The Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve’s network of trails is popular with outdoor enthusiasts. (chilliwackblueheron.com photo)

Provincial funding goes to Chilliwack’s Great Blue Heron Reserve for trail upgrades

The popular destination saw even more traffic in 2020 as people headed outdoors during the pandemic

A popular trail network in Chilliwack will be getting an upgrade thanks to provincial government funding.

The Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve Society is one of 53 non-profit organizations dividing up $5,000,000 from the capital project stream of the Community Gaming Grants program.

The society will receive $44,846 to enhance trails in the 325 acre park, trails that have experienced increased usage during the COVID pandemic.

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“Since the beginning of the pandemic, more and more people have turned to visiting local parks and green spaces to relax, get some air, and be closer to nature,” said Dan Coulter, NDP MLA for Chilliwack. “This support from the province will make it easier for more people to safely access one of the most beautiful outdoor spots in Chilliwack.”

There are six trails in the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve, including a pair of 3.6 kilometre loops. Outdoor activity was one of the areas prioritized this year as the government evaluated applicants for gaming grant funding, with preference given to not-for-profits facing an increased demand for services or requiring modifications to programs and facilities to meet public health and safety guidelines.


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Chilliwack Progress