Preservation for future generations
As we approach the current public consultation phase for the Ontario Reformatory Lands, I’d like to provide some input about my experience with this unique and vital property. First of all, my memories of the OR go back to when I was a small child, growing up in Cambridge. Our family would travel to Guelph and have summer picnics on the lovely lawns gracing the banks of Clythe Creek. It is a valuable resource in our community that needs to be preserved. I would like to see this property protected for future generations, allow for the creation of an ecological park , and devote a portion of it to educate members of the public about the unique ecology of the area. Among other things there could be: raised garden beds; greenhouses; farmers' markets; hiking trails; and pollinator gardens. The superintendent’s house could serve as a much-needed community meeting space and interpretive center. A fine example of such adaptive reuse would be the Evergreen Brickworks in Toronto.
As a Guelph artist, I have visited the site numerous times to sketch, paint, photograph and have led groups on art talks throughout the property. The natural landscape provides a visually stunning panorama in all seasons. During the pandemic, the importance of this property’s healing power was evident with families able to enjoy the property for picnics, dog walks and recreational hiking. In meeting some of the people visiting the property I have learned that it has been a destination for those living out of town, including KW, Toronto, Mississauga, and Barrie. This valuable site could serve as a tourist draw for all of southern Ontario and beyond. When John Lyle designed the property, taking into account the agricultural fields, beautiful flower gardens, sparkling ponds, cascading waterfalls and large variety of strategically planted trees, it was as a whole. Everything was designed for the thousand acre site. I would like to see the property preserved in its entirety. It is a living museum and tribute to the Cities Beautiful Movement that was taking place all over North America. Landscape architects created natural spaces for people in crowded cities so that they could experience the restorative benefits of being surrounded by beauty. As it grows, Guelph needs more green space and recreational areas. With more and more development taking place in our city, particularly in the Ward, it is crucial to preserve nearby natural refuges for people and animals.
I hope City Council will hear the needs of the community and create a plan not only for present needs but for future generations.
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