News

New Huron Natural Area survey and walking tour, plus progress updates

14 July 2025

Thanks for your interest in the Huron Natural Area Stewardship Plan. There are two new ways to help shape the future of the area: a survey and walking tour. We’ve also shared an update on our progress towards a vision and key directions.

New survey now open

Share your experiences and ideas for the area to help us understand community priorities and enhance this vibrant space. Your answers will help us understand what matters most to people and what we can improve. This will help the Huron Natural Area stay a vibrant and welcoming place rich in nature and wildlife. Open now until Aug. 31, 2025.

Community Walking Tour

Aug. 7, 2025

6:30 to 8 p.m.

Meet at Huron Natural Area Nature Center

Join us for a guided tour to learn about our collaboration with Indigenous communities and future plans to create a stewardship and ecological restoration plan for the area.

Registration is free and optional but helps us plan for the right number of people.

Can’t make it? An interactive self-guided tour will be installed by Aug. 1, featuring posters with QR codes throughout the park that provide information about the project.

Progress update

We are making significant strides on the vision and key directions for the Huron Natural Area (HNA). Here are ongoing updates for this phase of the project.
  • Timeline item 1 - active

    Biodiversity and ecosystem characterization

    Dillon Consulting is currently conducting comprehensive seasonal inventories of the flora and fauna within HNA's diverse ecosystems. This ongoing effort is laying the groundwork for a detailed characterization report that will guide future conservation efforts. Additionally, contributions from the iNaturalist community are being reviewed to gain further insights into the biodiversity and ecological health of the area.

  • Timeline item 2 - active

    Engagement and Indigenous placemaking

    With guidance and support from SOAR Consulting, the city is actively engaging with the urban Indigenous community to discuss ways to shape Indigenous placemaking and land stewardship at HNA. This dialogue includes exploring the suitability of the site for Indigenous-specific amenities to support ceremonies, teachings, and cultural practices, as well as discussing the protection and enhancement of significant plant communities and species.

  • Timeline item 3 - active

    Cultural inclusivity and signage updates

    Discussions are being held regarding the updating of signage to include Indigenous languages, reflecting the cultural significance and promoting inclusivity within HNA.

  • Timeline item 4 - active

    Ongoing research and knowledge integration

    Continuous research and efforts to build relationships and knowledge are a priority. The city is actively seeking out "braiding champions" to collaborate on integrating Western and Indigenous ways of knowing into a guiding framework, ensuring a holistic and inclusive approach to managing HNA.

Thank you

We want to sincerely thank everyone who was able to attend the recent Walks & Talks and contribute their time, knowledge, and perspectives. Your voices are deeply appreciated and will help shape the next steps. A “What We Heard” summary will be shared in the coming weeks to reflect the input and insights gathered.