‘Thank you’ to Waterford Heritage Trail volunteers

From left, Terry Bonnett, Richard Baranowski, Fred Mayo, and Andy Kooistra at the Waterford Heritage Trail cleanup.

Brenda Moser

Advocate Contributor

We're Canadian and the weather can't stop us when we're on a mission, so rain did not put a damper on the cleanup plans for the Waterford Heritage Trail.

On Saturday, April 25, volunteers gathered by the old Train Station with tools and garbage bags in hand, ready to tackle the task at hand... the annual Waterford Trail cleanup. With the help of volunteers ranging in age from high school students to volunteers in their 80s, they headed out to do a thorough cleaning.

"It's a great time and a nice grouping of people," said Andy Kooistra.

Waterford Lions had already cleared a roughly 2 km portion of the west end of the trail during their Earth Day cleanup, and their help was much appreciated - another group of dedicated volunteers always there to lend a hand when there is a need and a cause.

The Trail Association also did necessary small repairs and some pre-pruning of trees.

There are benches along the route, away from the water, for walkers or bikers using the trail, where one can sit, relax and enjoy Mother Nature. These areas are kept clear and accessible for everyone. Just think… not every town can boast of such a beautiful attraction to their town. Thank you hardly seems enough for all of the work that the volunteers do, not only on cleanup day, but all year long.

Organizers were very happy to see the turnout.

"We braved historical inclement weather to spruce up the trail," said Kooistra. "A special thank you to Richard Baronowski, Fred May, Bill Brunton, Cliff Lawrence and Doug MacKenzie and his Lions crew.

“We have been working on punching through to Hwy 24 for a couple of years, and on Friday night and Saturday morning Doug and his crew rented a bush-hog and cleared the area. It is now ready to be explored.

"Thanks to all who participated... the trail works because of people like you."

The Waterford Heritage Trail is a beautiful gem that has become a popular place for walkers and bikers alike and there is a good chance that you will meet many others doing the same. If you haven't yet visited the trail, make sure you add it to your list. There is ample parking by the Old Train Station with easy access to the trail. All that is asked is to leave the trail as clean as you found it and respect others.

Kooistra did mention, "The trail is kept fairly clean (by users) with very little litter thrown down." 

Be sure to follow them on their Facebook Page - Waterford Heritage Trail Association - or at waterfordheritagetrail@yahoo.ca New members and users are always welcome.