On Friday, June 16, Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) unveiled Tales on the Trail, an interactive experience that promotes literacy and recreation in nature at Island Lake and Terra Cotta Conservation Areas. This latest park feature was introduced alongside project partners Orangeville Public Library, Halton Hills Public Library, Friends of Island Lake and the Women’s Institute.
“We’re really excited to add the Tales on the Trail permanent installation to our parks,” said Terri LeRoux, Director of Parks, Lands and Community Engagement at CVC. “It will add value for our visitors as we strive to connect communities with nature through literacy and art.”
Tales on the Trail supports CVC’s commitment to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in its parks through stories that share different themes and experiences, cultural representation and uplifting messages from a variety of authors. It will also provide opportunities for community members to share creative content.
CVC pursued the idea of a permanent installation after hosting a storybook walk at Terra Cotta Conservation Area in partnership with Brampton Public Library, during the fall of 2021. In spring 2022, CVC also ran a pilot project at Maple Syrup in the Park at Island Lake Conservation Area in partnership with Orangeville Public Library. Positive visitors feedback prompted CVC to commit to a permanent installation that would enhance the overall visitor experience at each location.
“We are delighted to be part of the Tales on the Trail initiative and share it with the community,” says Beverley King, Acting Chief Librarian and CEO of the Halton Hills Public Library. “It’s a wonderful adventure that celebrates the joy of reading, the wonders of the natural world and the power of community connection.”
Tales on the Trail will provide a unique recreation opportunity and connect park visitors to local authors showcased through the feature at the parks. The installation will also provide additional opportunities for art installations and for community members to share creative content.
“Orangeville Public Library is dedicated to fostering literacy in all its forms,” said Darla Fraser, CEO. “Tales on the Trail brings physical activity and literacy together to build community, connect people, and inspire learning. It provides families with the opportunity to get outside to learn about nature and enjoy a fun reading activity.”
The Friends of Island Lake and the Women’s Institute also supported the project through a $2,500 donation. The installation at Island Lake Conservation Area is located by the Natural Playground, while the installation at Terra Cotta Conservation Area is located along the Wetland Trail. Stories will be displayed in one-month intervals, with the possibility for additional presentations of literature or art.
Photo:
Caption: Representatives from partner organizations were onsite for the Tales on the Trail unveiling at Island Lake Conservation Area: Credit Valley Conservation, Orangeville Public Library, Halton Hills Public Library, Friends of Island Lake, Women’s Institute and Friends of Orangeville Public Library.
Link: https://files.cvc.ca/cvc/uploads/2023/06/tales-on-the-trails-88-scaled.jpg
photo:
Caption: Representatives from the partner organization were onsite for the Tales on the Trail unveiling at Terra Cotta Conservation Area: Credit Valley Conservation, Halton Hills Public Library and Orangeville Public Library.
Link: https://files.cvc.ca/cvc/uploads/2023/06/IMG_0162.jpg
About Credit Valley Conservation
Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) is a local conservation authority established by the Ontario government in 1954 to protect, restore and enhance the natural environment of the Credit River watershed. That watershed is the area of land where all rainfall, snowmelt and runoff drains (“sheds”) into lands and waters flowing into the Credit River. CVC creates connections between people and nature, knowledge and action. It inspires a deep appreciation for the role of nature in keeping people connected, healthy and happy. CVC is a member of Conservation Ontario.
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Media Contact:
Jamie Williams
Specialist, Marketing & Communications
Credit Valley Conservation
C: 905-431-5772
Email