McKell Conservation Area

Located in the east end of Regina, McKell Wascana Conservation Park is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. Its interpretive signage and abundance of wildlife which makes it a great place for kids, while it also makes it a great place for a sunset. 

With its sprawling 171 acres of carefully-preserved land, this park is a testament to the beauty of Saskatchewan’s native prairie and wetland habitats. For those seeking an outdoor adventure, the park’s trails provide an unparalleled experience. 

McKell boasts 4 kilometers of groomed nature trails, each winding through diverse landscapes and offering varying levels of hiking difficulty. The trails are meticulously designed to cater to both the casual stroller and the avid hiker. 

• The Prairie Loop: This easy trail meanders through the heart of the park, showcasing the vast expanse of the prairie. Visitors can expect a leisurely walk with minimal elevation changes, making it perfect for families and individuals of all ages.
  

• The Wetland Way: A moderate trail that takes you closer to the aquatic ecosystems of the park. With boardwalks and viewing platforms, this trail offers a chance to observe the wetland’s flora and fauna up close without disturbing the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
  

• The Woodland Path: For those seeking a bit more challenge, this trail offers a slightly more rugged terrain as it cuts through the dense woodlands. The path is well-marked, but the occasional incline and uneven ground call for sturdy footwear. 

This conservation park is a haven for biodiversity. The prairie grasses sway in the wind, dotted with the vibrant colors of wildflowers like the prairie crocus and the black-eyed Susan. The wetlands are home to cattails and bulrushes, providing shelter and food for the park’s wildlife. 

Birdwatchers will delight in the variety of species that call the park home. From the haunting call of the loon to the cheerful chirp of the chickadee, the park’s bird life is rich and varied. Migratory birds often stop at the park, making it a prime spot for sighting rare species. 

The park is also home to an array of mammals, reptiles, and insects. White-tailed deer can be spotted in the early mornings and late evenings, while garter snakes bask in the sun along the trails. Butterflies flutter among the flowers, adding a splash of color to the greenery. 

A visit is an opportunity to reconnect with nature. The entry plaza welcomes visitors with educational displays, setting the tone for an informative and enjoyable visit. The amphitheater hosts various programs, allowing guests to learn about the park’s conservation efforts and the importance of preserving natural habitats. 

The dock, currently being refurbished, is a favorite spot for pond dipping, where children and adults alike can discover the aquatic life that thrives below the surface. Benches are strategically placed along the trails, providing spots to rest and reflect. 

The park was made possible through a conservation easement which was donated by the McKell family: Robert, Barbara, Doug and Shirley McKell. Through this agreement, the owners of the land donate or sell certain property rights specific to conservation efforts such as their rights to subdivide or develop the land. 

Even if the land is passed down or sold, the conservation agreement remains legally binding, which ensures the protection and conservation of the land. As one of the plaques states: “By placing this conservation easement on their land, (now the southern portion of the park), the McKell family is preserving this natural area for wildlife and people to enjoy today and leaving a legacy for generations to come.” 

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a family looking for a weekend outing, the park’s trails offer something for everyone. With each step, visitors are reminded of the delicate beauty of our natural world and the responsibility we share in its preservation. So lace up your boots, grab your binoculars, and embark on a journey through one of Regina’s most cherished natural landmarks. 

If you are interested, there is more information about the McKell Wascana Conservation Park and those who contributed to its excellence: 

McKell Wascana Trail, Saskatchewan, Canada – 14 Reviews, Map | AllTrails
http://www.ducks.ca/places/saskatchewan/mckell-wascana-conservation-park/
https://www.nature.org/about-us/private-lands-conservation/conservation-easements/what-are-conservation-easements.xml 

Discovering McKell Wascana Conservation Park | Saskatchewan Trails Association (sasktrails.ca) 

Walk in the McKell Wascana Conservation Park (maruniku.ca) 

This article is part of the SaskTrails Storyteller Series. Thank you to the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association and Trans Canada Trail for supporting this initiative. 

The STA is partnering with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Parks, Culture, and Sport with funding support from the Trans Canada Trail to enhance the trails at Wascana Trails and at Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.

Wascana All Person Nature Interpretive Trail and Viewing Point

The project at Wascana Trails consists of three elements:

1. Creation of Canada’s first “All Persons” nature interpretive trail that will be suitable for individuals with mobility and visual challenges. It will also be appropriate for strollers, families, seniors, and anyone who wants to enjoy nature. The approximately 550 meters long nature trail will include kiosks and interpretive panels as well as signage for the visually impaired.

2. Wascana Trails has a natural land protrusion that extends east from the parking lot to a beautiful vista. Repairs will be done to the Viewing Area and the 147-meter-long pathway to create Wheelchair accessibility and add features for those with visual impartments. A railing will wrap around the front of the hill to prevent people from walking down the slope.

3. Refurbishing 2400 meters of the existing Trans Canada Trail and its connectors

Cypress Hills Trails –Trans Canada Trail and Feeder Trails

The project at Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park contains the following elements:

1. Various enhancements and repairs will be done to existing trails including the creation of backcountry picnic sites, trail reroutes, boardwalk and footbridge replacements, tree removal, and extensions of existing trail pathways.

2. New Trail Head Signage that includes pertinent info and trail waypoints. Two new trailheads will be created in the West Block of the park at Conglomerate Cliff and another area.

3. Creation of a new path as an “All Season Trail” for winter activity access

A key aspect of the STA’s mission is to assist local trail groups in developing, maintaining, and marketing their trails. Since funding is essential in any project, various potential funding sources, including grants, are summarized below for those needing additional resources.

Saskatchewan Trails Association Funding Programs

MEMBERS GRANT PROGRAM – Funding grants of up to $1,000 are available through an application process (annual deadline: Jan. 31). The purpose of this program is to assist members in maintaining or enhancing trails. Its focus is on building new trails or undergoing maintenance projects such as updating maps, fixing signs, purchasing maintenance tools, or adding GPS capabilities. The STA Member Grant Program is available to current members of the STA. Other factors in the adjudication process include the length of membership and long-term commitment to the STA. The application document can be found at: https://sasktrails.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Trail_Grant_Program-1.pdf.

PARTNERSHIP INITIATIVE PROGRAM – Third-party funding is allocated to dedicated trail projects. These funds are obtained through partners willing to spend dedicated funds on trails such as the Trans Canada Trail and the National Trails Coalition.

THE CHARITABLE STATUS PROGRAM – Fundraising assistance is available by allowing donations to be made to a project through the Saskatchewan Trails Association. This option works by giving a donation to the STA, who will ensure it is delivered to the program of your choice. Charitable receipts are available.

Trans Canada Trail Projects:

Applications for funding through the Capital Improvement Plan are accepted on an ongoing basis (no deadlines but all projects must be completed by March 31, 2022). Prior to applying, groups are required to contact Trans Canada Trail and the project must be ready for implementation, with all requirements in place (plans, permits, approvals, etc.). Detailed information can be found at https://transcanadatrail.my.salesforce.com/sfc/p/#410000006Oq9/a/2M000001EHBz/wCG26_hOkheiROA95gthhBf4niFx04El.rn_gLhJ1CE.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR CONSULTATION, DESIGN PLANNING OR STUDIES– TCT may provide financial support for projects such as engineering, environmental impact assessments, etc., up to 50% of the eligible expenses. The maximum contribution for these types of projects is limited to $30,000 and all studies that receive a contribution from TCT must be a precursor to a construction project.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR CONSTRUCTION – The TCT may fund the construction of a project up to 35% of eligible expenses. The maximum contribution amounts are limited to:

• Trail construction (without infrastructure): $ 75,000 / km
• Major infrastructure (bridge, retaining wall): $ 250,000 / unit
• Minor infrastructure and amenities (parking lot, washroom, access point): $ 50,000

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR TRAIL SECTOR INITIATIVES – TCT may provide financial support for Trail maintenance projects, or other projects that support the trail sector and local communities on the Trail, up to 100% of the eligible expenses. The maximum contribution for these types of projects is limited to $5,000, per year, per group. This limit can increase to $10,000 in the case of unique regional or structured projects, carried out with other partners.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR SIGNAGE AND WAYFINDING – Different funding programs are available for installation and maintenance of Wayfinders, regulatory and safety signage, trailheads, and interpretive panels. The maximum contribution from the TCT ranges from $50 – $1000 depending on the type of signage.

Other Funding Opportunities:

PARKS FOR ALL ACTION GRANT – Funded by Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association, applicants can apply for grants to a maximum of $2,000. The grant is a commitment to creating Canadian parklands and waters that support healthy nature and healthy people. Applications should clearly outline how the initiative will engage people and result in long term benefits. Initiatives may include events, programs, studies, and projects. One application will be accepted from an Active SPRA member: Cities, Towns, Rural Municipalities, First Nation Communities, Provincial Recreation Associations, Tribal Councils, Sport/Culture/Recreation Districts, Métis Region and Regional/Urban Park Authorities. Although the application for 2021 has closed, further information can be found at: http://spra.blob.core.windows.net/docs/Parks-for-All-Grant-2021.pdf.

COMMUNITY GRANT PROGRAM – The Community Initiatives Fund (CIF) provides a grant of up to $25,000 per local program or $50,000 per provincial program to support: Healthy growth and development of children and youth; Individual and community wellbeing; Non-profit and community leadership. Applicants must be an incorporated Saskatchewan non-profit organization whose primary purpose and activities are to benefit Saskatchewan communities; or A municipality, health region, school or school board proposing community based, community-led programs; and be in good standing with the CIF. The deadline for application is October 1, 2021. Further information on the program can be found at: http://www.cifsask.org/uploads/Community%20Grant%20Program%20Guidelines%20-%20Dec2020.pdf.

CANADA REVITALIZATION FUND – Contributions will be determined based on the minimum amount required to carry out a project and may represent up to 75% of total eligible costs. The fund aims to provide support to adapt community spaces and assets so that they may be used safely in accordance with local public-health guidelines; and build or improve community infrastructure to encourage Canadians to re-engage in and explore their communities and regions. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations or charities, any municipal or regional government, or bodies providing infrastructure services to communities, and Indigenous-led not-for-profits or organizations. Further information on the program can be found at: https://www.wd-deo.gc.ca/eng/20175.asp.