The 32-acre Discovery Nature Sanctuary in Winkler offers a unique experience for residents who want to take a step away from modern life, and enjoy the serenity of nature.

This safe haven for animals and plants all began with the idea of two women, Margaret Klassen and Margaret Penner, who wanted to create a bird sanctuary, says Chair Paul Goossen.

"That eventually evolved to the concept of a nature sanctuary, and this was the place that was eventually chosen as the location. With the committee that we have currently working on it, there's lots of ideas generated, and a lot of hours put in."

Inviting all to the sanctuary located near Eastview Drive and Circle K drive in Winkler's east end, people were witness to the many improvements the committee had been establishing throughout the sanctuary.

Bird boxes have been set up around the 32-acres, nesting areas, bat boxes, pollinator gardens and planting of young native tree species all with the goal of improving life for the species which call the area home.

Benches and paths have been set up to make the area more accessible, says Goossen. Bridges still need to be completed to fully connect the accessibility trail.

Current estimates suggest there are approximately 200 unique species of plants and animals located in the sanctuary with that figure established by a process referred to as a 'Bio-Blitz'.

A 'Bio-Blitz' is a 24-hour blitz of an area to try and discover as many species as possible. Around 150 high school students, amateur naturalists and professionals searched the park both Friday and Saturday cataloguing the species throughout the sanctuary.

Sometimes visitors come to the area, with two yearling moose spotted Wednesday, chased off by the mother, the two "teenager" moose were probably searching the area for a new place to live.

Photos by Pete Hamm
Two yearling moose were seen in Winkler's Discovery Nature Sanctuary and an adjacent business property.

Not only is the sanctuary an opportunity to observe dozens of plant, bird and other animals species but to nurture curiosity and encourage education.

"We're also hoping to put up an outdoor classroom, which will be an important feature for elementary and high school classes who come out here to study biology, or ecology, or some other subject," says Goossen

Even as a young boy, Goossen says he had an interest in birds, which lead to a life involved in biology. However, during that time he wished there were a place and people which would help grow his passions, explaining this sanctuary can be such a place.

Goossen is incredibly excited that the sanctuary is now officially opened, he thanks all who have given their time and resources in enabling the success and creating of this area, which he says will be a great addition Winkler.