Save Waverly Woods

Hi. My name is Lou, and we are fundraising for Community Voices of Fort Erie, Inc., a grass-roots community-based group of concerned citizens and residents volunteering our time, efforts, and talents to save Waverly Woods before it is lost due to destruction by development.

There is a special place along the Lake Erie shore

in the Town of Fort Erie, known as Waverly Woods/Erie Beach, that is the last urban undeveloped lakeshore property in the Town of Fort Erie. It is a haven for wildlife, including birds, foxes, weasels, deer and the endangered Fowler’s Toad.

The historical and environmental significance of this woodlot needs to be recognized and promoted. Earliest use of this land was by the Indigenous community. It played a role in the Siege of Fort Erie during the War of 1812-14. Fugitive slaves landed here and built the Snake Hill Settlement, home to about 200. Erie Beach Amusement Park, built in 1910, was advertised as Buffalo’s Atlantic City, with 200,000 visitors on weekends. Ruins of the park are still visible.

Waverly Woods also helps to build a sense of community, and provides opportunities for wellness through exercise, socialization, and a walk in the woods.

This approximate 14-hectare property located on the North Shore of Lake Erie, and 800 meters west of the historic site of Old Fort Erie, was approved by the Town of Fort Erie for a subdivision including single family residences, townhouses, and a multi-storey condominium tower, for a total of 237 units, essentially destroying this historical and environmentally significant woodlot.

Following approval of this proposed development, Community Voices of Fort Erie Inc. filed an appeal through the Ontario Municipal Board (now known as LPAT) against the Town of Fort Erie on the grounds that provincial planning policies were not adhered to. We have retained the services of David Donnelly Law Firm (one of Canada’s leading environmental lawyers and an award-winning advocate for smart growth), in addition to a Planner, Hydrologist, and several expert witnesses, whose testimonies will be required for the appeal scheduled to commence on April 25, 2022 by video. All donations received will be used to help with the cost of this team of experts. After the appeal process is finished, all excess funds will be donated to the Nature Conservancy of Canada for the preservation of more nature.

Our ultimate goal is for this property to be saved, honouring its historical legacy and preserving its environmental impact for the enjoyment of all citizens, residents, and visitors.

Will you help us Save Waverly Woods?