Several Conservation Areas received upgrades to visitor facilities in 2001.

Sensational new pavilions were built at both Little Trout Bay and Hurkett Cove Conservation Areas. The pavilions will offer shade and shelter to visitors or large groups using these sites. The view of Lake Superior is spectacular.

Funding for the pavilions was provided by The Great Lakes Heritage Coast Project of Ontario's Living Legacy initiative (GLHC). One goal of the GLHC is the conservation and protection of the significant features of the coast. The Ontario Living Legacy Trust partnered with Lakehead Conservation to build facilities that will help the public enjoy the coast while learning to value its natural beauty. Lakehead Conservation has been providing this type of experience for many years.

Interpretive displays were also funded by GLHC. Map panels in the two new pavilions orient visitors to trails and the local area. Exhibit panels at the pavilions and Mission Island Marsh and Silver Harbour Conservation Areas discuss the GLHC's objectives and location. A map shows the location of Conservation Areas, Provincial Parks and other protected areas. Photos and captions highlight nearby attractions that people may also want to visit.

The trail at Hurkett Cove Conservation Area was re-established. The area is excellent for birdwatching and the trail allows travel along the length of the sandspit to see the wetland in the Cove. Washroom facilities were also improved at Hurkett Cove Conservation Area through GLHC funding.

Work continued at Cascades Conservation Area with the placement of four additional map panels out on the trail network. The panels were funded by Gear Up For Outdoors, Fort William Rotary Club and Lakehead Conservation Foundation. There are now five trail maps at key intersections and a large map at the pavilion. Picnic tables were added to the picnic site at the area entrance.

"It is important to understand that these are capital improvements that have been funded by special programs and contributions," stated Bill Bartley, Lakehead Conservation Chairman. "The day-to-day operating costs for insurance, taxes and maintenance must still be covered by user fees, rental revenues, lease agreements and other sources."