New parking, signage improve access to Poole Family Nature Sanctuary near Carleton Place

A $17,400 Capital Grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation has funded new parking and signage at the Poole Family Nature Sanctuary, with the aim of improving safety and access at the Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust property west of Carleton Place.

Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston MPP John Jordan visited the site on Friday, Nov. 14 to mark the completion of the work, which includes an entrance way, culvert and a parking area for 10 vehicles. The upgrades replace unsafe roadside parking along Drummond Concession Road 11 and add a new sign at the trailhead.

“Once again, Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust is to be commended for ensuring our residents can safely access the unparalleled beauty of our riding,” Jordan said in a statement. “Through OTF, our government continues to support your important role in understanding and appreciating the impact of our relationship with nature.”

The sanctuary features about two kilometres of interpretive trails that run through a variety of natural landscapes. The land trust says in a media release that the improved access could increase annual visits from roughly 250 to more than 1,000 in the first year, with potential to reach more than 2,000 as awareness grows.

“With safe and reliable parking now in place, we’re thrilled to make Poole Family Nature Sanctuary more accessible to the community,” said Stacie Lloyd, the land trust’s executive director. “Improved access means more people can discover this special place and the value of protecting natural spaces close to home.”

The land trust acknowledged several local supporters, including Lanark County, the Municipality of Mississippi Mills, Drummond North Elmsley Township, Mississippi Valley Field Naturalists and the Perth & District Community Foundation. It also thanked the Poole (White) family, who donated the property in 2018.