Rotarians grateful for article spotlighting Waterford River

Dear Editor:
We would like to express our profound gratitude to Chad Feehan and The Shoreline newspaper for the insightful article featured in the January 5, 2024, edition. The piece, which spotlighted the Waterford River and its surrounding natural beauty, not only captured the essence of our endeavors but also underscored the importance of our collective efforts to preserve and enhance this local treasure.
The City of Mount Pearl has been a cornerstone of support for the initiatives spearheaded by the Rotary Club of Waterford Valley, playing a crucial role in the planning and execution of significant improvements along the river that flows through Mount Pearl. For over 40 years, the Rotary Club has been at the forefront of enhancing the Waterford River area, notably through the installation of five pedestrian bridges and groomed trails. These bridges, three of which have been dedicated to the memory of outstanding Rotarians, Neil Windsor, John Weger, and our mentor, Sandy Roche, have not only facilitated connectivity within the community but also serve as a lasting tribute to their contributions.
Our efforts have extended beyond infrastructure development to include the removal of substantial amounts of debris and discarded items, transforming the Waterford River trail and valley into a beloved destination for residents seeking the peace and beauty of nature. This transformation has been made possible through the collaboration of the neighboring municipalities of Paradise and St. John’s, the Conservation Corps, NAACAP, and the support of both provincial and federal governments, illustrating the power of community and governmental partnership in achieving our goals.
We invite you to stay engaged with our ongoing and future projects by visiting the Rotary website for details on how you can contribute to our mission, whether through area cleanups, participating in the River Ranger program, or supporting the Waterford River Heritage Association.
In closing, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Chad Feehan, Editor Craig Westcott, and The Shoreline for shining a light on our cause. We are equally grateful to every individual and organization that has joined hands with us over the years, helping to bring our vision closer to reality. Your support and dedication have been indispensable in our journey to enhance the Waterford River area for all to enjoy.
Bill and Bern Stoyles
River Committee co-chairs
Rotary Club of the Waterford Valley