First "Legends of the Great Swamp" tour slated for this Saturday

Saugeen Conservation, in conjunction with Tourism GreyBruceSimcoe or RT07, Ontario, Yours to Discover, and the Municipality of Brockton have been developing a new tourism product that will centre around the famous Greenock Swamp, located in Bruce County (Brockton).

The swamp is southern Ontario’s largest forested wetland. It is also a Class 1 Wetland which is the highest classification afforded to wetlands by the province.

“I get calls on a regular basis from individuals and groups wanting a tour of this fascinating area,”says Shannon Wood of Saugeen Conservation (Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority).

“Not only is it incredibly significant in terms of its size and natural features, but there’s something about its mysterious and unique past," says Wood. "It’s the history, the legends, the folklore and the incredible stories - stories about people disappearing in the swamp never to be seen again, or others who have seen a mysterious green light shining in the bowels of the swamp! There’s also the man-eating plants and quick-sand. And we certainly can’t forget the tall tales associated with moonshine production during the days of prohibition.”

“We have a great deal of incredible history in our own backyard and many times we don’t realize the tourism potential,” says Kim Clarke, tourism experience development specialist with RT07. “This is an excellent venue that provides rich history, educational value, mystery, intrigue and so much more. It’s great to explore our rich history. There is so much to share and to explore in our own unique area.”

RT07 provided Saugeen Conservation with seed money through Ontario, Yours to Discover, to develop a ‘tourism product’ about this amazing feature.

“This is an important first step to build on the great work the conservation authority has been doing to recognize our pioneer heritage,” says Brockton deputy mayor Dan Gierzack, a director with Saugeen Conservation. “There is tremendous value in our unique natural features and heritage so we welcome the conservation authority’s efforts to explore them with local residents and visitors.”

The first "Legends of the Great Swamp" tour is scheduled to take place this Saturday, July 22, from 2-7 p.m. It includes a guided tour of the area (complete with stories and folklore), a stopover at the historical Chepstow Inn, a stroll along the unique floating boardwalk system, and a full-course meal prepared by a local ladies group.

Tickets can be purchased on-line at Eventbrite (and search for Legends of the Great Swamp), by calling the main office at 519-367-3040, Ext. 229, or by E-mail at publicinfo@svca.on.ca