All GRCA nature centres to close due to COVID-19

All March break camps and activities cancelled

Effective Monday, March 16, the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is closing all of its nature centres to the public and cancelling all March Break Camps in light of recent developments in Ontario due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Any previously scheduled events, like birthday parties, are also cancelled.

Following the announcement from the provincial government late yesterday afternoon that all schools will be closed until April 5, the GRCA is making these changes out of an abundance of caution. Nature Centres will also remain closed until April 5, at which time the GRCA will re-evaluate and follow governmental direction.

All those impacted by these cancellations are already being contacted directly, and parents will be given full refunds.

“We recognize that these closures impact parents and families, and regret that this decision may cause additional hardship in an already stressful time,” says Lisa Stocco, Manager of Communications. “This decision was not taken lightly. We believe it is in the best interest of both the children and families we serve, and our staff. In addition, given the rapidly evolving situation, we wanted to give parents as much notice as possible so that they can begin to make alternate arrangements for their children.”

The GRCA makes the health and safety of its visitors and staff its highest priority. We will continue to stay informed of the latest information through Health Canada, the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, as well as our local public health units.

For more information about COVID-19 we are sharing the following online resources:

• Health Canada
• Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care
• Region of WaterlooPublic Health
• Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health
• Brant County Health Unit
• Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit

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Media contacts:

Lisa Stocco, GRCA Manager of Communications
Phone 519-621-2763 x2316  |  Email lstocco@grandriver.ca