A partnership involving the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation is creating a commemorative wooded area south of Grand Bend.
It is at Klondyke park and is in partnership with the Municipality of Lambton Shores and the Lakeshore Eco-Network.
Secretary of the foundation, Abigail Gutteridge, says thanks to the newly created area, Grand Bend will now have a space where people can create living memorials.
“These are trees that can be planted in memory of a loved one or to commemorate an event. There are now several groves that have been planted there and a lovely walk through and an arbour and it was originally started in honour of Hank Winters of the Grand Bend area,” said Gutteridge.
The Klondyke Commemorative Woods was originally started in honour of Hank Winters of the Grand Bend area who was one of the founders of the Lakeshore Eco-Network.
Beyond being living memorials, Gutteridge says the area helps the environment.
“There's so many benefits to planting trees. They have environment benefits, they create wildlife habitat and can protect the soil, but it's a great way to recognize milestones and loved ones who are no longer with us and it builds a legacy for the future and for the community,” added Gutteridge.