The Grand Bend and area community celebrated an extraordinary gift on Saturday, June 15, 2024. Peter Warner and his late wife Esther donated 55 acres in Grand Bend to the Huron Tract Land Trust Conservancy. Named the Warner Preserve, this legacy protects a significant natural area comprised of mature Carolinian forest, meadows, and wetlands.
The property, originally named Merrywood Farm, was purchased by Peter and Esther Warner in 1988 from two of Grand Bend’s historic figures, Eric and Ella McIlroy. The McIlroys owned and operated the famous Lakeview Casino during the days of the big band era, and raised and trained racehorses.
Over the years Peter and Esther worked hard to improve the natural features of the property, and planted more than 10,000 native trees.
“We just fell in love with the place,” says Peter. “We felt so lucky to live in this beautiful oasis, right in the heart of Grand Bend.”
Although this property was slated by the Municipality of Lambton Shores for future residential development, Peter and Esther had different ideas. Their vision was that the property be protected as a refuge for wildlife and nature, and used for outdoor nature education for children and adults.
To help develop their vision, Peter and Esther approached the Huron Tract Land Trust Conservancy. The mission of the Land Trust is to hold and conserve natural areas and protect them for future generations.
“We live in a critical time when precious natural areas are under pressure,” says Land Trust Chair Max Morden. “We’re so happy that we’ve been able to help Peter and Esther realize their dream.”
Peter is a charter member of the Rotary Club of Grand Bend, which became an enthusiastic community partner, providing seed money to get the project off the ground. At Autumn Indulgence, the Club’s gala fundraiser, a further $55,000 was raised from the community to create an arboretum. The newly planted arboretum now includes more than 70 species of native trees, including some Carolinian species not generally seen this far north. Says Grand Bend Rotary Club President Kerry Teskey, “The Warner Preserve is a perfect opportunity to foster in people – both young and old – a love and appreciation of nature. It’s a priceless gift.”
In addition to the Rotary Club of Grand Bend, The Lawson Foundation provided essential seed money. Thanks also go to the Government of Canada’s Community Services Recovery Fund, which funded the creation of 1,000 metres of accessible trails on the property.
The Sunset Community Foundation sponsored this launch.
As a refuge and protected area, the Warner Preserve will be used for educational activities and events, but will be open to the public by invitation only.
In photo below, donor Peter Warner (at far right) helps to plant a ceremonial tree on the occasion of the Warner Preserve launch ceremony on June 15, 2024.
