CORRECTION: GRCA reducing operations to essential services until April 7 (inclusive)

This news release previously indicated April 8 (inclusive) and has been corrected below to indicate April 7 (inclusive).

Further to the direction from the provincial government on March 23, the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is scaling back operations to essential services only, effective today, March 24, 2020. This reduction in operations will be in effect for 14 days, until April 7, 2020 (inclusive), with the possibility of an extension as the situation evolves.

Reduced operations

This reduction in operations and closures to the public apply to all GRCA work locations including the Administration Centre, Grand River Parks, nature centres, the Burford Tree Nursery, as well as all GRCA properties, facilities, trails and passive use conservation areas.

For the duration of this time period, there will not be any regular maintenance nor hazard management performed on GRCA properties. Parking lots in GRCA passive use areas are closed and no pedestrian traffic will be permitted. The GRCA takes the safety of staff and members of the public very seriously. Those who do not abide by this closure and enter will be trespassing.

Most GRCA staff are working remotely, and will continue to serve the community as best possible over the phone, by email and through our online permit application system.

GRCA Flood Forecasting and Warning System

The GRCA’s flood forecasting and warning system will continue without interruption. The GRCA will continue to work with municipal first responders to help protect the lives and property of watershed residents in the event of flooding.

“The health and safety of our staff, visitors and watershed residents remains our highest priority,” says Lisa Stocco, Manager of Communications. “This was a difficult decision. We are asking the public to respect the trail and property closures, and thank them for doing their part to stop the spread of this virus.”

The GRCA will continue to monitor developments as well as provincial and local public health recommendations and reassess as needed.

For updates on GRCA programs and services affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, visit www.grandriver.ca/COVID19 and www.grandriver.ca/COVID19-FAQ.

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