Since 1904, the Jack Miner Migratory Bird Sanctuary has been protecting migratory birds. Each year, the sanctuary has visitors from near and far who come to learn about the important work of Jack Miner in the field of conservation. No visit is complete without a stroll through the historic house and museum.
For those of us lucky enough to call Kingsville home, the scenic grounds and trails provide a great place for frequent hikes while taking in the beautiful and natural surroundings.
In 2019, the front fence surrounding the viewing pond had become a safety hazard due to its age and degradation and was ultimately dismantled. This fence was originally built and funded by Henry Ford who was a lifelong friend and supporter of the sanctuary.
A temporary fence was erected to continue to perform the important function of keeping the birds safe while keeping the predators out. It also encloses the area to keep young visitors away from the road that runs in front of the sanctuary.
Construction of a permanent fence has now begun and the Jack Miner Migratory Bird Foundation is asking for financial assistance from the public. Established in 1931 in the United States and 1936 in Canada, this not-for-profit organization carries on the legacy of Jack Miner. It operates solely on grants and donations.
The new wall is 250 feet in length and is being constructed with brick pillars joined by strong and durable aluminum fencing. New front lighting will provide additional safety while enhancing the overall beauty of this property. The estimated cost of construction is $100,000 and the interim Executive Director, Dr. Amanda Everaert, has kickstarted fundraising efforts on GoFundMe.
There are three ways you can help to preserve this important piece of Kingsville’s history:
- Make a donation today at GoFundMe by clicking here.
- Visit the Foundation’s website and make a donation using the PayPal link.
- Share this article with others on your social media platforms.
Donations of $25 or more are tax deductible.
The work on the fence is scheduled to be completed during National Wildlife Week which falls on April 10, a date which is also the birthday of the late Jack Miner.
To read more about the work of the Jack Miner Migratory Bird Foundation, click here.
To read more about National Wildlife Week in Canada, click here.
Photos supplied by The Jack Miner Migratory Bird Foundation