Fall Forest Festival and BBQ co-hosted by the Hortons and Pyetts on Saturday September 16, 2023
Come out for our Fall Forest walk, centered on woodland restoration, and BBQ generously co-hosted by two families this year. The first property we will visit is the Horton’s and the second will be the Pyett’s where the BBQ will be held.
Registration due Thursday, Sept 14th.
Proper footwear is recommended for both properties. There will be no washrooms available to attendees at either property, however a washroom at the Wellandport gas station can be used on the way to the second property.
For the BBQ, please bring your own cutlery, cups/ mug and lawn chairs. Food contributions are welcomed by attendees.
Short summary, timeline and driving directions of the two properties:
10:00 Walking Tour at Yvonne & Ian Horton’s
Address: 649 E Chippawa Rd, Wellandport, ON L0R 2J0
Please Park along Wiley Road near the corner of Boyle Road.
The Hortons 15 acre property was formerly farmland and was decided by the landowners to take back the acreage and plant trees to make it feel more like an extension of their backyard for their kids and future grandkids. The property was machine planted in 2016 with 10,600 bareroot seedlings making this tree planting still a young forest. Come see and hear about the wonderful recreational opportunities & plantation management that have combined to truly make their forest fun for the whole family. The walk is flat with mowed trails. The family participates in the Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program (MFTIP).
Approximately 25 minute drive to next property.
11:30 Walking Tour at Phylis & Lloyd Pyett’s
Address: Pyett Spring & Alignment, 9381 Regional Rd 65, Caistor Centre, ON L0R 1E0
The Pyett’s 59 acre property was also formerly farmland and has undergone many restoration projects over the years including man made wetlands, several tree plantings, inclusion of habitat structures and a trail network. The Pyetts wanted an environmental oasis that they could “come home to” and enjoy into their retirement. The Pyetts felt the property was void of any topographical or natural heritage features besides the Scots pine along the western edge of the property. Since 1992, Mr. Pyett constructed six small to medium irregular sized ponds, scattered across the property. The ponds were the beginning of the property’s naturalization and immediately established waterfowl and aquatic habitat and recreational opportunities. This is possibility one of the most successful best man-made wetland projects in the Niagara Peninsula. The walk is flat with mowed trails. The family also participates in MFTIP.
A lovely BBQ will follow the Pyett walk. Everyone is welcomed. So come & enjoy some exercise, wonderful stewardship, delicious food & great company!!
Any further questions please contact Loretta Shields at niagarawoodlot@gmail.com.
