Revitalized Backus Education Centre re-opens

Several displays at the Backus Conservation Education Centre were revitalized as part of updates that included improved accessibility. The education centre is open to the public Wednesday to Sunday until Labour Day. (Jeff Helsdon Photo)

Jeff Helsdon, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A revitalized Backus Conservation Education Centre opened to the public on June 21.

Located at Backus Heritage Conservation Area outside Port Rowan, the education centre is the centrepiece of the Long Point Region Conservation Authority’s (LPRCA) environmental and outdoor education programs. It is also open to the public, featuring numerous displays showcasing the natural history of the Long Point area. Displays also outline the important role conservation groups have played in preserving the area’s habitat.

In a ceremony on June 17, a preview was held for donors and former board members.

“Our updated exhibits tell the story of the watershed’s journey —from early settlement and deforestation, which transformed Norfolk County into a sandplain, to the efforts of citizens and organizations who worked to restore and protect it,” said LPRCA board chair Dave Beres.

The education centre is also part of the outdoor education programs run by LPRCA. Danielle Kershaw, speaking on behalf of Haldimand-Norfolk MPP Bobbi Ann Brady, recalled how, as a student, she looked forward to the programs at Backus and the education centre.

Curator Sarah Pointer explained that fundraising for the revitalization began in 2017 but was halted by COVID-19. The centre has been closed since the Covid pandemic, except for its school programs. Parts of the education centre, such as the Carolinian Life Zone diorama inside the front door, which gives an insight into the wildlife and habitats of the area, and the display on duck hunting traditions, remain a main feature. Other parts are new additions.

In addition to the updates to the displays, accessibility upgrades were also completed.

Tom Haskett, a member of the original building committee, said Harry Barrett and Bill Courtnage, who were the drivers and co-chairs, would be thrilled with the updates.

“They would be not only happy but grateful the building is being uplifted and updated and the education of our youth have a place to see our waterfowling heritage, and then go outdoors and experience it,” he said.

One of the new exhibits was from Delta Waterfowl. Local Delta committee member Dave Kennedy pushed for a display from this waterfowl group.

“Backus is rich in duck-hunting heritage and other outdoor education,” he said.

For Ducks Unlimited, a donation left by the late Port Rowan resident and DU supporter Sylvia Brady was used to fund updates to the display. Joanne Barbazza, head of communications and outreach for DU in Ontario, said ensuring knowledge of the conservation work DU does is passed on to another generation, is essential.

“This area was important to Jim and Sylvia and their entire family,” she said. “It was important to preserve her legacy.”

Larry Chanda, a former LPRCA board chair and current member of the Ruffed Grouse Society’s local committee, said it was important the organization’s display be updated.

“It’s educational,” he said. “We have a lot of students who go through the Backus Education Centre. It focuses on knowledge of birds and animal in our area, the ruffed grouse being one.”

Tillsonburg resident Paul DeCloet, a former board chair and member of the original building committee, was pleased with the updates.

“It was exceptionally well designed,” he said. “So many years later, it still looks excellent.”

Haskett also pointed out that the update was funded through fundraising and grants and is not being paid for by taxpayers.

The education centre sees 2,000 school students pass through in a year outside of any tourists who visit.

“The education centre served its purpose and it will go on for a few generations,” Haskett said.

The Backus Education Centre will be open to the public until Labour Day, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday.

Those at the preview also received a preview of the Davidson decoy gallery, a new feature opening in the fall. Decoy donations are being sought for the gallery, and anyone interested can contact Pointer at 519-586-2201.