2025-04-15 H.R. FRINK’S HI-LO BOARDWALK RE-OPENED WITH SUPPORT FROM THE JOHN M. AND BERNICE PARROTT FOUNDATION
A cherished link to nature returns to Quinte Conservation’s H.R. Frink Conservation Area and Outdoor Education Centre with the unveiling of the new Hi-Lo Boardwalk on April 15.
It has been 7 years since the removal of the Hi-Lo Boardwalk at the H.R. Frink. The original structure was loved by the community and held prominence in the Silver Maple swamp for 25 years, before it was removed due to unrepairable damaged and lack of financial support.
Quinte Conservation has been actively fundraising to support the re-build for many years. Through the 2022 Fall Festival, paid parking revenue, a donation line item, and most recently, the 2023 Adopt an Acre campaign, monetary support has slowly been building. It wasn’t until the John M. and Bernice Parrott Foundation stepped up with a $130,000 grant, that the organization was able to break ground in late December 2024.
“It’s amazing to see the Hi-Lo Boardwalk return to the H.R. Frink. We are thankful to the John M. and Bernice Parrott Foundation for helping us get to the finish line, but this also wouldn’t be possible without the support of the community. Community support plays a crucial role in preserving and restoring our green spaces,” says Brad McNevin, CAO at Quinte Conservation.
The original Hi-Lo Boardwalk was used by local school boards and homeschoolers as an avenue for students to travel through, and learn about, a wide range of habitats and ecosystems including succession field, field to forest ecotone, mixed forest, and shrubby swamp.
With the boardwalk now officially opened, visitors will have direct access from the Quill to the Drumlin trails, which will increase ease of access and provide an opportunity to explore and enjoy the breathtaking natural landscapes that the H.R. Frink Conservation Area offers.
By utilizing modern construction techniques, the innovative 63-metre-long structure is built higher, making it better equipped to withstand seasonal fluctuations in water and ice, while the foundation supports an increased weight-bearing capacity. Most importantly, it rests on helical piles which have a minimal footprint on the surrounding swamp and ecosystem —ensuring its resilience and presence can be enjoyed for generations to come.
About Quinte Conservation
Quinte Conservation is a community-based environmental protection agency that serves 18 municipalities in the watersheds of the Moira, Napanee and Salmon Rivers, and Prince Edward County. Our programs, services and working alongside residents create a sustainable ecosystem where people and nature live in harmony. More information about Quinte Conservation is available at www.quinteconservation.ca.
-30-
For immediate inquiries, contact:
Kirsten Geisler
Communications Specialist
613-968-3434 ext. 123
kgeisler@quinteconservation.ca