Hamilton’s conservation areas are now closed to the public
- Michael Kras
- 25 Mar 2020
Leisurely hikes during quarantine are officially off the table, as the Hamilton Conservation Authority has immediately, temporarily closed all local conservation areas from public access during COVID-19.
The closure comes as a result of Premier Doug Ford’s order that all non-essential business operations temporarily halt in an effort to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.
As of today, Wednesday March 25th, all individuals – including membership passholders – who enter the conservation areas will be considered trespassers. City officials and parking enforcement will be regularly patrolling the areas and their parking lots.
https://twitter.com/Hamilton_CA/status/1242471382023376897
Many Hamiltonians cooped up inside their houses for the foreseeable future have reacted with sadness to the news; especially since, a mere few days ago, hiking was considered one of the few acceptable activities to continue pursuing during COVID-19.
However, it always came with caveats: health officials discouraged hikers gathering together in large groups, and encouraged at least two metres of distance between people on the trails to limit the chance of exposure to or transmission of the virus.
People just didn’t take those warnings seriously enough. Many Hamilton trails were still regularly packed with people in the last few days, including big groups, who ignored urgings to maintain distance and continued to put themselves at risk by touching handrails and other surfaces.
Though, while Hamilton’s conservation areas will remain closed to the public until further notice, locals can still get some time in the fresh air and improving weather by walking in their neighbourhood or at city parks. Recommendations regarding social distancing still apply.
Lead image courtesy of @Hamilton_CA
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