Lacombe County has announced that they will be holding a grand opening celebration of Burns Nature Park, located on the east side of Sylvan Lake, at the very west end of Aspelund Road.

Burns Nature Park is a 20-acre nature sanctuary that was donated to Lacombe County by James and Patricia Burns, longtime and active members of our community.

The Burns family realized the immense environmental value of their family property and decided to make it available for public enjoyment while conserving its natural features for the benefit of future generations. The Park is now owned and stewarded by Lacombe County and features hiking trails, a breathtaking view of Sylvan Lake, interpretive signage, and bench areas. 

“We are so pleased to offer this area to people of all ages and interests so they can enjoy the outdoors in our beautiful county,” said Reeve Barb Shepherd. “We thank the Burns family for their generous contribution to the residents and visitors of the Sylvan Lake area.” 

Director of Planning Services Dale Freitag noted, “Burns Nature Park will continue to provide immense ecosystem service benefits to the Sylvan Lake area for generations to come. The Park features a poplar forest, riparian shoreline, and wetland area with numerous species of plants and animals that characterize Sylvan Lake’s surrounding terrestrial ecosystem. We express immense gratitude to the Burns family for allowing us to showcase this ecosystem for public education and enjoyment.”

County Manager Tim Timmons extended an open invitation to all to attend the celebrations of the Park, saying, “On behalf of Lacombe County, we invite all members of the community out on September 8, 2023 at noon to celebrate the opening of this Park with us. We also encourage our partner municipalities around Sylvan Lake to join us in these celebrations.”

GRAND OPENING DETAILS

Burns Nature Park (September 8, 2023 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.)

Location: West end of Aspelund Road/Township Road 39-4 (civic address 2019 Township Road 39-4)

The grand opening of Burns Nature Park will begin with a free barbeque lunch for all at 12 p.m. The ceremony will begin at 1:00 p.m. with the presence of the Burns family, County Council and staff, elected officials from different governments, and representatives from the partner municipalities around Sylvan Lake. At 1:30 p.m., the Park will be open for the public to explore! There will be prizes for all attendees.

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