Autumn colours bring natural beauty to Shakespeare Pond

Longtime Shakespeare resident Andrew Weidner and his black Labrador retriever, Reggie, enjoy the beautiful autumn colours during a walk around Shakespeare Pond last week. Weidner, who has lived in the community for more than 30 years, says visitors never tire of the natural beauty surrounding the small North Easthope pond. Gary West photo

By Gary West

The beauty of autumn is on full display at Shakespeare Pond, where colourful trees and shrubs provide a picturesque backdrop for residents enjoying the fall weather.

Located north of Shakespeare on Perth Road 107, formerly known to longtime residents as the 20th Line, the pond is a popular destination for nature lovers, including longtime Shakespeare resident Andrew Weidner.

Weidner, who has lived in the community for more than 30 years, enjoys walking the trail around the pond almost every day with his black Labrador retriever, Reggie.

The pair were out enjoying the sunshine and colourful autumn scenery last week, taking advantage of the pleasant fall weather.

Reggie also enjoys taking a dip in the spring-fed pond, particularly during the warmer summer months.

For years, members of the Shakespeare Optimist Club have worked to maintain the walking trail around the pond, clearing brush and shrubs and building small bridges across wet and swampy areas to make the natural setting more accessible to visitors.

The club, along with the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority, has also worked to preserve the area's natural environment, protecting trees and providing habitat for birds and other wildlife.

For Weidner, the pond is one of the many things that make living in Shakespeare special, offering opportunities to enjoy the outdoors throughout the year, from walks and swimming in the warmer months to skating in the winter.