Story Walk launches Saturday, December 5 at Ken Reid Conservation Area

DECEMBER 2, 2020 –Kawartha Conservation and the Kawartha Lakes Public Library are launching the popular Story Walk at Ken Reid Conservation Area this Saturday, December 5, featuring the popular children’s book ‘The Snowy Day’ by Jack Ezra Keats. The walk will be self-guided along the Pond Loop, near the main parking lot.

“We partnered with the Kawartha Lakes Public Library last year as part of Christmas at Ken Reid,” explained Nancy Aspden, Coordinator, Environmental Programs/ GIS Specialist. “It was really popular with the kids and parents, so we are thrilled to be able to do it again this year.”

The Story Walk features the pages of a book, selected by staff at the Kawartha Lakes Public Library, reproduced on larger boards and placed along the Pond Loop Trail at Ken Reid Conservation Area. Family and children can then walk along the trail and experience the story unfold before them in nature.

“We think that reading and physical activity are a great combination,” said Lyndsay Bowen, Library Specialist for Outreach and Community Engagement at the Kawartha Lakes Public Library. “We recognize that a lot of events and activities have been cancelled this year due to Covid-19 so we are thrilled to be able to offer a unique experience in partnership with Kawartha Conservation.

“Come on out with your family to try something new this season, and enjoy the Story Walk, along with the many other walking trails that are available at Ken Reid Conservation Area,” Ms. Bowen added.

“Ken Reid Conservation Area has always been a wonderful place to explore,” added Kristie Virgoe, Director, Stewardship and Conservation Lands. “There has never been a better or more important time to encourage use of our outdoor spaces and natural areas and this partnership with the Kawartha Lakes Public Library is a wonderful opportunity to combine a love of nature with a love of life-long learning and the adventures that wait inside the pages of books.”

Parents, children, and visitors to the Story Walk are asked to follow appropriate social distancing measures while enjoying the walk and all areas of Ken Reid Conservation Area.

Ken Reid Conservation Area is open from sunrise to sunset and is free to visit. Parking is $4 per vehicle.