The City of Windsor is now the steward of 12.2 acres of naturalized property in the southeast end of the city.
St. Clair College officially transferred the land to the city to maintain as natural heritage parkland. The parcel was originally donated to St. Clair College by the late Dr. Bruce and Kathryn White.
"My parents worked hard to create this sanctuary and wanted others to enjoy the calming effects a forest can bring. Shaded paths, the sounds and sights of nature and a beauty you can't duplicate," said Lyn Robinet, daughter of Dr. Bruce and Kathryn White.
The Dr. Bruce and Kathryn White Memorial Park is home to approximately 7,000 mature trees including red oak trees, black walnut trees and white pine trees. It is located on Lauzon Road just north of County Road 42.
Naturalized area of Dr. Bruce and Kathryn White Memorial Park, April 24, 2023. (Photo by Maureen Revait)
“The City of Windsor is honoured to carry on the legacy of ecological conservation left behind by Dr. Bruce and Kathryn White, through the transfer of this land," said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens. "We are always looking for opportunities to expand our conservation efforts within the city of Windsor, and greatly appreciate the college coming forward with this impactful proposal.”
The City of Windsor Parks and Recreation Department will maintain the site and plant more trees and other native plant species.
"We are aware that immediate plans will not offer public access and the property will be left alone to naturalize. Our family hopes the city will continue to appreciate the value of 12 acres of forest in an area that is gearing up for more industrialization," said Robinet.
St. Clair College horticultural students will continue to attend the site for learning purposes.
“While we were honoured to receive the donation of the property from the Whites a dozen years ago, and to have been using it as an important training site for our Landscaping students, the College always felt that it was just a custodian of the land. Long-term, it was always our goal – as it was that of Bruce and Kathryn – to see the entire community enjoy this beautiful setting as a public park. It is the wonderful legacy of a wonderful couple," said Patti France, president of St. Clair College.
