In the heart of bustling, modern Calgary lies a beautiful spot that many locals don’t even know about: the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary. This small sanctuary, located right in the city, offers a chance to see hundreds of bird species, enjoy some peace and quiet, and truly connect with nature. In this article, we’ll dive into the history of Inglewood and explore what you can do there. Learn more at calgary-name.
The History of the Sanctuary
It’s important to note that this land was used by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Archaeologists have discovered hearths and bison bones on the site, indicating the presence of ancient campsites here.
In 1882, Colonel James Walker settled on this land, building a homestead and a sawmill. In 1910, Walker replaced the original homestead with a new house, which still stands today and serves as an office for the park staff.
Following an application by Colonel Walker’s son, the government designated the family’s property a federal migratory bird sanctuary in 1929. Until 1952, parts of the land were leased to Chinese families who operated market gardens. In 1953, the plot was purchased by Ed Jeffries. He leased the area to the Alberta Fish and Game Association before selling the sanctuary to the City of Calgary in 1970.
In 2022, the City of Calgary began a project to reconnect the lagoon with the Bow River. The goal was to improve water quality in the lagoon and minimize the risk of future flooding. This work required a partial closure of the park until October 2023.
The Sanctuary Today
Today, this is a place where art meets science. For three years, acclaimed artist Tim Knowles collaborated with a team of engineers to help design the path of a new channel flowing from the Bow River into the local lagoon. This project included new landscaping, a new crossing, and seating areas.
The crossing is part bridge, part flood mitigation tool. It allows visitors to cross the stream and access a small island in the northeast corner of the park. The structure is built from natural wood.
The lagoon offers Calgarians a wonderful opportunity to observe birds nesting on the banks, as well as beavers, fish, and other animals in their natural habitat.
About the Artist: Tim Knowles
Tim Knowles is a renowned artist from the UK whose work spans painting, installation, photography, film, and public art. Over the past two decades, Knowles has worked in cities like Sydney, London, Boston, and Toronto. His pieces have been exhibited in top museums and galleries worldwide, and now you have the chance to see his work right here in Inglewood.
What to Do in Inglewood
You’ll never be bored at the sanctuary. You can visit the Nature Centre, check out school programs, sign up for birdwatching courses, or attend summer day camps. These events are a great way to learn more about ecology and conservation.
If you’re simply looking for a place to relax, Inglewood is a fantastic park for a walk. The sanctuary features several kilometres of trails along the Bow River. You can stroll, recharge, and enjoy the tranquility. It’s also a beautiful spot for some outdoor exercise. The park is usually not very crowded, making it the perfect location to escape the city noise and spend some quiet time with nature.
The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is a cozy and quiet retreat in the big city. With its long and fascinating history and modern environmental projects, it’s an invaluable asset to the community. Be sure to visit Inglewood before the secret gets out.