The City of Waterloo and the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) are in the process of transferring 123-acres of GRCA land to the city, and some of that land could be used as an Indigenous gathering space.
Details of the partnership were announced Monday, which would include putting the ownership of the Laurel Creek Nature Centre in the hands of the city.
“This environmentally significant property will be maintained as parkland and community green space, while the City explores opportunities to develop a portion of the property as an Indigenous gathering space,” read an update from the city.
In the meantime, the nature centre will remain public parkland, and community green space.
The location was established back in the 1970s, and has been used as an outdoor and environmental education opportunity for students.
“The GRCA is immensely grateful to the City of Waterloo for its support in helping ensure the Environmental Education Program continues to serve the Waterloo Region community,” said GRCA Chair John Challinor II.
“The transfer and proposed operational agreement will support a smooth transition of the program over the next five years, while creating opportunities for continued collaboration.”
Waterloo Mayor Dorothy McCabe said she is looking forward to consultations with members of local Indigenous communities for the future of the space.
“I’m happy we will continue to preserve these environmentally significant lands” said McCabe.
The agreement between the city and GRCA is set to be finalized by fall 2026.
