Written By Alan Good
TRAVEL - A drive of about 40 minutes from London can take you to a hiking area that provides views of farm fields, birds and pond life. On 724 acres of Crown land, it was once a World War II air force training base. Some 395 acres is under active farming.
The Fingal Wildlife Management Area (FWMA) has seen some improvements such as the development of a series of ponds, planting of trees and shrubs, establishment of hedgerows, food and cover plots and brush piles.
A partnership agreement was had between the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Elgin Stewardship Council in 1997. Since, interpretive hiking trails and a viewing station were added for any hiker’s pleasure. Close to 100 acres consists of natural habitats including forest, deciduous and coniferous plantations, tallgrass prairie, ponds and hedgerows.
The FWMA purpose is to provide habitat for upland game species, as well to provide wildlife-based recreational activities like hunting, hiking, research, environmental education and nature appreciation. During breeding and migration season, over 200 species of wildlife can be identified.
As you park and take the short walk to where the trails split up, grab a map provided in the box. The trail guide helps you find your way around and identifies trees there.
Take your dog and enjoy walks on flat surfaces or some hilly tree-lined paths for between an hour to several. In fact, the trails add up to 40 kilometers, weaving around farms and crossing one another, while interpretive signage help visitors learn about the property and wildlife.
Our walk was on one of three main paths, “The Runway Trail”. At one point, veer right and follow the path to the Ian Carmichael Pond. There, climb the viewing stand to see many species of birds and plants.
Some of the trail still showed the roadway for the air school. The clay banks in that area were said to provide ideal material for runway foundations in 1940. 130,000 air crews from Britain, Australia, New Zealand and France graduated from this school between 1940 and 1945.
During specific times, hunters may enter the area to hunt pheasant or shoot clay targets. Free to all, donations are accepted, and this would make a delightful fall excursion for anyone who enjoys nature and a quiet walk.
