Winter programs get underway at some GRCA parks

Winter programming will be offered at three Grand River Conservation Authority parks, weather permitting, starting January 3.

Laurel Creek in Waterloo, Shade's Mills in Cambridge and Pinehurst Lake in Paris will all be offering cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when trail conditions are suitable, which is when there is snow and the trails are fully or partially groomed. Equipment can be rented on site.

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Belwood Lake in Fergus and RockwoodPark will also be open this winter, but there will not be any scheduled programs. However, visitors can still enjoy hiking.

Trails, or even the parks themselves, could be closed during the season due tospecial events or a following a storm.

Ice fishing when conditions improve

Ice fishing will be available at Pinehurst Lake and Shade's Mills once conditions are favourable. As of Dec. 30, the ice was too thin and enthusiasts were being reminded to stay off the water. People can call the parks directly to get an update on conditions.

The GRCA said ice fishing will not be offered at Belwood Lake this year "in order to protect the health of the in-reservoir fish population. The water level in the reservoir is low due to the dry weather since the spring."