I Love My (Neighbour)Hood

I am a relatively recent add to the Forest Heights area (2017) but I absolutely love the nature near my streets especially the West Heights Park, Trails and Pond. I have walked these trails almost every day for 7 years and count myself lucky to have this beautiful area out my front door. The health of the pond (having taught Environmental Science for a few years) is a real concern, and when I hear that the declining of the pond has been going on for 10 + years (with very little action) I am quite disappointed. There are very few areas like this and I feel like Kitchener should be doing what it can to preserve it. Over my time here I know I have seen a great deal of wildlife (ducks, geese, fish, turtles, squirrels, chipmunks) but do feel like there have been less sightings in the last few years.

I see all ages and types of people using the trail and echo what some other people have shared - a fully paved and safe walkway for our seniors from Lanark LTC should be a priority since outdoor time in nature is so important. More seating (benches, picnic tables ?) would also be a great additions as would a garbage can in a central location. There is a garbage can up the path BUT we all know that some ppl will not take the extra steps to use them so one right at the pond would be great.

I know I would take part and volunteer if there was anything that local people could safely do in order to improve things and I think others would as well. We really do love our Pond/Trail/Park and everyone we show it to admires it BUT the health issues need to be addressed ASAP so that we have it for many years to come.

Perhaps some beautification projects could be proposed to the nearby schools (West Heights ? Saint Marks ? Driftwood ?) and students could become involved in some projects that would help them also feel ownership and pride in this area so that the next generation would see the value in taking care of this beautiful natural space.