Amenities
Additional
public amenities for the enjoyment of the residents will include viewpoints and
sitting areas along the trails, the manmade ponds and linear water features, a
community lodge and gathering location, as well as storage facilities for
boats, recreational vehicles and trailers. The water features will start at several manmade ponds near
the top of the hill and extend from this higher elevation down through the
property in close proximity to the equestrian and walking trails. Large pools
will be created along a stream that will end at a water feature near the
dedicated Grey Canal trail. This
will be a closed system where the water is recycled by pumping back up between
the ponds and is being designed to ensure that water conservation measures are
a priority. The water feature is a primary component of the storm water management
plan and can also be used for irrigation of the neighbourhood park areas, the
landscape features and for supplementing the fire fighting capabilities on
Vernon Hill.
Natural Areas
As the Vernon Hill Ranch
neighbourhood develops, preservation of natural areas is a priority. The site is primarily undeveloped
forest land with a history of selective logging. A preliminary environmental sensitivity analysis has been
done to identify the sensitive areas of the site. The report has identified three levels of environmental
sensitivity, where they occur and development considerations for each.
Areas assigned with the highest sensitivity ratings, such as the Bate Creek corridor, will not be developed. These areas will be protected with a Natural Area designation and by covenants on titles. These areas may have secondary access routes, riding or hiking trails constructed through them after an environmental review ensures there will be no negative impacts.
An area will be
established within the Vernon Hill Ranch
where stables and paddocks can be
provided for the use of the residents.
This area is planned to be one of the hubs of the trail network. The
stables will offer boarding for residents’ horses, training and teaching
capabilities. Strong environmental
principles will be used for equine management throughout the ranch lands.