COVID-19 UPDATE #21-04 Outdoor Recreational Amenities and Dorset Tower

For Immediate Release

Algonquin Highlands, Ontario
Tuesday, April 20, 2021
2:00 pm

Release #21-04

Subject: Township of Algonquin Highlands COVID-19 Update - Outdoor Recreation Amenities and Dorset Tower

The Township of Algonquin Highlands remains under a declared State of Emergency.

The Algonquin Highlands Emergency Control Group continues its assessment of the continually-evolving COVID-19 pandemic situation and its potential effects on Algonquin Highlands.

This update includes information regarding outdoor recreation amenities and the Dorset Tower.

New Information:

The Township continues to prepare for the opening and operation of municipal facilities and programs however, the changing Provincial Orders have resulted in disruptions in usual preparations such as the hiring and training of seasonal staff which, in turn, can affect the implementation of annually scheduled work. In order to provide safe and enjoyable experiences for the public, Algonquin Highlands will open and operate its facilities and programs as soon as it’s safe to do so for both the public and staff, not necessarily immediately upon a change in Provincial Orders.

The following outdoor recreation amenities are closed:

• Tennis, pickleball and basketball courts,
• sports fields,
• picnic tables and pavilions,
• baseball diamonds,
• outdoor fitness equipment.

Haliburton Highlands Water Trails:

The campsites associated with the Haliburton Highlands Water Trails will remain closed and no new reservations will be taken until further notice. All existing campsite reservations up to and including May 20, 2021 will be canceled. Reservation holders will be contacted by a customer service representative to process a refund.

Dorset Tower:

Based on the current provincially mandated stay at home order, which is in effect until May 20, the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower will not open on May 17 as previously planned. The Township’s emergency operations control group will continue to review this based on the timelines associated with the stay at home order.

Playgrounds:

Playgrounds can be used by children if both the children and their parents can maintain a physical distance of at least two metres from others (other than a person who is a member of the same household, a member of one other household who lives alone, or a caregiver for any member of either household).

Algonquin Highlands Hiking Trails:

Remain open.

Reminders:

Frequently Asked Questions:  Find out how Township operations have been impacted by COVID-19 on our Frequently Asked Questions page

Other Questions:If you cannot find the answer to your question on the Frequently Asked Questions page you may email your question to [email protected] or call 705-489-2379 ext. 369 and leave a message with your questions.  Your email or phone call will be returned during normal business hours 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday.  If your phone call or email is an emergency, please call 911.

We thank the public for their understanding as we work toward keeping our community safe and healthy in this uncertain time.

Contact Information:
Mike French
Fire Chief/CEMC
Township of Algonquin Highlands
(705) 489-2379 ext. 369
[email protected]

Dawn Newhook
Clerk/Emergency Information Officer
Township of Algonquin Highlands
(705 489-2379 ext, 369
[email protected]