Heartland Forest

Niagara Falls, ON

Public Space

This location is deserving of an award as it is a barrier-free (fully wheelchair accessible) nature trail with a wheelchair accessible treehouse AND playground. It is also FREE ... there is absolutely no cost to visit and walk amongst the protected forest and wetland areas. At any time you can see a variety of animal and plant species. It is just gorgeous there.

Its purpose is to be accesible to all, but serves to educate the community on protection and conservation. Schools use it for trips and a variety of groups (i.e.. fungus collecting clubs) meet and use the trail system.

It can be utilized all year round, and should be, to fully appreciate the beauty. It protects and enhances the natural environment, and encourages those in the community to respect the space. It is open for all members of the community to use, regardless of ability, and aims to encourage even those in wheelchairs to use the facilities. It promotes a sense of community by offering a variety of seasonal activities (pumpkins at Halloween, tractor rides, wetlands experiences) at little or no cost, making it accessible for all.

Schools & educators have served as champions of this space, but the largest supporter is Dan Bouwman who owns, operates and encourages the use of this land.