How can we ensure that Hamilton’s Waterfalls are not ‘loved to death’?
Project Description:
All natural spaces within the City of Hamilton are experiencing increased amounts of visitors (especially during fall colour season and a particularly popular area is the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area for three natural areas; Webster Falls, Tew Falls and Dundas Peak)
The increased volume in visitors has contributed to unwanted visitor behaviours which have been occurring at these natural spaces. Issues like increased garbage, littering, overcrowding, congested roadways and street parking as parking lots fill, trespass on private properties, accidental slips and falls.
This is placing pressures on the environment, nearby residents, community, EMS services, City of Hamilton and Hamilton Conservation Authority staff
How can we ensure a balance is struck between access to nature and overloading our natural spaces and the communities in which they may be found?
What is the current trend for visitor management in natural spaces across Canada?
How can we offer the best visitor experience while protecting the environment, natural habitat, neighbouring communities, and mitigating safety/risk concerns?
Ensuring the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area is not "Loved to Death"?
Students: Andrea, Calvin, Brooklyn, Nolan, Jade
City Staff: Sylvia Sadowski, Planning and Economic Development
Faculty, Course & Students: Karen Dieleman, Redeemer University, CTS 410 Core capstone Experience (5-6 students)
Goal: To prepare recommendations for managing access to Hamilton’s waterfalls that balance the protection of habitat and people with positive visitor experience.
Deliverables: Recommendation report or guidelines, Presentation to Waterfall Motion Working Group at end of course (possibly virtually due to Covid-19 pandemic restrictions), Presentation at CityLab likely virtual