After several months of legwork, the Town of Greater Napanee is now entrusted with the long-term care of the Helen Hutchison Nature Reserve.
The title transfer took place earlier this month, completing many months of work by a variety of people, including a committed clean-up crew.
The property, located on the banks of the Napanee River, directly across from King Street Park, is Ecological Gift number ON872. Being an Ecological Gift means that any changes to the property that are not in the accepted Stewardship Plan, have to be approved by Environment and Climate Change Canada, another layer of protection for nature.
Helen Hutchison was an engaged member of the Napanee community for many, many years. Among her contributions, she saved the Allan Macpherson House from destruction and was vital to the creation of the Lennox & Addington Community Museum and Archives. She was a ‘most active and successful’ volunteer, wrote Larry Davy in a letter to the Napanee Beaver in 2012, on the occasion of what would have been her 100th birthday. His letter concluded, ‘We should remember her and all who volunteer in the common good.’
Davy’s wish has been fulfilled with his donation of his waterfront property to the Town.
“I am happy to see this property protected in the name of a person who would really appreciate setting aside a place for nature along the river,” said Davey. “I hope that my gift will stimulate the town to give further thought to protecting more of the Napanee River. It is a wonderful area.”
Those responsible for the transfer thank all those who donated to the Small Change Fund to cover the survey, appraisal, legal, and other costs to make this donation possible and to everyone who helped in so many different ways to make this nature reserve possible. Special thanks to lead donors Maple Cross and Lafarge.
In all, over 30 donors made the protection of this shoreline site possible. Thank you to everyone of you. And, of course, thank you to Larry Davy, for his vision and his commitment.
You have all done something important and permanent for nature. Please take a moment to celebrate.
With my best regards,
Vicki Schmolka