Spring is right around the corner and members of the Discovery Nature Sanctuary (DNS) board have big plans for the upcoming season.

The sanctuary boasts a wide array of environments from grassland, woodland, swamp, and wetland.

A safe haven for native plant and animal species, DNS Chair Paul Goossen says they are working on ways to entice more species to the sanctuary.

"We have a gal in our committee Erna Giesbrecht who is a really keen person on birds. She and her husband love to make bird boxes, they've also made a bat house that will be going up."

Paul Goossen DNS Chair talking to NPC students during the fall clean up of the sanctuary.

Other planned additions include nesting tunnels for waterfowl and loafing platforms to allow water birds to rest.

The board is also excited with the inclusion of the DNS on Google Maps and their new Facebook page.

The sanctuary is located between Eastview Drive and Circle K drive in Winkler's east end.

Goossen says the page has allowed them to reach thousands of people, to inform on conservation, general information, and updates for the sanctuary.

"The Facebook page has been a real success. We've had Kim Knott who has volunteered her time to set this page up, she has really provided enthusiasm and interest in getting this page developed. It has really helped to spread the word."

The page features articles on birds species with a new species to be featured each month. 2018 has been identified as the 'Year Of The Bird' by National Geographic and several conservation partners in recognition of the centennial of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

At the recent Winkler City Council meeting, DNS had applied for grants to develop the area and a resolution from the city to use the land.

"We believe the project is excellent," says Mayor Martin Harder. "it has a long time value for the city certainly in tourism. The project as they have presented it to us is very exciting."

DNS is looking for donations to help make the project a reality. Donations are tax-deductible and can be made to the City of Winkler office.

The 32-acre sanctuary features grass, woodland, and approximately seven acres of swamp and wetland.