Valleys 2000 - The Valleys of Bowmanville

We are dedicated to the rehabilitation and environmental enhancement of quality urban parklands and trail systems in the two Bowmanville valleys:

Bowmanville Creek Valley north from Baseline Rd. West

and

Soper Creek Valley east off Simpson Avenue

The Bowmanville Creek Valley has a rich history. It has been occupied by Native Americans who came to fish its rich waters, by early European settlers who used the water power for their businesses, and by the Canadian army as a training camp. With its improved trails and walking paths, it is a destination for many visitors year round.

Both Bowmanville Creek and Soper Creek are important spawning waterways for trout and salmon, attracting anglers from far and wide. Both valleys have become home to a wide range of vegetation, trees, wild animals and birds.

Within walking distance of downtown Bowmanville, both areas are places where townspeople can enjoy walking, biking, or just sitting and enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.

Valleys 2000 began as a millennium project, initiated by the Clarington Healthy Communities Committee and the Bowmanville Lions Club, along with other interested citizens.

In 1992 the old Memorial Arena on Queen St. was demolished. In it’s place, the Town, along with various community groups, established the Rotary Park. A new stairway down to the valley as well as a footbridge across the creek ensured public access to Bowmanville Valley from the heart of downtown Bowmanville.

Once this access was assured, Valleys 2000 commissioned the development of a concept plan for the valley. This plan was refined according to public input & the mandate of the Bowmanville Valley(s) - Valleys 2000 - was established – ‘To provide passive recreation for persons of all ages & activity levels while protecting & enhancing the fish & wildlife habitats.’

Municipal Council voted unanimously to endorse the work of Valleys 2000 & has shown support through a partnership agreement, as well as donations of staff time, meeting space, administrative support & an interest-free loan.

We have also received provincial government funding, a generous donation from the Bowmanville Lions Club & a grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. The Bowmanville Creek Anglers Association has provided technical expertise & advice. Local businesses, school groups & youth organizations have volunteered to contribute their labours as well as equipment & materials.

Recognition: In December 2000 the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority presented Valleys 2000 with a Community Group Watershed Award. This award is in recognition is in ‘recognition of efforts to provide recreational amenities and trail development while improving the ecological health of the Bowmanville Creek and surrounding ecosystem.’

A 2010 survey showed that over 1000 folks used the Bowmanville Creek Valley trails on a rainy weekend. A lot of users were couples walking or jogging together enjoying the nature. Many people brought their dogs to socialize with other dogs, something they do regularly. We also made note of the large number of wheelchairs, electric carts, bicycles, skateboards, & baby strollers, which shows that our goal of providing the widest usage for the greatest number of people is being attained.

We need the input from the users of the Valleys to provide us with feedback as to suggestions to further improve these areas. Keep in mind, we are a volunteer-driven organization – the more volunteers we have, the more we are able to accomplish.