The Town of Saugeen Shores says it has acquired what it calls significant woodlands.
Council approved the approximately 26-hectare land transfer west of the Summerside subdivision at Monday night’s meeting.
According to a release from the Town, that brings the total amount of municipally protected forest in the area to more than 80 hectares. The Town says by doing this, it is “fulfilling its mandate to maintain its natural assets.”
The Town says the acquisition comes from the subdivision process, where the Town has progressively acquired the lands from the developer, at no cost to the municipality.
It explains, part of the developer’s agreement with the Town was to install a pond over a portion of the land marked as Part 3, 3R-9253, west of the Nipissing Ridge.
This pond was created to accommodate stormwater from the subdivision. The Town has now assumed ownership of the pond as well as the long-term stewardship of the woods.
Mayor Luke Charbonneau says, “I am proud that we have permanently protected this significant woodland in our community,” adding, “Our work with the Summerside developer demonstrates the Town’s commitment to managing our growth in a way that safeguards our collective, natural heritage.”
The Town says it is committed to maintaining the woods, while providing access to nature lovers.
