Long-time member and supporter, Norm Wingrove, has included a gift in his will to the Bruce Trail Conservancy. He shared his story in the hopes it may inspire you to consider a similar gift.

“My childhood was spent on a farm in Silver Hill, a rural town in Norfolk County. I have fond memories walking around the property as a boy, exploring and observing the wonders of nature around me. My father and I would go fishing in the stream, occasionally catching Brook trout. Looking back on that time, I can appreciate those were carefree days that sparked a lifelong love for the outdoors.“

Norm eventually moved off the farm and his career took him to many different places before settling down in Collingwood in 1975 with his wife, Bernice.

“I remember we set out on a country drive one weekend to explore the Niagara Escarpment when I first spotted one of the distinct Bruce Trail blazes on a tree. Curiosity led me to stop the car and take a look. That led to my first hike on the Trail.

It wasn’t too long after that when I noticed an ad in the local newspaper for a group hike organized by the Dufferin Hi-Land Club. I came out to see what it was about. They seemed like a good group and the president at the time, Muriel Lowcock, was quick to jump in and encourage me to join the Club. I did, of course, and have been a member now for just over 40 years.“

In those four decades, Norm has enjoyed his time on the Bruce Trail as an avid hiker, volunteer, and for a time in the late 1980s, as Vice President of the Club Board.

“The Bruce Trail has enriched my life in many ways over the years, as I’m sure it has for you too. Whether working with a trail crew on a project or hiking with friends, getting out on the Trail is always a relaxing experience and an adventure.

As a Trail Captain, I have a collection of fond memories of work parties. There’s always a sense of accomplishment when working on a project together. It’s a good feeling to look up while working with a trail crew and think, “I helped build that bridge.” And the camaraderie, of course. I’ve made some good friends over the years.

I know how much joy being out on the Trail has brought me (still does!), so being able to make it better for others to enjoy is satisfying.“

Norm’s experiences on the Bruce Trail have deepened his appreciation for the Mission to help preserve a ribbon of wilderness, for everyone, forever.

“I decided to include a gift in my will to the Bruce Trail Conservancy because it’s doing such important work to help protect and preserve the Niagara Escarpment. With all the development pressures and building going on throughout southern Ontario, I feel securing land permanently for conservation is more important than ever. The Bruce Trail has also brought me so much joy over the years, nurturing my love for nature and adventure. It’s something I would like future generations to experience.“

You, too, can help to ensure that future generations will experience the joy of discovery and adventure on the Bruce Trail. The impact of a gift in your will is immeasurable. It would help to ensure the Bruce Trail Conservancy can continue to act quickly when opportunities arise, and that the Niagara Escarpment will be cared for in perpetuity. 

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