MANOTICK, June 15, 2021 – Accessibility and conservation advocates are teaming up to transform Baxter Conservation Area into the most accessible nature destination in Eastern Ontario – but they need your help. 

The Nature For All committee is working to upgrade Baxter’s bridges, boardwalks, trails and facilities to the gold standard of accessibility to make the park as inclusive as possible to all ages and abilities. 

Truly accessible natural areas are few and far between, which leaves people with disabilities or mobility concerns stuck on the sidelines. Nature For All believes every person should be able to enjoy the many physical and emotional benefits of the great outdoors without worrying about safety or logistics.

But to make this dream a reality, they need individuals, businesses and charitable partners to support the project.

Nature For All is now seeking funding partners and donations for Phase 1, which requires $750,000 to build a brand new, fully accessible bridge across Baxter’s marshlands – complete with several education platforms overlooking the water. 

Every donation, from $5 to $500,000, helps bring accessible wilderness one step closer to our friends, family and neighbours with disabilities and mobility concerns. 

And the timing is right: the current bridge has reached the end of its life cycle and was closed as a safety precaution in 2019. Replacing it presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to make Baxter’s infrastructure as inclusive as possible. The new bridge will be wide enough for two people in wheelchairs to pass safely and easily. Two large viewing platforms will facilitate better and more inclusive outdoor education programs, helping students with special needs get up close and personal with the natural world. 

Nature For All’s fundraising efforts are being spearheaded by the Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation, the charitable partner of Rideau Valley Conservation Authority which owns Baxter Conservation Area. The Foundation is a registered charity that can offer custom corporate sponsorship agreements and donor packages, with benefits to donor organizations such as media recognition, team building opportunities, naming rights and on-site signage.

To learn more about Nature For All or to make a donation visit www.rvcf.ca/nature-for-all. To discuss corporate sponsorship packages and partnerships contactThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

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