Jack Miner sanctuary wall repair in need of funding for completion

Donations are sought for brick structure to revitalize migratory bird landmark

After decades of protecting the fowl and fauna at the Jack Miner Migratory Bird Sanctuary in Kingsville, fencing donated by Miner's friend, American industrialist Henry Ford, has met its end.

A crumbling foundation and years of wear and tear led to the demolition of the front fence surrounding the sanctuary's viewing pond in 2019, said interim executive director Amanda Everaert.

A new, sturdier fence, similar in look to the old fence, is currently under construction. And so are fundraising efforts to pay the cost of its replacement, which has been pegged at $100,000.

The sanctuary is famous for its protection of migratory birds during their annual travels.

Jack Miner founded the migratory waterfowl refuge system and established the local sanctuary in 1904.

Five years later, he pioneered the banding of migrating waterfowl, that was used to collect data that helped lead to the formation of the Migratory Bird Treaty of 1916 between the United States and Canada.

Since then, the sanctuary has hosted generations of children on school trips, as well as thousands of visitors who learn about Canada geese and other birds, while visiting the facility's historic house and museum.

Everaert said 78 meters (256 feet) of new fencing — in a style as close as possible to the original fence but with more contemporary materials — is being installed as weather permits.

The replacement fence is being constructed with brick pillars with stone caps, and brick bases for aluminum posts in between the columns, which previously held chain link sections.

The replacement sits farther back from the road than the original, allowing for more space for pedestrians and accessibility for folks with mobility issues or families with strollers.

Everaert said the hope is to install a seating area outside the fence, providing a nice perch for viewing the birds inside the pond area.

Lighting is being added to enhance security and safety at the sanctuary, as well as electrical outlets that will facilitate the installation of Christmas lights each year.

Topping it all off will be a centrepiece with the Jack Miner emblem or logo on it that is being created for the centre of the fence, Everaert said.

The work should be completed by spring.

The sanctuary remains open year-round to visitors to stroll its grounds, feed the birds or explore its acres of trails, from sunrise to sunset. Admission is free.

The museum is scheduled to reopen in April if pandemic restrictions permit, Everaert said.

A not-for-profit foundation, funding is through grants and private donations.

A Gofundme page was recently set up to help raise funds to pay for the new fencing. To make a donation, visit jackminer.ca.