Stewardship efforts continue at JJ Collett Natural Area

LACOMBE COUNTY -- A new trail for residents with accessibility challenges is being constructed at the JJ Collett Natural Area.

This 256-hectare natural space is located near the border between the counties of Ponoka and Lacombe, just south of Morningside and the Wolf Creek Golf Course. The JJ Collett Natural Area Foundation is responsible for stewardship of the area, including trail repairs and maintenance. As part of their ongoing work, the foundation is installing a new trail to accommodate residents and visitors with mobility challenges.

"We've had a few people call us over the years and ask if we have a trail that's accessible for wheelchairs and whatnot, and we've never had one," said Foundation President Jack Surbey. "We've talked about it for a number of years. The process of doing the trail has taken a while because of the need to get permits from the government."

The new trail will benefit residents and visitors who use wheelchairs, walkers, canes, or any other mobility aids to safely traverse the natural area without worrying about tripping hazards such as tree roots. In addition to this work, Surbey says they've also undertaken upgrades to trail #1. 

"It was almost getting dangerous because there were some places there that were very steep," said Surbey. "So, we just re-routed that trail and made a new little trail that doesn't have that slope and bypassed that section. Originally, we were going to put a little wood wall there, but this saves us a lot of trouble and makes it safe."

The JJ Collett Natural Area consists of aspen parkland, wetlands, and grasslands, with over 18 km of well-marked trails. The area is also home to diverse wildlife, including moose, deer, beavers, and a variety of bird species. It features a range of plants like wild strawberries and marsh marigold.

The area is a popular spot for outdoor activities year-round, including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter.