Preserve must be respected, once open

Editor:
The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is writing with regard to the Creemore Nature Preserve. This treasured 204-acre property was donated to NCC in 1996 by the Mingay family. While NCC properties are privately owned, visitors are normally welcome to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational amenities of the lands in a respectful manner. We wish to remind your readers that the property is closed to all public access until further notice, owing to the current COVID-19 situation. 
We also seek assistance from your readers to help address a troubling new issue at the Creemore Nature Preserve – numerous pet waste bags are being left by visitors within the NCC property and on adjacent properties. The waste litters the area, harms wildlife habitat and creates an unsanitary mess for NCC and its neighbours to clean up. The Nature Preserve operates on a carry-in/carry-out basis, so all pet waste should be bagged, brought home, and disposed of in the garbage. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, for the safety of visitors and wildlife. NCC staff will post signs at the trailheads to remind our visitors of these protocols, and will closely monitor the situation. 
Thank you to our supporters and visitors for helping NCC care for the Creemore Nature Preserve. Let’s all look forward to reconnecting with nature soon!
Rob McRae, Program Director
Nature Conservancy of Canada