Community map to be launched at CEAC 10th anniversary party

What do the Albion Hills Conservation Area, the Alton Mill, an American elm tree and the Caledon Trailway have in common? They are all listed on a new and exciting Caledon map which features more than 100 sites of natural and cultural heritage interest.

June 27, the Caledon Community Map will be unveiled by Mayor Marolyn Morrison at the Caledon East Park as part of the 10th Anniversary celebration for the Caledon Environmental Advisory Committee (CEAC).

Over the last 10 months, more than 200 local people and groups attended meetings to provide suggestions on what natural and cultural features should be included on the community map. From there local illustrator Jim Stewart, cartographer Chris Brackley, and project co-ordinator Deanna Coop worked together to bring the map to life.

"The map is a testament to Caledon and the community's appreciation of its natural and cultural heritage. We've collected over 100 submissions, stories and photos telling us about trails, parks, churches and heritage buildings that people really value" said Coop.

The Caledon Community Map is a project initiated by the Caledon Environmental Advisory Committee (CEAC) as a way to celebrate its 10 years as one of the Town council's most successful volunteer advisory committees. Heritage Caledon, which celebrated its 30th anniversary recently, and the Caledon Countryside Alliance, with its commitment to countryside values, were natural and enthusiastic partners.

"Like so many great ideas, the idea of a community map to celebrate CEAC's first 10 years happened over a glass of wine," said Debbe Crandall, CEAC project leader. "A map made by the citizens of Caledon is a perfect fit with a committee like CEAC. Having Heritage Caledon and CCA come on board as partners was the icing on the cake."

In all, 10,000 copies of the map have been printed and will be distributed to businesses, libraries and community centres throughout the summer. Businesses wishing to request copies of the map should contact Coop at deanna@caledoncountryside .org.

The financial support of the Metcalf Foundation, the McLean Foundation, Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation, Town of Caledon Community Green Fund, and project partners is gratefully acknowledged.