Winkler's nature sanctuary has a bright future ahead of it.

The newly named Discovery Nature Sanctuary offers a unique experience for those living in the city says Paul Goossen, Chair of the Discovery Nature Sanctuary board.

The 32-acre sanctuary features grass, woodland, and approximately seven acres of swamp and wetland. It is located between Eastview Drive and Circle K drive in Winkler's east end.

However, many people may be curious why a nature sanctuary is important to the city.

"It's a safe haven for native plants, native birds, native animals to live safely. It's also an opportunity for people to come enjoy, relax and experience nature within a city context. It's also a great educational opportunity."

Goossen goes on saying that the sanctuary will allow elementary schools to apply what they've been learning in class and see how real ecosystems function.

The sanctuary is home to many native plants and animals. Visitors are also likely to see dozens of species of birds, insects, amphibians and even some mammals.

Goossen shares that he's seen red tail hawk nesting the year before, barn swallows, and has even seen a fox dash into the bushes.

Next year there's even a plan for a 'Bio-Blitz'.

"A 'Bio-Blitz' is a 24-hour blitz of an area to try and discover as many species as possible. I think that will give us an inventory of what we actually have here," explains Goossen. "I think people will be surprised how many species are in this sanctuary, particularly when it comes to insects."

Plans for the sanctuary include; further development of the trails, a discovery dock, bird boxes, benches, resting shelter, planting native trees, and creating a Pollinator garden.

Pollinator gardens protect and feed pollinating insects that are needed to pollinate flowers, fruits, and vegetables.

The sanctuary is a great addition to Winkler, Goosen says, as a way to protect the areas native species, and for photographers, researchers, and residents to experience nature.