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Woodland Shelter

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Woodland Refection Shelter pavilion is vision turned into reality

Volunteers put the 'Last Spike' or last nail into the construction of the new Woodland Reflection Shelter pavilion along the South Huron Trail.

The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation had a dream. The dream was to create a special place ... a building ... a pavilion ... a shelter from wind, rain, snow, or sun ... a place to enjoy nature, reflect, and remember loved ones. The building was to be called the Woodland Reflection Shelter and the dream was to build it along the South Huron Trail, at the Commemorative Woods where trees are planted in the memory of loved ones.

This dream is now reality, thanks to the volunteers, businesses, donors, students, teachers, and generous watershed residents. The shelter has been built. We thank you for your support which honoured loved ones and created this amazing place.

You left a local legacy, you helped our tree grow!

Woodland Reflection Shelter

For almost five decades, the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation has been raising funds for conservation, preservation and protection of the unique natural landscapes of the Ausable River, Bayfield River and Parkhill Creek watersheds.

Included in this are commemorative woodlands in which families and individuals have left a legacy in memory of a loved-one who is gone but not forgotten. At the Morrison Dam Conservation Area, along the South Huron Trail, plans for the ever-expanding commemorative woods program included a reflection shelter which now overlooks the tree plantings. It features a special oak-tree-inspired wall to recognize donors and to commemorate loved-ones on individual oak leaf plaques. The metal tree sculpture and leaves were designed and were produced by local high school students. There is a seating area for visitors who wish to spend some time in the tranquil surroundings.

Woodland Reflection Shelter Tree

Thank you for having helped to create this unique community structure. The dividing wall in the shelter features a metal sculpture of an oak tree which symbolizes strength and long life: it includes leaves and plaques to recognize memorials and donors.  Also incorporated into the design is a walkway and patio with engraved pavers.

Donors have names recorded on leaves, stones, or benches.  Donors have participated with in-kind construction and material donations and cash donations at various levels .

Thanks to you all.

Download Woodland Reflection Shelter brochure now to find out about how the community made this project happen – and enjoy the Woodland Reflection Shelter today!