Sunday was an exciting day at Island Lake Conservation Area, with a launch of fundraising by

the Friends of Island Lake, a Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) walkathon, the announcement

about the footbridge to be built across the lake as part of the pathway system, the announcement of Trillium Foundation grant to Mono and the pending retirement of Bob Shirley as CVC chairman.

The afternoon began with a barbeque and proceeded to speeches by members of the conservation authority and its board.

Mr. Shirley, a 26-year member of the board, started the proceedings with a recap of the trail project's history, reminding those present that the walkway is named for Vicki Barron, "an acknowledge leader in conservation and former general manager of Credit Valley Conservation." He reported that 2.5 kilometres of the shared-use, fully accessible trail has been completed along the south shore of Island Lake.

Mr. Shirley reported that "in addition to the construction of the raised screen pathway, trail amenities include information kiosks, viewing platforms, interpretive signage, donor recognition signs and permanent boardwalks over environmentally sensitive wetland."

He went on to say that the hope is to have a 12.5- kilometre walking and cycling pathway around the entire perimeter of Island Lake that will eventually link up with planned or existing pathway in Orangeville, Caledon and Mono.

When the pathway is completed there will be a pathway accessible to "people of all ages and abilities."

The trail will also provide "year-round access, enjoyment and appreciation to the outstanding natural scenery of Island Lake, while also meeting Credit Valley Conservation's objectives for protection and appreciation of natural systems of the headwaters through the provision of appropriate outdoor recreation and tourism initiatives."

Following introduction of dignitaries, Mr. Shirley went on to introduce the Friends of Island Lake executive: Bob Burnside, Mark Darby, Terry Carter, Doc Gillies, Dr. Warren Hilliard, Laura Ryan, Don Collin, Brenda Teeter, and then introduced members of the Management Committee.

A number of plaques were presented to individuals and organizations for their donations to the cause and thanks were expressed to various companies who have provided help with the construction.

Mono Councillor Laura Ryan then announced receipt by the Town of Mono of a $62,500 grant from The Trillium Foundation for the construction of a pathway from the Hockley Road through the Dufferin County Forest to link up with the stone dam at the north end of the conservation area.

Announcement was also made of Mr. Shirley's retirement from the conservation authority. The audience heard that during his time on the authority he was involved in raising $250,000 for the CVC.