Wainfleet Conservation Areas Master Plan

WAINFLEET CONSERVATION AREAS MASTER PLAN
NIAGARA PENINSULA CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
DRAFT

Project Team
Pierre Chauvin, MA, MCIP, RPP, MHBC Planning – Project Lead
Mitchell Avis, MSc, MCIP, RPP, MHBC Planning
Andrea Sinclair, MUDS, MCIP, RPP, MHBC Planning
Greg Johnstone, BLA, OALA, CSLA, MHBC Planning
Nathan Zrini, BAA, MHBC Planning
Jon Linton, TCI Consulting
Dr. Bronwynne Wilton, PhD, Synthesis (Facilitator)
Acknowledgments
The project team would like to thank the contributions from the following Staff
and members of the Steering Committee:
Mark Brickell, NPCA
Gregg Furtney, NPCA
Adam Christie, NPCA
Mayor April Jeffs, Township of Wainfleet
Michael Smith, Township of Wainfleet
Richard Nan, Township of Wainfleet
Sarah Ivins, Township of Wainfleet
Joan Davison, Resident
Anne McKibbon, Resident

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) owns and operates numerous properties/conservation area in
Niagara Region and portions of the City of Hamilton. Five of these properties are located within the Township of Wain-
fleet – four of which are located adjacent to Lake Erie and Lakeshore Road. MacNaughton Hermsen Britton Clarkson
Planning Limited (MHBC) and TCI Management Consultants (TCI) were retained by the NPCA to prepare Master Plans
for the following properties:
1. Long Beach Conservation Area;
2. ‘Lakewood’Property (former Easter Seals Camp);
3. Morgan’s Point Conservation Area; and the
4. Wainfleet Wetlands/Quarry.
The purpose of these Master Plans is to prepare a long-term plan to guide the development and operation of the four
NPCA owned properties that respects the natural heritage of the sites, provides recreational opportunities for the pub-
lic, protects the natural resources of Lake Eire and works towards achieving a self-sustaining operating model.
The Master Plans were supported by a comprehensive public consultation program, which included stakeholder and
public meetings, online and paper surveys. A steering committee was also formed comprised of Conservation Author-
ity and Township staff, the Mayor of Wainfleet, the project team and two members of the public. More detailed results
of this consultation are included within this Master Plan.
Based on the public input and background review conducted through the Master Plan process, four general areas of
improvement emerged for each property:
1. Branding & Image;
2. Physical Improvements;
3. Natural Improvements; and
4. Recreation

As a result, over 50 recommendations have been provided under these four general areas of improvement for each of the four
properties included within this Master Plan. Implementation of the recommendations is proposed to be carried out by establish-
ing short (2-5 years) term; medium term (5-10 years) and long term (10+ years) goals. In addition, several strategic actions are also
recommended, which are intended to be general recommendations that apply to all four properties. Cost estimates to implement
the Master Plans at each property are also provided and range between 1.9 Million to 3.6 Million per property:
A Market, Financial and Economic Impact Analysis accompanies this Master Plan and is included as an Appendix. This report as-
sesses the market context within which these Master Plans will take place and provides a financial analysis of the feasibility and
sustainability of the various Master Plans. Included in this analysis is an overview of the capital and operating cost implications of
the Master Plan proposals for each property. Two options are presented including a‘base case’scenario, which shows a deficit of
$273,000 in a typical year of operation, and a‘break even’scenario, which shows a small surplus in a typical year of operation.
Each of the four NPCA owned properties included in this Master Plan are unique. Given the unique character of each property, the
proposed uses and management of each property is different based on different themes/programming objectives. As a result, the
level of proposed activity and use varies by property. Together, the four properties offer great opportunity to benefit the immedi-
ate community, the Region and the NPCA.

1. Introduction 5. Strategic Actions2. Context 3. Planning Context 4. Consultation 6. Long Beach
Conservation Area
TABLE OF CONTENTS

7.“Lakewood”
Property
8. Morgan’s Point 9. Wainfleet Wetlands
and Quarry
10. Economic Impact 11. Conclusions

1
INTRODUCTION
The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) was established in 1959 and
encompasses the entire Niagara Region and portions of the City of Hamilton and
Haldimand County. The legislative mandate of the NPCA, as set out in the Conservation
Authorities Act, is to establish and undertake programs designed to further the
conservation, restoration, development and management of natural resources.
The NPCA owns and operates numerous properties/conservation areas in Niagara Region.
Five of these properties are located within the Township of Wainfleet – four of which are
located adjacent to Lake Erie and Lakeshore Road and subject to this Master Plan. Two of the
four properties have been in the NPCA’s ownership for decades while the other properties
are relatively recent acquisitions. Master Plans were completed in 1993 for the Wainfleet
WetlandsandLongBeachConservationAreas.Theremainingtwopropertieshavenevergone
throughaMasterPlanprocess.Eachpropertyisuniqueanddifferentintermsofuse,physical
environment and natural environment. The following Master Plans have been developed in
consultationwithNPCAstafftheSteeringCommitteeaswellfrominputreceivedfromthepublic.
In order to assist with the preparation of the Master Plans, the NPCA retained MacNaughton
Hermsen Britton Clarkson Planning Limited (MHBC) and TCI Management Consultants
(TCI). The Master Plans are intended to provide a long term framework for the use and
management of the four conservation areas owned by the NPCA and located within
the Township of Wainfleet: Long Beach Conservation Area; “Lakewood” (former Easter
Seals) Property; Morgan’s Point Conservation Area; and Wainfleet Wetlands/Quarry.

The purpose of this Master Plan is to prepare a long-term
plantoguidethedevelopmentandoperationoffourNPCA
owned properties along the Lake Erie shoreline within the
Township of Wainfleet, that respects the natural heritage
of the sites, provides recreational opportunities for the
public, protects the natural resources of Lake Erie, and
workstowardsachievingaself-sustainingoperatingmodel.
It is important to note that this Master Plan does not
include a comprehensive inventory or analysis of the
natural heritage features on each site. Further study will
be required to evaluate the natural heritage features on
each property and the potential impacts or mitigating
measures associated with the implementation of
some of the recommendations of this Master Plan. The
recommendations of this Master Plan are still subject
to final ecological and water resource assessments.
The following objectives were established by the
NPCA in order to achieve the purpose of the study:
1. Determine the future direction for the development and
operation of the four NPCA properties and provide a five-year
implementation plan and a ten-year development plan for the
operation of these sites, individually and linked together. The
sites need to complement each other.
2. Outline appropriate phases to be implemented to achieve
optimum development.
3. Outline the operational costs and capital cost estimates to
implement the 5 and 10 year plan.
4. Identify funding sources.
Purpose and Objectives

Master Plan Process
A Master Plan is a comprehensive document , long-range in its view, that is intended to guide the use and development of the subject
properties for the planning horizon. It is intended to be a general plan for the future use of the properties - a blueprint for the future.
A Master Plan is a reflection of the community’s vision for the future and therefore, community input is an essential component of the
Master Planning process to ensure the Plan reflects the opinions of the community.
This Master Plan process was undertaken in three phases:
PHASE 1: Background Research/Data Collection/Market Analysis
The first phase consisted of a comprehensive review of all
relevant background materials and site visits of the 4 properties.
An online survey was also used to obtain public input. In addi-
tion, an open house was conducted with stakeholders and the
public.
PHASE 2: Develop Concepts for Each Property
The second phase involved the creation of development
concepts for each property based on input received from Phase
1. The concepts were reviewed with NPCA staff, the Steering
Committee and presented at a public meeting for feedback
and further input.
PHASE 3: Prepare Master Plan and Market Analysis
The third phase involved the preparation of the Master Plan
based on input from staff, the Steering Committee and the
public. The Master Plan identifies a preferred option for each
property and prioritizes implementation of the actions/recom-
mendations for each site. A Market/Financial Analysis was
also completed to assess the financial and economic impact of
the Master Plans.
1
2
3
AUGUST 2016
MHBC and TCI
retained by NPCA.
Startup Meeting and
initial site visits.

Project Timeline
AUGUST 2016
Survey Launch.
OCTOBER 2016
Site visits and photo
documentation.
SEPT-OCT 2016
Background Review.
NOVEMBER 2016
Final surveys collected.
DEC 2016 / JAN 2017
Prepare Master Plans
for each property.
Present draft
concepts to Steering
Committee.
FEBRUARY 2017
Present draft Master
Plans at public meeting
in Wainfleet, ON.
MARCH 2017
Prepare Draft Master
Plan Document.
APRIL 2017
Steering Committee
Meeting. Public
Meeting to present
draft Master Plan.
END OF APRIL /
EARLY MAY 2017
Finalize Master Plan.
NOVEMBER 2016
Facilitated Public and
Stakeholder meeting.
JUNE 2017
Approval of Master
Plan by NPCA Board.

LAKESHORE ROAD
FEEDER ROAD WEST
QUARRIE
ROAD
RATHFONROAD
GOLF
COURSEROAD
BURNABYROAD
GORD HARRY
CONSERVATION TRAIL
DIXIEROAD
RATTLERROAD
WILSONROAD
DIXIEROAD
MALOWANY
ROAD
GARRINGER ROADABBEY ROAD
STATIONROAD
SIDEROAD20
BRAWNROAD
PETERSONROAD
BRAWNROAD
DALEYDITCHROAD
CONCESSION 1 ROAD
MINORROAD
BURKETTROAD
BESSEYROAD
ERIEPEATROAD
LAKESHORE ROAD
P
WAINFLEET
WETLANDS
MORGAN‛S
POINT
LAKEWOOD
3
3
3
3
3
LONG
BEACH
PORT
COLBORNE
COUNTRY
CLUB
LAKE ERIE
STATION ROAD
NATURALIZATION PARK
28
WAINFLEET

2
CONTEXT
The four properties included in this Master Plan are located
within the Township of Wainfleet. The Township of Wainfleet
is a rural municipality located in Niagara Region on the
northern shores of Lake Erie. In 2016, the population of the
Township of Wainfleet grew to 6,372 people, a reversal on the
population decline experienced between 2006 and 2011.

The Township is a relatively small municipality that
is within driving distance to several large urban
centres within the Golden Horseshoe. The Lake Erie
shoreline is a prominent feature in the Township
and is a significant tourist attraction. The Township
has a high proportion of seasonal households
(cottages). In fact, some of the recent population
growth may have resulted from the conversion
of seasonal cottages to permanent residences.
The Township of Wainfleet is bordered by the City of
Port Colborne to the east (population: 18,306), City
of Welland to the east (population: 52,293), Town of
Pelham to the north (population: 17,110), Township
of West Lincoln to the north (population: 14,500),
County of Haldimand to the west (population:
45,608) and Lake Erie to the South. The Township
of Wainfleet is conveniently located approximately
45 kilometres (35 minutes by car) to the Peace
Bridge; the gateway to the United States of America.
The four properties that are the subject of this
Master Plan are located relatively close to each
other in the Township. All properties are directly
connected by Lakeshore Road and indirectly
by the Gord Harry Conservation Trail, a rail
trail owned by the NPCA that spans the entire
length of the Township from east to west. The
following is a brief summary of the four properties.
Buffalo, NY
Niagara Falls, ON
Hamilton
Port Colborne
Welland
St. Catharines
Toronto
Wainfleet
Region of
Niagara
U.S.A
Lake Ontario
Lake Erie 30 Minutes
60 Minutes
120 Minutes
LOCATION OF WAINFLEET WITHIN THE BROADER REGIONAL CONTEXT

LAKESHORE ROAD
LAKE ERIE
BURKETTRD
LAKESHORE RD
LAKE ERIE
TRAVERRD
LONG BEACH CONSERVATION AREA
The NPCA has owned and operated the Long Beach Conservation
Area since 1961. The Conservation Area is 56 ha (139 acres) in
size and contains a seasonal campground with 225 serviced and
unserviced campsites as well as a day-use park which is open from
Victoria Day until Labour Day. Access to the property is controlled
by a staffed gate/gatehouse. The property is bisected by Lakeshore
Road and has beach access to Lake Erie. An existing boat launch
on Lake Erie is also available at this site. A significant portion of the
lands on the north side of Lakeshore Road is treed. For more details
on the Long Beach Conservation Area, see Section 6 of this report.
LAKEWOOD (FORMER EASTER SEALS) PROPERTY
This property was purchased in 2014 by the NPCA from the former
EasterSealsCamp.Forthepurposeofthisreportthispropertyisreferred
to as the ‘Lakewood property”. The property is 6 hectares (15 acres) in
size and has approximately 159 metres (521 feet) of beach access. The
lands are currently vacant/partially vegetated with no infrastructure or
structures. The lands have access to, and frontage on, Lakeshore Road.
For more details on the Lakewood Property, see Section 7 of this report.

Figure 2.3 - Aerial with Red Out-
line Wainfleet Wetlands
GORD HARRY
CONSERVATION TRAIL
LAKE ERIE
LAKE ERIE
GORD HARRY
CONSERVATION TRAIL
QUARRIERD
CEMENTRD
BESSEYRD
LAKESHORE RD W
PORT COLBORNE
LAKESHORE RD W
1:1000
MORGAN‛SPOINTROAD
LAKEERIE
MORGAN’S POINT CONSERVATION AREA
Morgan’s Point Conservation Area is 3.9 hectares (9.6 acres) in size and
contains an existing parking lot, washroom facility, playground and a
partial boardwalk. The property was transferred to the NPCA from the
Township in 2001. A significant portion of the property consists of a
hardwood forest with several informal trails. The gates to the property
are opened and closed daily. The property is located along the Lake
Erie shoreline, and given its location on the shoreline offers exceptional
views of the lake. Unlike the other shoreline properties owned by the
NPCA, the beach predominately consists of bedrock. For more details
on the Morgan’s Point Conservation Area, see Section 8 of this report.
WAINFLEET WETLANDS/QUARRY
The Wainfleet Wetland/Quarry property was purchased by
the NPCA in 1978. Prior to NPCA’s purchase, the property
was operated as a clay and limestone quarry until it ceased
operation in the 1960’s. The property is 185 hectares (458 acres)
in size and is largely comprised of naturalized areas. The Wainfleet
Wetlands/Quarry property is located immediately south of,
and abutting, the Gord Harry Trail, which is a significant trail
corridor owned/managed by the NPCA and spans the entire
width of the Township from east to west. For more details on
the Wainfleet Wetlands/Quarry, see Section 9 of this report.

3
PLANNING CONTEXT
The following provides a brief review of some of the relevant planning documents that
helps inform/support the Master Plan.
NIAGARA PENINSULA CONSERVATION AUTHORITY STRATEGIC PLAN
The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) Strategic Plan 2014-2017
outlines their strategic direction over the four year period. The Strategic Plan
identifies the need for sustainable infrastructure management as a key challenge.
This Master Plan supports the NPCA Strategic Plan by proposing the sustainable
management of four NPCA-owned properties in Wainfleet.
The NPCA’s mission is
“to manage our watershed’s natural resources by balancing environmental,
community, and economic needs”.
Their vision is
“balancing conservation and sustainable development for future generations
by engaging landowners, stakeholders and communities through
collaboration”.

NIAGARA REGION OFFICIAL PLAN
The Niagara Region Official Plan titled ‘Imagine Niagara’
presents a 20-year vision to guide the physical, economic
and social development of the Region. The Official Plan
recognizes the importance of tourism as part of the
economic base in the Region and acknowledges the excellent
beaches, camping facilities, amusement areas, and summer
cottages along the Lake Erie shoreline. The Official Plan also
recognizes the importance of a healthy natural environment.
This Master Plan is consistent with the Region’s direction to
encourage tourism activities along the Lake Erie shoreline
while also promoting a healthy natural environment.
NIAGARA LAKEFRONT ENHANCEMENT STRATEGY
The Niagara Lakefront Enhancement Strategy was prepared
in 2014. The purpose of the Enhancement Strategy is
to guide a range of intergovernmental partnerships to
enhance public access to, and experiences of, the shorelines
of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie in the Niagara Region. The
Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority is identified
as a partner to implement the Strategy. Several potential
strategies are identified in the document, which is intended
to provide partners with ideas on the types of lakefront
enhancement strategies that align with the vision, goals
and objectives of the Lakefront Enhancement Strategy.
The Master Plans developed for the four NPCA owned
properties advances several strategies identified
within the Lakefront Enhancement Strategy including:
• Enhancing and expanding an existing lakefront asset
• Creating a new lakefront destination/attraction
• Improving the trail network
• Providing lakefront access and trail way-finding and signage
WAINFLEET OFFICIAL PLAN
The Wainfleet Official Plan is a municipal policy document
that states the local Council’s vision for the Township over a
20-year planning horizon. The Township’s vision includes that:
“Wainfleet residents and visitors enjoy its natural
environment amenities, and appreciate the outdoor
recreational activities it offers. Its diverse natural
heritage system, wildlife, beaches and shoreline
will be respected, protected and enhanced. Access,
accessibility, and public amenities will be improved so
thatmanywillappreciatetheTownship’snaturalbeauty.”
The Official Plan aims to protect significant natural
heritage features and functions for their ecological
benefit, contribution to human health, and to preserve
the natural heritage features of the Township of Wainfleet.
One of the themes of the Official Plan is improving
public access to the waterfront. Government agencies
are encouraged to assist in the purchase of waterfront
lands to improve public access opportunities. This Master
Plan is consistent with the Township’s vision and policy
direction of improving public access to the waterfront
while maintaining and enhancing the natural environment.

WAINFLEET RECREATION MASTER PLAN
In 2011 the Township of Wainfleet approved a Recreation
Master Plan, which focuses on outdoor parks, open spaces and
community trail resources; recreation facilities and services; and
culture resources provided by the Township. The intent of the
Master Plan is to guide parks and recreation development over
a 10-year planning horizon and provide recommendations on
the creation of a balanced array of parks and recreation services.
The Recreation Master Plan recognizes the importance of Lake Erie
shorelineaccessforbothlocalrecreationandtourismuse. Inresponse
tothedirectionintheRecreationMasterPlan,thisMasterPlansupports
improving shoreline access for both recreation and tourism use.
TOWNSHIP OF WAINFLEET STRATEGIC PLAN
In 2017, the Township of Wainfleet released their Strategic
Plan which establishes the following vision statement for
the Township: “The Township of Wainfleet will be a sustainable
rural community that offers outstanding quality of life for all”.
The Strategic Plan identifies three main goals as well as specific
action items. The adjacent list summarizes goals and actions that
relate to this Master Plan process.
This Master Plan supports the actions and goals of the Township’s
Strategic Plan by creating a vision and development plan for the
four NPCA properties connected by Lakeshore Road and Lake Erie
and improving the signage/way-finding signage for visitors and
residents of the Township.
TOWNSHIP STRATEGIC PLAN DIRECTIONS AND
ACTIONS
Community Stewardship:
“Our goal is to retain and enhance the characteristics
– physical and social – that make Wainfleet such a
special place to live.”
Actions:
“Develop a community-wide vision of what we want
the lake front to be, for residents and for visitors.”
“Improve the signage and way-finding signage that
identifies and welcomes travelers and residents to
Wainfleet.”
Communication and Engagement:
“Our goal is to better communicate with residents,
external partners, other levels of government, and the
public at large to engage them in making Wainfleet a
vital, desirable place to live, work and play.”
Actions:
“Explore a variety of ways to communicate with
residents and engage them in municipal life.”
“Highlight marketing opportunities for Township of
Wainfleet tourism, agriculture, real estate, business
and recreation.”

4
CONSULTATION
A key component to the development of this Master Plan was
communityengagementtounderstandtheneedsandopinionsofthe
public and stakeholders for each of the four NPCA properties within
theTownshipofWainfleet.Assuch,avarietyofconsultationmethods
were used to engage the public including a facilitated stakeholder
meeting, handouts, paper and online survey and public meetings.

STAKEHOLDER MEETING
A stakeholder meeting was held on November 3, 2016 in
the afternoon at the Firefighter’s Memorial Hall in Wainfleet.
Stakeholders were identified by the NPCA and Township of
Wainfleet. In total, approximately 15 people attended the
stakeholdermeeting.Stakeholdersrepresentedincludedstaff
from the NPCA and the Township, as well as representatives
from local businesses and recreation providers.
The stakeholder meeting was intended to obtain
feedback on the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities
and threats of the four NPCA properties and understand
the stakeholder’s opinions regarding their future use.
PUBLIC MEETINGS
PublicMeetingswereheldonNovember3,2016andFebruary
8, 2017. The purpose of these meetings was to introduce the
project to the public and obtain feedback on how they would
like the properties to be developed. At the second public
meeting, concept plans were presented and feedback was
obtained. In total, 70 people attended these public meetings.
SURVEYS
A survey was also conducted targeting all residents within
the Township of Wainfleet as well as residents outside the
Township who use the NPCA properties or who would use
the NPCA properties. The survey was administered online
and through paper surveys. Paper surveys were distributed
at the Township of Wainfleet Municipal Office. The electronic
surveywasdistributedonlinethroughtheNPCAandTownship
websitesaswellassocialmediaaccounts. Intotal,168responses
to the survey were received from August to November, 2016.
It is recognized that the survey results are not statistically
significant, however, they do help provide a better
understanding of the demographics of visitors, the
geographic range of the user-base of each property, and
ultimately assisted in corroborating the feedback received
through the public meetings and stakeholder engagement.
WHERE SURVEY PARTICIPANTS LIVE
Number of Attendes
for Public Meetings
70
Survey Responses
Buffalo, NY
Niagara Falls, ON
Hamilton
Toronto
Wainfleet
56%
Region of
Niagara
29% U.S.A
6%
Elsewhere
in Canada:
5%
Lake Ontario
Lake Erie
Morg
Wai
Most Visits

Out of the 168 survey responses, 56% reside within
the Township of Wainfleet, 29% live elsewhere in Ni-
agara Region, 6% are from the United States of Amer-
ica, 5% are from elsewhere in Canada and 4% were
unidentified. Users of the subject properties are not
restricted to residents of the Township but attract
users from the greater Niagara Region and abroad.
Part of the survey looked at understanding how aware
respondents were of each subject property. Respon-
dents were most aware of the Long Beach Conserva-
tion Area while being least aware of the Lakewood
property. Respondents were also asked how frequent-
ly they (or members of their household) used each of
the subject properties. Morgan’s Point was the most
frequently visited site, which speaks to the fact that
it acts as a community park for the surrounding area.
The “Lakewood”property is the least frequented. These
results are not surprising, considering the Lakewood
property is currently vacant and undeveloped. Aware-
ness of each property will need to be addressed as
these properties are programmed. Public awareness
will help ensure the success of these Conservation
Areas in terms of attracting tourists/visitors to the
Lake Erie shoreline. Public awareness of these prop-
erties will also help in the education and manage-
ment of natural resources present at each property.
73%

1 Improved Beach Cleanliness
Longbeach
Improved Beach
Improved Water Quality
Washroom and Shower Facilities
Better day use facilities
2
3
4
5
1Improved Beach Cleanliness
Improved Beach Cleanliness
Additonal Walking Trails
Better linkage of NPCA Waterfront
Additional Hiking Trails
“Lakewood”
Morgan’s Point
Better linkage of NPCA Waterfront Points
Washroom and Shower Facilities
Better day use facilities
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
Improved Parking
Additional Walking Trails
Improved day use facilities
Additional Hiking Trails
Wainfleet Wetlands and Quarry
1
2
3
4
5
As part of the survey, respondents were asked how desirable listed improvements would be for the subject property they visited or used most
frequently.The image above summarizes the top 5 most desirable improvements for each property. Improved beach cleanliness and improved
water quality were highly desirable improvements for all three properties along the Lake Erie shoreline. Meanwhile, the most desirable im-
provement at the Wainfleet Wetlands/Quarry property was parking. When asked if the improvements noted above were to be made, 73% of
survey respondents indicated that they would use the NPCA properties more often.
MOST DESIRED IMPROVEMENTS

Survey respondents were also asked their opinion on the
various opportunities to fund the improvements they iden-
tified as being desirable. Respondents are most supportive
of the NPCA pursuing corporate partnerships, sponsorships
and naming rights as a funding source. Respondents are least
supportive of paying more in property taxes to fund the im-
provements. Only the Long Beach Conservation Area cur-
rently charges fees to use the property. Just over half (53%)
of respondents said they would not support paying user
fees at NPCA properties where fees do not currently exist.
With added investment into the NPCA properties, they may
become more attractive for visitors and guests to the Town-
ship. The survey asked how active the NPCA, the Township
of Wainfleet and economic development agencies should be
about promoting the Township as a waterfront destination.
In total, 75% of respondents said improved waterfront facili-
ties should be part of a tourism strategy to attract more visi-
tors to Wainfleet. There is the potential for these properties to
become local and regional recreation and tourist attractions.
The biggest barriers survey respondents identified to using the
NPCA properties included: they do not have enough time; the
lack of cleanliness/maintenance of facilities; and, they do not
know what is available at the properties. Respondents were
also given an opportunity to write-in additional barriers, which
included: lack of cleanliness of beaches; poor water quality;
and not well advertised/promoted. Again, beach cleanliness
and water quality were common themes identified with these
properties. The issue of advertising and promoting the sites
is something that can be addressed through this Master Plan.
The survey responses and comments from the public and
stakeholder meetings were considered and incorporated in
the development of this Master Plan.

5
STRATEGIC ACTIONS
The Master Plans presented in the following sections (Sections 6 through 9) outline the ultimate development
plans for each of the four NPCA properties. The Master Plans in these following sections recommend improve-
ments based on four broad themes. These include the following:
BRANDING & IMAGE PHYSICAL IMPROVEMENTS NATURAL IMPROVEMENTS RECREATION
Although connected by Lakeshore Road and Lake Erie, each of the four properties are unique and are proposed to
be managed based on different programming objectives and intended uses. In each of the following sections, the
intendedprogrammingofthepropertiesisidentified,whichformsthefoundationforthevariousrecommendations/
actions of the proposed Master Plans. The Master Plans for each site also includes an Implementation Plan which
provides estimated costs for the various actions/recommendations of each property along with implementation
phased over ten years.
At a macro scale, these properties can function interdependently. One of the objectives of this Master Plan
develops a plan or strategy for how the sites can complement each other. As a result, the strategic actions outlined
in this section apply to all properties.
Describes actions to
develop consistent
branding and
imaging.
Describes actions
to make physical
improvements, which
will result in new
buildings/structures
or infrastructure
Describes actions
to make natural
improvements to the
site, which includes
plantings and
landscaping.
Describes actions
to introduce new or
improved ways to
provide opportunities
for recreation
programming.

Strategic Actions
CONSISTENT BRANDING
The NPCA should work with Niagara Region and the Township
of Wainfleet to develop an over arching and consistent brand for
the four NPCA properties. Branding should be used to deliver a
consistent message to the community and symbolically connect
the four properties. This brand could also be extended to other
NPCA, Township, or Regionally owned properties along the
Lakeshore. The NPCA needs to understand its ‘brand’ before a
marketing/communicationsplancanbecompletedsuchthatitis
consistent with the NPCA’s overall marketing plan and reflective
of the Conservation Authorities mission statement/mandate.
MARKETING PLAN AND COMMUNICATIONS
In accordance with standard practices, the NPCA should
develop a marketing plan and communications strategy. When
brand, marketing and communication strategies are in-sync,
great things happen. The NPCA should develop an interactive,
innovative and community-driven marketing strategy specific to
recreation, sport and culture on the subject lands.
COLLABORATION AND PARTNERSHIPS
Partnership arrangements are becoming increasingly important
and prevalent in the delivery of recreational services. The
NPCA should explore and utilize both private and not-for-
profit partnerships to deliver facilities and services wherever
financially viable.The NPCA should also investigate collaborative
opportunitieswithNiagaraRegionandtheTownshipofWainfleet
to realize the full development plans of these properties. These
partnership opportunities could be used to build/install services or
implement/ deliver programs and services (e.g. private recreation
businesses) on the subject lands.
ENCOURAGE VOLUNTEERISM
Building on the collaboration and partnerships recommendation,
volunteers in recreation make an extremely valuable contribution to
community cohesiveness, Canadian society and the economy. The
NPCA should explore and expand volunteer opportunities with not-
for-profit organizations, schools and service clubs. Volunteerism will
not only assist with maintaining the properties, but can also help
encourage community ownership and civic pride.
FEE STRUCTURE
At present, only Long Beach Conservation Area has a daily user
fee. As a result of the proposed Master Plans, user fees should also
be considered for the Wainfleet Wetlands/Quarry and Lakewood
properties in order to ensure the long-term sustainability of the uses
at these properties. Wainfleet residents will have preferred user fees
and may not even pay user fees on some properties (for example,
on “Lakewood” or Morgan’s Point). The NPCA should also consider
a fee structure where users can pay one fee for access to all of the
Wainfleet properties.
OTHER REVENUE STREAMS
The NPCA should explore other ways to develop revenue on the
properties, where appropriate, through public-private partnerships,
naming rights and sponsorship. Opportunities for a partnership with
local recreation companies to deliver services, sporting activities/
events and pavilion rentals for gatherings or community events
should be continually explored.

NAMING THE “LAKEWOOD” PROPERTY
Throughout this Master Plan, the former Easter Seals property
is called the “Lakewood” property. At present, this property
has no identifying name. It is therefore recommended that the
NPCA establish a community engagement process to assist with
formally naming the property.
PRIORITIZING DEVELOPMENT OF PROPERTIES
The following sections provide a number of strategic actions/
recommendations for all four properties. The NPCA should
prioritize the implementation of these actions based on the
following order:
1. “Lakewood”Property
2. Wainfleet Wetlands and Quarry
3. Morgan’s Point Conservation Area
4. Long Beach Conservation Area
Development should proceed as capital is made available.
FUNDING SOURCES
The NPCA should explore alternative funding sources so that
the Conservation Authority does not bear the entire cost of
development. Alternative funding sources include capital
fundraising campaigns (some of the more discrete and tangible
items may be fundable by outside sponsors and foundations or
by fundraising campaigns oriented towards the general public),
private sector investment (e.g. the proposed “walk in the trees”/
zip line could be paid for and operated by a private operator) and
public sector grants (Federal and Provincial funding programs).

6
LONG BEACH
CONSERVATION AREA
Long Beach Conservation Area (“Long Beach”) is located on the
northern shore of Lake Erie in the southwestern corner of theTown-
ship ofWainfleet.The property is 56 hectares (139 acres) in size with
beach access.The property is bisected by Lakeshore Road (Regional
Road 3) such that 13 hectares (33 acres) are located south of the
road (adjacent to the lake) while 43 hectares (106 acres) are located
on the north side.
Long Beach has been owned and operated by the NPCA since April,
1961.

Existing Conditions Long Beach
Long Beach Conservation Area is an existing campground and day use park.
Of the four properties included in this Master Plan, Long Beach is the only
property which charges a user fee. The property is bisected by Lakeshore
Road, with the majority of the activity directed to the lands adjacent to the
Lake Erie shoreline.
The property features 225 seasonal and overnight campsites on both
sides of Lakeshore Road. A gatehouse is located at the entrance, which is
limited in size but does contain some retail and convenience items. Two
comfort stations exist on the south side of Lakeshore Road, which contain
washrooms and showers. An older playground, swing set, basketball court
and volleyball court are all in need of replacement/upgrades.
A prominent feature and attraction of this property is the beach. There are
severalstairaccesspointstothebeach,whichareinneedofrepair.Thewater
quality at the beach is often a concern and beach closures are a common
occurrence. A boat launch, consisting of a concrete slab, exists at the east
end of the site. Water levels at the boat launch are generally very shallow,
thereby limiting the size of boats that can be launched.
Overflow camping, a maintenance yard, sewage lagoons and some
recreational trails are located north of Lakeshore Road. The majority of the
lands north of Lakeshore Road comprise of forest/plantation.
A Master Plan for Long Beach Conservation Area was prepared in 1982
and updated in 1993. The original Master Plan recommended additional
campsites on both sides of Lakeshore Road, including group camping on
the north side of the road; a new pump-house; two comfort stations to
service the new campsites; gatehouse addition; possibility for a laundromat
and/or variety store; a residence for the superintendent; more landscaping;
beach improvements and a fitness trail. The purpose of the Master Plan in
1993 was to conduct an inventory of the status of the Conservation Area and
make recommendations for wildlife management and forest management.

BURKETTRD
LAKESHORE RD
LAKE ERIE
TRAVERRD
15
1. Waste management facility
2. Trailhead
3. Campsites
4. Comfort station
5. Garbage collection
6. Entrance feature
7. Gate house
8. Plantation/woodlot
9. Playground
10. Basketball court
11. Volleyball court
12. Boat launch
13. Beach
14. Pavilions
15. Beach access
16. Former baseball diamond /overflow parking
SUMMARY OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
1
2
3
4
5
6 7
53
9
10
12
13
16
11
15
15
8
14
4

1. Entrance feature and signage to the property needs to
be enhanced to clearly identify the park and attract vis-
itors. Signage and entrance details on the north side of
Lakeshore Road should also be enhanced to promote the
activities on lands north of Lakeshore Road. Consideration
should be given to improving the cross walk and imple-
menting traffic calming to slow vehicular traffic and pro-
mote pedestrian traffic between the north and south sides
of the park. This may require collaborating with the Town-
ship in order to implement.
2. Provide updated and consistent way-finding signage
throughout the park to direct visitors to the various
components of the conservation area (e.g. beach, camping,
parking etc.).
3. The existing camp site demarcation posts should be re-
placed and upgraded to ensure they are consistently
demarcated both on the north and the south sides of the
park.
4. New trailhead mapping, consistent signage and markers
should be incorporated into the new trail design in the
northern woodlot. Opportunities for educational and
interpretive signage should also be considered.
5. The existing gate house and parking around the gate house
should be upgraded, and at a minimum, ensure Accessibility
for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) compliance. Con-
sider incorporating a concession / store into a new / renovat-
ed gatehouse. Landscape enhancements should be consid-
ered around the entrance gate and parking area to further
enhance the visitor experience.
6. Existing open areas north of Lakeshore Road and opposite
the existing camping area can be designed and planned for
group camping facilities in order to enhance and expand the
range of camping opportunities / experiences at the park.
For the purposes of this Master Plan we have assumed that a
minimum of 8 group camping sites can be accommodated.
Group camping could be marketed to schools for retreats and
overnight trips geared towards outdoor and environmental
educational opportunities.
7. Existing open area south of Lakeshore Road (former baseball
diamond) should be planned to accommodate future fully
serviced camping sites and consideration should be given to
providing accessible camp sites. A total of 44 campsites are
assumed.
8. The existing comfort station / washroom in the main camping
area is in need of upgrading and should at least ensure com-
pliance with AODA standards.
BRANDING AND IMAGE
Recommended Development Plan
PHYSICAL IMPROVEMENTS
PROGRAMMING: BEACH ACCESS, CAMPING, PASSIVE RECREATION

9. Add two new comfort stations – one near the group camp-
ers and one near the accessible camp sites. The new comfort
stations should be AODA compliant.
10. The garbage enclosure at the park entrance on the north
side of the park should be located to a less prominent loca-
tion and away from the current trail head. Consideration
should be given to alternative collection systems such as a
deep well garbage collection system, which can be more
visually attractive than standard garbage enclosures.
11. The existing access points to the beach from the existing ser-
viced camping areas and pavilion areas need to be improved
and properly signed. The concrete steps to the beach (near
the pavilions) are showing signs of deterioration and need to
be replaced / upgraded.
12. The existing boat launch and associated concrete pad along
the beach should be removed. The depth of the water at the
boat launch and anticipated sand deposition in this area of
the beach do not make this location well suited for a recre-
ational boat launch. Considerable investment and likely Fed-
eral/ Provincial approvals would be required to continuously
dredge and build appropriate infrastructure (e.g. break walls)
to prevent sediment build up and ensure adequate water
depth for boats. Removing the concrete from the beach
would also improve and expand the beach area.
13. The existing waste collection area east of the main gate
should be properly screened with upgraded fencing and /or
vegetation to screen it from public view.
14. Consider enhancing the buffer / screening on the western
property limit (south of Lakeshore Road) abutting the exist-
ing residential area to create an improved visual screen for
campers as well as help with compatibility between uses.
15. Additional screening / tree planting should be implement-
ed along the northern and southern sides of Lakeshore
Road to screen the future campgrounds from the public
right-of-way.
16. Consideration should be given to removing some existing
trees in selected areas along the beach front to improve
visibility and access to the beach (particularly from the
pavilions and seating areas).
NATURAL IMPROVEMENTS

17. The existing play structure is in need of replacement to
conform to current standards, including proper footing and
additional benches / seating areas and bicycle racks.
18. The existing basketball net and volleyball court should be
updated. The volleyball court should be relocated closer
to the beach front in order to build on the beach experi-
ence and maximize visibility to the beach.
19. Improve, maintain and widen (minimum 2 metres in width)
the existing trail network throughout the northern wood-
lot. A wider and improved trail surface would accommo-
date multi-purpose uses including hiking, walking and
possibly winter activities (weather permitting) such as cross
country skiing and snowshoeing.
The existing trail network should be expanded to maxi-
mize the use of the woodlot. Multi-length loops should be
considered to provide a variety of experiences and cater
to different skill levels. The trail should avoid the existing
storage area and existing waste management facility.
RECREATION

1:2500
LONG BEACH
WAINFLEET, ONTARIO - DRAFT MASTER PLAN
P L A N N I N G
URBAN DESIGN
& LANDSCAPE
ARCHITECTURE
MHBC
VIEWEXISTING
PAVILION
SHORELINE
ENHANCED
ENTRY FEATURE
SIGNAGE
SITE
BOUNDARY
PROPOSED
TRAIL
EXISTING
TRAIL
MAIN
ROAD
WASTE
LOCATION
BEACH ACCESS
LOCATION
PARKINGVEGETATION
151
4
3
2
17
11 12
13
14
10
7
9
18
8
5
6
16
Long Beach Master Plan
(Note: Numerical references on plan correspond with the
recommendations summarized on the previous pages.)
9
11
11
19

1. Enhance Entrance Feature and Signage
2. Update Way-Finding/Educational Signage
3. Update Camp Site Posts
4. New Trailhead Mapping and Signage
5. Gate House Upgrades
6. New Group Camping Area
7. New Accessible Camp Sites
8. Upgrade Comfort Station
9. Add 2 New Comfort Stations
10. Relocate Waste Area
11. Improve Beach Access
12. Remove Boat Launch
13. Screen Waste Area
14. Enhanced Buffer Along Western Edge
15. Additional Tree Plantings to Screen Future Campgrounds
16. Improve Visibility of and Access to Lake
17. Replace Play Structure
18. Update Basketball & Volleyball Courts
19. Improve and Expand Trail Network
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS FOR
LONG BEACH MASTER PLAN

SHORTTERM
Install new entrance features for north & south
sides
$30,000
Install pedestrian wayfinding signage $30,000
Install new campsite signs & posts $45,000
Install new waste management system $60,000
Install bike racks $8,000
Add new stairs to improve beach access $200,000
Update existing comfort station north of Lakeshore
Road
$150,000
Remove existing boat launch $5,000
Clear trees to improve views of Lake Erie $5,000
Screen the maintenance area with fencing and
plantings
$20,000
Add plantings to enhance buffer to westerly uses $10,000
Add plantings along Lakeshore Road1
$50,000
Install new basketball and beach volleyball courts $60,000
Install new play structure $125,000
Add new seating areas $15,000
SUBTOTAL: $813,000
Long Beach Implementation Plan
The cost estimates presented here
should be considered to be order-of-
magnitude only in nature and based
on 2017 costs. They are indicative but
not precise estimates. Implementation
is proposed to be carried out by
establishing short term (2-5 years),
medium term (5-10 years) and long
term (10+ years) goals. For the purposes
of this Master Plan, a 15% contingency
has also been used to account for
inflation and unforeseen costs. Where
required, assumptions are noted at the
bottom of this page.
Note, no allowances have been made
for additional studies, professional
fees or permits/approvals that may
be required to implement some of
the recommendations. Furthermore,
no allowance has been made for
any servicing upgrades that may be
required such as electrical, water,
security, fire, etc.
1
Assumes screen plating along 200m of
Lakeshore Road
2
Assumes a parking lot sized for 20 vehicles
3
Assumes comfort station to be 20 ft x 50 ft
4
Assumes 8 group camp sites (45 ft x 90 ft)
5
Assumes 44 accessible/older adult campsites
(15 ft x 30 ft)

MEDIUMTERM
Install new ‘green’ parking area by the gate house2
$130,000
Update existing comfort station south of Lakeshore
Road.
$15,000
Construct new comfort station for group camping3
$250,000
Add new group camping sites4
$200,000
Upgrade gate house $100,000
Clear and enhance the trail network $187,500
SUBTOTAL: $882,500
LONG
TERM
Construct new accessible or older adult camping
area5
$1,100,000
Construct new comfort station for new camping
area3
$350,000
SUBTOTAL: $1,450,000
15% CONTINGENCY: $471,825.00
GRAND TOTAL: $3,617,325.00

7
“LAKEWOOD” PROPERTY
The“Lakewood”property was purchased in 2014 by the NPCA from
the Easter Seals Society to increase the amount of public beach
access in the Township. The property is 15 acres in size and contains
approximately 158 metres (519 feet) of beach front access. The
“Lakewood”property is located south of Lakeshore Road.
The site is currently vacant and contains no buildings or structures.
There is no access currently to the site but there is frontage on Lake-
shore Road.

Existing Conditions Lakewood
Lakewood is a vacant piece of land that was acquired by
the NPCA in 2014. The primary attraction of the property is
the 158 metres of beach access on the Lake Erie shoreline.
A sensitive dune system exists on the property. The subject
lands are also known to be important migratory bird and
Fowler’s toad habitat.
A 41-unit residential subdivision is proposed immediately west
of the Lakewood property. The application is still under review.
Existing agricultural operations are located east of the subject
lands. Existing homes along the waterfront are also located
immediately east of the property.

LAKESHORE ROAD
LAKE ERIE
1. Beach
2. Dune System
3. Vacant Land
4. Future Residential Development
5. Existing Agricultural Operation
6. Existing Dwellings
SUMMARY OF EXISTING
CONDITIONS
1
2
3
4
2
5
6

1. Create an entrance feature on Lakeshore Road that is
identifiable and consistent with other Conservation Areas.
2. Consistent and visible way-finding signage should be
provided throughout the site to direct visitors to various
amenities on site as well educate visitors regarding
appropriate etiquette for site use and respect for natural
features. Opportunities for educational / interpretative
signage should also be considered particularly along the
sensitive dune features along the beach.
3. Construct a kiosk at the entrance that could include maintenance
staff and a concession area. New staff parking / maintenance
parking could be incorporated at the entrance. Landscaping and
screening of the parking should be incorporated into the design. A
temporary staff kiosk may be appropriate in the short-term in order
to allow for the site to open to the public.
4. A fully accessible washroom facility with the option to provide for
outdoor showers should be provided near the beach. Temporary
washroom facilities may be appropriate in the short-term in order
to open the site to the public.
5. A new boardwalk system with a minimum of two access points to
the beach should be constructed. The boardwalk system would
ensure that pedestrian traffic is directed through and away from
the sensitive sand dune features/habitat.
6. Lookout pavilions and seating areas can be incorporated into the
boardwalk system.
7. A new parking area should be constructed within walking distance
to the beach area and well setback from the natural feature areas
and dunes along the beach front. Consideration should be given to
constructing a‘green’parking lot to provide a more of a permeable
surface.
BRANDING AND IMAGE
PROGRAMMING: BEACH ACCESS, NATURALIZATION, NATURE INTERPRETATION & EDUCATION

8. A fully accessible and continuous walking trail can be
provided along the perimeter of the site to connect all site
amenities together as well as provide a pedestrian link from
the entrance of the site to the beach. The trail could also
provide for other passive activities such as bird watching /
nature interpretation.
9. Enhanced tree screening along the property boundaries
should be planted to screen the property from adjacent
land uses.
10. A fully accessible play structure should be incorporated
close to the beach and parking area and outside the
natural vegetated areas and dunes along the beach front.
11. Two to three outdoor picnic pavilions complete with bbq
stands, picnic tables and benches should be incorporated
and clustered together around a central amenity area.
12. Construction of an inland pond should be considered to
provide for passive recreation and / or swimming or fishing.
The pond can be designed with a fully accessible and
AODA compliant dock/deck.
13. A large open area should be incorporated to allow for
unobstructed programming space recreational activities
(e.g. frisbee golf).
NATURAL IMPROVEMENTS RECREATION

Lakewood Master Plan
P L A N N I N G
URBAN DESIGN
& LANDSCAPE
ARCHITECTURE
MHBC
LAKEWOOD
VIEWPAVILION/
LOOKOUT
SHORELINE
ENTRY
FEATURE
SITE
BOUNDARY
PROPOSED
TRAIL
MAIN
ROAD
SEATING
AREAS
PROPOSED
ROAD
VEGETATION
BOARDWALK
1
3
2
8
5
6
10
114
12
7.
5. 9
13
9

LONG BEACH MASTER PLAN
1. New Entrance Feature
2. Consistent Way-Finding/Educational Signage
3. New Kiosk/ Office
4. Accessible Washroom
5. New Boardwalk
6. Lookout Pavilion & Seating Areas
7. Parking Area (Approx. 50 Cars)
8. Accessible Walking Trail
9. Tree Screening
10. Accessible Play Structure
11. 2-3 Outdoor Picnic Pavilions
12. Pond for Passive Recreation
13. Open area for unobstructed programming or
recreational activities (e.g frisbee golf)
15.
16.

Lakewood – Implementation Plan
SHORTTERM
Install new entrance feature $15,000
Install new etiquette and interpretative signage $20,000
Add temporary structure for staff kiosk and
washroom facilities
$100,000
Construct lookouts and gazebos $30,000
Construct boardwalk to provide beach access over
dunes
$60,000
Construct ‘green’ parking area $325,000
Clear and build trail network (including signage) $72,000
New picnic tables (with BBQ stands) $20,000
SUBTOTAL: $644,500
Lakewood Implementation Plan
The cost estimates presented here
should be considered to be order-of-
magnitude only in nature. They are
indicative but not precise estimates.
Implementation is proposed to be
carried out by establishing short term
(2-5 years), medium term (5-10 years)
and long term (10+ years) goals. For
the purposes of this Master Plan, a 15%
contingency has been used to account
for inflation and unforeseen costs.
Where required, assumptions are noted
at the bottom of this page.
Note, no allowances have been made
for additional studies, professional
fees, or permits/approvals that may
be required to implement some of
the recommendations. Furthermore,
no allowance has been made for
any servicing upgrades that may be
required such as electrical, water,
security, fire, etc.
1
Assumes a parking lot sized for 50
vehicles
2
Assumes a 300 square foot building and
includes servicing costs

MEDIUMTERM
Construct information kiosk with concession facility $300,000
Construct washrooms with potable water and
outdoor showers
$300,000
Install new waste management system (Moloks) $30,000
Install new play structure $150,000
Add picnic pavilions (3) $300,000
LONG
TERM
Install natural pool/pond $350,000
SUBTOTAL: $350,000
15% CONTINGENCY: $311,175.00
GRAND TOTAL: $2,385,675.00

8
MORGAN’S POINT
Morgan’s Point Conservation Area is 9.6 acres in size and is located
on the west side of Morgan’s Point Road. The lands are adjacent to
and established residential neighbourhood to the north and east.
Morgan’s Point is bordered to the west and south by Lake Erie.
Morgan’s Point was a former municipally-owned campground,
which was eventually transferred to the NPCA in 2001. The prop-
erty is home to one of the few remaining sand dune ecosystems
and oak savannah areas along the Lake Erie shoreline. The property
is an important stopover area for migratory birds and butterflies.

Existing Conditions Morgan’s Point
Morgan’s Point acts as a community park for the local
residences in the area. Although popular to local residents,
the park is difficult to find as wayfinding signage is not
available and the park entrance is difficult to see from the
road. A parking lot exists but is limited, largely undefined, and
made of gravel. The park contains a playground which is in
relatively good condition, and a washroom facility is located
separate from the playground and parking lot area. Walking
paths and pedestrian benches give users an opportunity to
enjoy and experience the Lake Erie shoreline. A relatively new
boardwalk,includinginterpretativesignageandlookoutsalso
exists, but the boardwalk is not continuous and the signage is
in need of an update. The‘beach’contains a number of fossils
and limited swimming opportunities due to the shale rock
along the shoreline. The shoreline at the park does provide
excellent views and vistas of the Lake.

1:1000
MORGAN‛SPOINTROAD
LAKEERIE
1. Entry feature signage
2. Parking lot
3. Playground
4. Washroom
5. Walking paths
6. Lake access/lookout
7. Boardwalk
8. Shale beach
SUMMARY OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
6
6
5

1. The entrance area and signage on Morgan’s Point Road
should be improved to ensure the park entrance is clearly
delineated and visible from the traveling public. The pillars
at the entrance should be retained, restored (and possibly
relocated within the park) to acknowledge and retain their
historical significance.
2. Consistent and visible way-finding signs should be installed
throughout the park to demarcate uses and trailways.
Interpretative / educational/ etiquette signage can be
incorporated throughout the park and at various locations
along the trail.
3. The existing parking area should be improved and
delineated with appropriate marker posts and / or
additional landscape features to prohibit vehicular access
on other parts of the property. Parking improvements
could be phased whereby the initial improvements
would define the parking area with gravel and long term
improvements would include constructing a‘green’parking
lot.
4. The existing washroom facility needs to be updated and
consideration should be given to relocating the washroom
closer to the parking area. The existing facility is setback
from the parking area and other active uses creating a
potential safety concern along with maintenance and
accessibility challenges.
BRANDING AND IMAGE
PROGRAMMING: PASSIVE RECREATION, NATURE INTERPRETATION & EDUCATION

5. The views and vistas from the park out to Lake
Erie should be maximized and enhanced with
various lookout landings and / or structures.
6. The existing roadway / walking path around
the open space area should be reconfigured /
redesigned to provide a continuous loop around
the proposed picnic shelters.
7. Natural habitats should be sustained and
enhanced for long term ecological benefit. A
pollinator garden could be considered on the site
for the migratory butterflies.
8. Two or three gazebos or picnic shelters should be installed within the open
space of the park to provide for rental opportunities. Picnic areas can be
supplemented with outdoor bbqs and picnic tables / seating. Picnic / shelter
areas and open space areas can be used to host special community events.
9. Outdoor educational opportunities should be considered for the property.
A small outdoor amphitheater should be considered as an amenity and
educational feature that can either be used or rented by community groups,
schools, weddings or compliment Conservation Authority programming. The
amphitheater should consist of seating to accommodate a minimum of 50
people and provide for a covered central podium / stage. The amphitheater
location should take advantage of existing grades/topography and use
naturalized seating (e.g. stone, logs) to‘blend-in’with the natural environment.
10. In order to provide winter activity opportunities, an outdoor ice rink and ice
skating circuit can be incorporated around the existing play area and entrance
of the site. A location close to Morgan’s Point Road and the abutting residential
uses would ensure“eyes on the park”. Partnership opportunities with the
neighbourhood association could be explored to assist with the maintenance
and management of the ice rink / circuit.
11. A fully accessible walking trail along the waterfront should be planned and
designed consisting of an accessible boardwalk. The boardwalk would extend
the entire length of the lake shore at a lower elevation than the existing
boardwalk in the park (which is located on top of the existing dune feature).

1:1000
Morgan’s Point Master Plan
5
2
2
11
P L A N N I N G
URBAN DESIGN
& LANDSCAPE
ARCHITECTURE
MHBC
MORGAN’S POINT
VIEW
EXISTING / RELOCATED
WASHROOM FACILITY
EXISTING
TRAIL
SHORELINE
FOSSIL / NATURE
INTERPRETATION
SIGNAGE
SITE
BOUNDARY
PROPOSED
TRAIL
MAIN
ROAD
FULL ACCESS
BOARDWALK
ENHANCED
ENTRY FEATURE
EXISTING
BOARDWALK
VEGETATION
GAZEBO /
SHELTER
4
10
49
67
5
5
1
4
8
3
2
2

1. Enhanced Entrance Feature and Signage
2. Consistent Way-Finding/Educational/Etiquette Signage
3. Improved Parking Area
4. New Relocated Washroom
5. Improve Visibility / lookouts of lake
6. Reconfigure Walking Path
7. Sustain and enhance natural habitats
8. 2-3 Gazebos or Picnic Shelters
9. New Outdoor Amphitheater
10. New Outdoor Ice Rink / Skating Circuit
11. Accessible Walking Trail
MORGAN’S POINT MASTER PLAN

Morgan’s Point
Implementation Plan
SHORTTERM
Install new etiquette and interpretative signage $10,000
Install trail head signage $5,000
Parking area improvements (define parking area with
gravel)
$30,000
Clear and enhance existing trail (including signage) $39,000
Clear new trail (including signage) $19,500
Open space creation and tree removal $30,000
Install new lookouts, gazebos and shelters $200,000
Add new picnic pavilions with BBQ stands $200,000
SUBTOTAL: $553,500MEDIUMTERM
Construct ‘green’ parking area1
$130,000
Construct new washroom2
$250,000
Demolish old washroom $5,000
Install full access boardwalk $500,000
Install servicing and water hydrant for ice rink
(including grading)
$20,000
SUBTOTAL: $823,750
LONG
TERM
Install new amphitheatre and stage $250,000
SUBTOTAL: $250,000
15% CONTINGENCY: $256,275.00
GRAND TOTAL: $1,964,775.00
The cost estimates presented here should
be considered to be order-of-magnitude
only in nature and based on 2017 costs. They
are indicative but not precise estimates.
Implementation is proposed to be carried
out by establishing short term (2-5 years),
medium term (5-10 years) and long term (10+
years) goals. For the purposes of this Master
Plan, a 15% contingency has been used to
account for inflation and unforeseen costs.
Where required, assumptions are noted at
the bottom of this page.
Note, no allowances have been made for
additional studies, professional fees, or
permits/approvals that may be required to
implement some of the recommendations.
Furthermore,noallowancehasbeenmadefor
any servicing upgrades that may be required
such as electrical, water, security, fire, etc.
1
Assumes parking area for 30 vehicles.
2
Assumes new washroom is 450 square feet
based on the existing building and no new
services are required

9
WAINFLEET WETLANDS
AND QUARRY
The Wainfleet Wetlands/Quarry property was purchased by the
NPCAin1978.Thepurposeinacquiringthepropertywastopreserve
the fish and wildlife habitat. The property operated as a clay and
limestone quarry from the late 19th century until the 1960s, which
have since naturalized. The property is located between the Gord
Harry Trail and Lakeshore Road (north/south) and between Cement
Road and Rathfon Road (east/west). The property is also bisected
by Quarrie and Bessey Roads. The property is bordered to the east,
opposite Cement Road, by the City of Port Colborne. In total, the
Wainfleet Wetlands/Quarry property is 185 hectares (458 acres) in
size.
The site is a Bronze Plaque Award winner for quarry rehabilitation
work with the Management of Abandoned Aggregate Properties
Program, awarded for efforts to increase wetland development and
habitat cover for improved diversity and function in the landscape.

The Wainfleet Wetlands and Quarry property has naturalized since the NPCA
purchased the lands in 1978 and provides habitat for a variety of wildlife, aquatic and
vegetation species/communities. The wetlands on the eastern portion of the property
provides unique habitat and migratory stop-over for a large variety of bird species.
An entrance plaque is located off of Quarrie Road (near the Gord Harry Conservation Trail) to
recognize the Bronze Plaque Award that was given for the quarry rehabilitation work. There is
also a small, undefined gravel parking lot at this location. A number of informal trail accesses
have been established off of Quarrie Road and the Gord Harry Conservation Trail.
The Gord Harry Conservation Trail borders the entire northern limits of the property. The trail is
13 kilometres in length and stretches across the entire length of the Township.
A Master Plan for theWainfleetWetlands and Quarry property was prepared in 1980 and updated
in 1993. The original Master Plan proposed that the property be developed for low intensity use
for a variety of dispersed activities such as nature and geology study, fishing, hunting, hiking
and riding. Camping, swimming, picnic facilities and washrooms were not recommended. Three
parking lots, a series of designated trails, wildlife habitat improvements, fencing, and hunting
were recommended to be implemented.The purpose of the updated Master Plan was to conduct
an inventory of the status of the Conservation Area and make recommendations for fish and
wildlife and forest management.
The property is currently open to the public and no entry fees are charged and there are no
facilities provided. There are no permanent full time staff assigned to the property but staff do
operate the pump in the quarry; which maintains the water levels in the rehabilitated lakes. The
lands are generally used by the public for passive recreational uses such as hiking, swimming,
fishing and fossil collection. Hunting is currently permitted and regulated by the NPCA. The
quarry lakes have become a popular‘watering-hole’particularly when water quality in Lake Erie
has prohibited swimming in the Lake.
Existing Conditions Wainfleet
Wetlands and Quarry

GORD HARRY
CONSERVATION TRAIL
LAKE ERIE
LAKE ERIE
GORD HARRY
CONSERVATION TRAIL
QUARRIERD
CEMENTRD
BESSEYRD
LAKESHORE RD W
PO
LAKESHORE RD W
SUMMARY MAP EXISTING CONDITIONS
1. Entrance Feature
2. Parking Area
3. Gord Harry Conservation Trail
4. Former Quarry lake
5. Former Clay Pits
6. Informal Trail Network/Access
7. Bridge
8. Township Parking Area
9. Existing Quarry Pump
1
2
4
7
8
5
2
63
9
4
6
6

1. The main entrance to the Conservation Area
should be directed to the existing parking
area on the northern limit of the property
off of Quarrie Road. This location provides
direct access to not only the broader public
transportation network but also the Gord Harry
Conservation Trail.
2. Entrance features and signage should be
provided at the Quarrie Road access. The
entrance feature should have a consistent look
and brand as the other Conservation Authority
properties.
3. Interpretative / educational signage can be
provided throughout the site and along the
proposed trail network.
4. Way-finding signage and trail maps should also
be provided at strategic locations throughout
the property as the trail network/system is
developed.
5. The existing parking area off of Quarrie Road should be expanded to provide
a minimum of 40 to 50 parking spaces. An interim gravel parking area should
be provided until the new multi-use building is constructed. At that time
consideration should be given to installing a green parking area.
6. Two new gravel parking areas should be provided near the Gord Harry
Conservation Trail at the Bessey Road and Cement Road crossings. The Cement
Road crossing marks the beginning of the Gord Harry Trail and a specific trailhead
/ entrance feature (marking beginning of the trail) should be considered at this
location. These parking areas could act as landing / staging areas for future trail
connections on the balance of the property.
7. Access to the quarry at the culvert crossing on Quarrie Road should be controlled
such that visitors to the park are directed to the new entrance near the Gord Harry
Trail.
8. A multi-use building (approximately 5,000 square feet) should be developed to
accommodate park uses and provide for partnership opportunities to various
community organizations and/or Conservation Authority programming. The
building could provide for events that can be rented for community uses; private
functions and / or Conservation Authority programs. It can also be used to house
rental facilities for the balance of the property. Private partnership opportunities
for rental uses and other activities should be explored. The design and siting of
the building should reflect and be sensitive to the natural environment and where
possible incorporate low impact development standards and sustainable building
design criteria such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).
BRANDING AND IMAGE
PROGRAMMING: ACTIVE RECREATION, RECREATION HUB, NATURE INTERPRETATION & EDUCATION AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

9. The existing quarry lake shore line should
be improved, particularly near the multi-use
building in order to provide better access to
the inland lake. A new sand beach should be
considered for the northern shoreline of the
lake to improve and enhance water access.
10. A new multi-purpose trail network should be
designed and planned around the wetland
areas between Bessey Road and Cement Road
in order to direct the public through the site
and away from sensitive areas. Boardwalks may
need to be considered and incorporated into
the overall trail design. Lookouts and seating
areas should be strategically incorporated at
various points near the wetland / lake areas to
provide nature interpretation opportunities.
The proposed trail network should be
designed with multiple routes and provide for
multiple users such as cross country skiing,
snowshoeing, mountain biking (motorized
vehicles / ATV’s should be discouraged).
Construction of the trail network can be phased
over time.
11. Zip lining opportunities over the quarry should be considered and explored,
where feasible. The NPCA should consider partnership opportunities with a
private enterprise to operate and manage this use.
12. Canoe / kayak rental can be centralized at the multi-use building. Public /
private partnership can be explored to offer this service.
13. Opportunities to partner with private operators to offer canoe/kayak or scuba
diving lessons, etc. should also be explored.
14. The existing trail around the quarry lake can be improved and expanded.
Strategically located boardwalks around the lake would be required to ensure
a continuous loop around the two quarry lakes, on either side of Quarrie Road.
15. Opportunities to create a boardwalk underneath Quarrie Road at the existing
culvert at the southern limit of the two lakes should be explored to avoid the
need to have pedestrians cross Quarrie Road at grade.
16. A pedestrian walkway connection should be provided along Quarrie Road to
connect the main entrance to Lakeshore Road and beach accesses along Lake
Erie. Signage, pavement markings and / or a physical road-side trail within the
right-of-way should be explored with the Township.
17. Tree walk opportunities should be considered and explored, where physically
feasible. The NPCA should consider partnership opportunities with a private
enterprise to operate and manage this use.

WAINFLEET WETLANDS
VIEW SITE
BOUNDARY
PROPOSED
TRAIL
GORD HARRY
TRAIL
MAIN
ROAD
PEDESTRIAN
CONNECTION
WITHIN
RIGHT-OF-WAY
BOARDWALK
SAND BEACH
EXISTING
PARKING
PROPOSED
PARKING
VEGETATION
SHORELINE
P L A N N I N G
URBAN DESIGN
& LANDSCAPE
ARCHITECTURE
MHBC
12
2
3 4
5
6
6
8
10
9
16
15
9
1
13
4
17
11
3
3
14
7

1. Establish Main Entrance to Site
2. New Entrance Feature and Signage
3. New Interpretive/Education Signage
4. New Way-Finding Signage
5. Expand/improve existing parking area (40-50 spaces)
6. Create new parking areas
7. Control Access to Site
8. New Multi-Use Building (~5,000 sq ft)
9. New Sand Beach
10. New Multi-Purpose Trail Network
11. Zip Lining
12. Canoe/Kayak Rental Services
13. Recreational Activities (e.g. Scuba Diving)
14. Improve Trail System around Quarry lakes
15. New Boardwalk Underneath Quarrie Road
16. Pedestrian Walkway Connection Along Quarrie Road
17. Tree Walk
WAINFLEET WETLANDS MASTER PLAN

Wainfleet Wetlands
Implementation Plan
SHORTTERM
Install new etiquette signage $5,000
Install trail head signage $10,000
Add temporary structure for staff kiosk and washroom
facilities
$100,000
Interim parking area (gravel) $50,000
Install picnic tables (including BBQ stands) $20,000
Create a new sandy beach in the quarry $50,000
Clear new trail (including signage)1
$247,500
Install lookouts around the quarry $125,000
Install boardwalks (as necessary for trail connections)2
$105,000
SUBTOTAL: $747,500
MEDIUMTERM
New gravel parking lots $60,000
Clear new trail (including signage)1
$247,500
Install boardwalks (as necessary for trail connections)2
$105,000
SUBTOTAL: $412,500
LONGTERM
Multi-purpose building3
$1,125,000
‘Green’ parking lot near multi-purpose building $325,000
Tree-top zip line park4
$300,000
15% CONTINGENCY: $436,500
GRAND TOTAL: $3,346,500
The cost estimates presented here should
be considered to be order-of-magnitude
only in nature and based on 2017 costs. They
are indicative but not precise estimates.
Implementation is proposed to be carried
out by establishing short term (2-5 years),
medium term (5-10 years) and long term (10+
years) goals. For the purposes of this Master
Plan, a 15% contingency has been used to
account for inflation and unforeseen costs.
Where required, assumptions are noted at the
bottom of this page.
Note, no allowances have been made for
additional studies, professional fees, or
permits/approvals that may be required to
implement some of the recommendations.
Furthermore, no allowance has been made for
any servicing upgrades that may be required
such as electrical, water, security fire, etc.
1
Assumes a total of 6.6 km of trails to be built.
Construction is phased over short and medium
term.
2
Assumes a total of 700 m of boardwalk to be
built. Construction is phased over short and
medium term.
3
Assumes a 5,000 square foot building to be
constructed at a cost of $250 per square foot
4
Includes a building (600 square feet), parking
and servicing. A private business will be
responsible to operate the tree-top zip line park.

ECONOMIC IMPACT SECTION TO BE COMPLETED PENDING APPROVAL BY THE NPCA

11
CONCLUSIONS
Each of the four NPCA owned properties studied in this Master Plan are
unique. The proposed Master Plans are a result of stakeholder and public in-
put to understand the needs of the community. Given the unique character
of each property, the proposed uses and management of each property is
based on different themes/ programming objectives. As a result, the level
of proposed activity and use varies by property. Together, the four properties
offer great opportunity to benefit the immediate community, the Region and
the NPCA.
It is recommended that this Master Plan be continuously monitored to ensure
implementation of the various recommendations through the NPCA capital
budget. It is also recommended that this Master Plan be reviewed every five
years to update the recommendations, as necessary.

Wainfleet Conservation Areas Master Plan

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

Similar to Wainfleet Conservation Areas Master Plan

Similar to Wainfleet Conservation Areas Master Plan (20)

More from Michael Reles

More from Michael Reles (14)

Recently uploaded

Recently uploaded (20)

Wainfleet Conservation Areas Master Plan