SVCA making upgrades to Stoney Island Conservation Area

The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) is making critical improvements to the Stoney Island Conservation Area, located on Bruce County Road 23 (B-line) north of the Town of Kincardine, thanks to a $100,000 grant through FedDev Ontario Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario 

Announced in October, 2024, this investment is enhancing accessibility and amenities to create a more inclusive and sustainable outdoor recreation experience for visitors.

The project focuses on strengthening Ontario’s tourism sector by improving visitor access, safety, and engagement in natural spaces. Stoney Island Conservation Area is a key destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and skiing, attracting visitors from across the region.

Project highlights:
 

• Bridge replacements – Five existing bridges in deteriorating condition have been removed and replaced with new, safer structures, ensuring secure passage for visitors.
• Parking lot expansion – The existing parking lot is currently being expanded and regraded with proper aggregate to enhance capacity, improve stability, and facilitate snow removal, addressing long-standing accessibility challenges.
• Inclusive facilities – A gender-neutral privy will be installed to ensure that all visitors have access to appropriate facilities, reinforcing the SVCA’s commitment to inclusivity in outdoor spaces.

“These upgrades at Stoney Island Conservation Area are a major step forward in creating a safer, more accessible, and visitor-friendly conservation area,” says Erik Downing, general manager and secretary/treasurer at the SVCA. “With this support from FedDev Ontario, we can continue to enhance our natural assets while providing meaningful conservation and tourism amenities that benefit both the environment and local communities.”

By improving key infrastructure and increasing capacity, the SVCA aims to extend the tourism season, attract new visitors, and foster economic growth in rural areas. These enhancements are helping to ensure that Stoney Island Conservation Area remains a premier outdoor destination for years to come.



A leashed dog and its owner cross the newly-installed bridge at Stoney Island Conservation Area in the Municipality of Kincardine