Question 1

Do you have accessible trails?

Accepted Answer

We do! We offer accessible trails at:

Bowmanville Westside Marshes Conservation Area(https://www.cloca.com/bowmanville-westside)
Connector to paved Waterfront Trail (https://waterfronttrail.org/)(200m) surface: crushed granular

Heber Down Conservation Area (https://www.cloca.com/heber-down)
Maple Leaf Trail (750 m) surface: crushed granular
Iroquois Trail (https://www.whitby.ca/en/play/trails.aspx)(Town of Whitby, 2.3 km) surface: asphalt
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Lynde Shores Conservation Area(https://www.cloca.com/lynde-shores)
Waterfront Trail (https://waterfronttrail.org/)(3.1 km) surface: asphalt
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Purple Woods Conservation Area(https://www.cloca.com/purple-woods)
Discovery Trail (900 m) surface: crushed granular, rolling terrain though slopes do not exceed 8%

Question 2

Is camping, canoe rentals, or winter activity rentals offered at any Conservation Areas?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately we do not offer camping or canoe rentals at any of our Conservation Areas; however, Darlington Provincial Park (https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/darlington)offers seasonal camping and canoe rentals.

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are permitted in all of our conservation areas, pending conditions, however, there are no equipment rentals available.  If you are interested in trying out snowshoeing, we do host an annual event in February where we invite the public to enjoy this winter activity at Enniskillen Conservation Area.

Question 3

Is fishing allowed in the Conservation Areas?

Accepted Answer

Fishing is permitted at Enniskillen Conservation Area (https://www.cloca.com/enniskillen)and Heber Down Conservation Area.(https://www.cloca.com/heber-down) Anglers are asked to stay on the designated trails and carry out garbage. Anglers should be aware that while fishing is permitted, it is still regulated (https://www.ontario.ca/page/fisheries-management-zone-17-fmz-17)through the Province of Ontario, which includes the possession of a valid fishing license and adherence to provincial catch limits.  Safe consumption guidelines can be found at ontario.ca/fishguide.(https://www.ontario.ca/page/guide-eating-ontario-fish)

Question 4

May I take photos in the Conservation Areas?

Accepted Answer

We encourage photography for personal enjoyment in all our conservation areas.  Wildlife and landscape photography can be entered into our photo contest.  In accordance with Ontario Regulation 688/21, we do charge a fee (https://www.cloca.com/photography-permits)for professional photographers who are using the Conservation Areas to do business.

Question 5

Where can I submit my photos for CLOCA to use?

Accepted Answer

Show us what you've seen on your Conservation Area adventures! We're looking for excellent, calendar-worthy photos of landscapes, close-ups, even selfies taken in our Conservation Areas in all seasons!
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By submitting your photo(s) you are permitting CLOCA to use them on their Instagram and/or Facebook account, website, Conservation Area Brochure, and other online and printed material.
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​Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/centrallakeontarioconservation/)and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/CentralLakeOntarioConservation)to catch your contributions!

Question 6

Why aren't there more garbage cans in the Conservation Areas?

Accepted Answer

Garbage receptacles in conservation areas are an attractant for our wildlife. Raccoons, skunks, and flying insects are all drawn to garbage, and can create a public safety issue for visitors.  Wildlife and garbage generally results in garbage being spread over a large area, and possible health impacts to wildlife.

Garbage is expensive!  Staff time and equipment is required to collect and transport garbage along with disposal fees.  Recovering the costs related to garbage receptacles would impact the parking fees and we make every effort to keep parking fees low so we can continue to offer affordable visits to our Conservation Areas.

Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority does not sell or supply any products or materials that would generate garbage, such as drinks and snacks. Any garbage at the Conservation Areas has been brought in by visitors.  We think it is reasonable that visitors who bring in garbage can take the garbage home for recycling and disposal.  Staff hope that the "carry in, carry out" policy for garbage actually invokes thought about the waste we generate and encourages waste reduction and recycling at home.

Question 7

How do I apply for a Sensitive Areas Permit?

Accepted Answer

Fill out the Application to Access Sensitive Areas (https://www.cloca.com/_files/ugd/b3995f_d37eab8141dc4d6f9b3804978b9b5255.pdf)and submit by email or in person to Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority.

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