OTTAWA, March 4, 2026 – Imagine a boardwalk where everyone can experience the beauty of forest and marshland up close; a place where families, seniors and visitors of all abilities can explore and enjoy nature. Thanks to funding from the Government of Ontario, the Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation (RVCF) can make that vision a reality by completing the final 300 metres of its accessible boardwalk at Baxter Conservation Area.
The $57,935 in funding comes from the province’s Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone (EASE) Grant, which offers up to $60,000 for small capital projects that focus on making outdoor spaces, buildings and housing more accessible.
“Ensuring Ontario’s public spaces are accessible and welcoming for everyone is a priority for our government,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “Investments like the EASE Grant help communities create environments where older adults and people with disabilities can participate fully in community life. We are pleased to support the Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation in its efforts to improve accessibility in local conservation areas.”
This last section will feature a wide, bounce-free boardwalk with gentle slopes, education areas for visiting school groups, frequent resting points and seamless connections to amenities. It completes a 710-metre accessible trail that continues Baxter’s transformation into Eastern Ontario’s most inclusive nature destination, supporting active, independent living. The project builds on previous upgrades, including an impressive 100-metre marshland bridge with education platforms.
Baxter is already a popular destination for families, seniors, students and care facilities, welcoming 75,000 visitors and 8,000 outdoor education students annually. This final boardwalk section ensures people of all abilities can enjoy the outdoors safely and comfortably.
“This investment in a new accessible trail at the Baxter Conservation Area is about making sure everyone in Carleton riding has the opportunity to experience the beauty of our local natural spaces,” said George Darouze, MPP for Carleton. “By improving accessibility, we are removing barriers and creating a more inclusive community where residents and visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the outdoors.
The project was envisioned by the Nature for All Committee (NFA), who, working with RVCF and the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA), embarked on this initiative in 2017 to make Baxter a nature destination that is accessible and welcoming to all.
<>Mike Nemesvary, former Chair and current member of the Nature for All Committee, said the committee is proud to have spearheaded this initiative. “Our goal has always been to ensure everyone, regardless of ability, can connect with and enjoy these natural spaces safely and meaningfully. This final boardwalk section brings that vision closer to reality.”
Construction on the boardwalk will take place this spring and summer, with the RVCA overseeing implementation and long-term maintenance, ensuring minimal upkeep and lasting accessibility.
