What’s happened at the Arboretum & Learning Trail since our grand opening last year? Why are we having another celebration?
Last April, around 200 people joined us to celebrate the Grand Opening of the Arboretum & Learning Trail behind the arena. Since then, Phase 2 of the trail, which connects the Arboretum to the front of the arena, has been installed. We’ve harvested pears, added benches and planted an additional 16 trees and shrubs through a Tree Canada grant, supported by the LCBO. We are also currently working on refurbishing the pollinator garden area to make it easier to maintain and better reflect natural environments.
On Saturday, May 24th, we will celebrate these changes with children’s activities, a native tree give-away, animal encounters, and a trail naming ceremony. The Wheatley Horticultural Society, in partnership with Chatham-Kent Parks & Recreation and CK Trails, is naming Phase 2 of the trail “Doc.McKibbin Way”.
Dr.Lloyd McKibbin was an innovative veterinarian who was known worldwide for his contributions to the advancements of equine veterinary medicine. He was one of the first to introduce swimming as physiotherapy, acupuncture and laser treatments for his patients – all from his practice in Wheatley. These experiences were shared throughout the world to help others learn about his discoveries through scientific journals. This success led to Dr. McKibbin being named Wheatley’s “Man of the Year” in 1979. He was also inducted into the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame in 2023.
In addition to his contributions to veterinary medicine, “Doc McKibbin” was a leader in the development of the property that is now the Arboretum and Learning Trail. The berm located at the back of the property was his initiative- a natural grandstand for residents to sit on and enjoy the tractor pulls and races held in the space at that time. The Wheatley Horticultural Society wants to ensure that Dr. McKibbin is recognized for his achievements and support of community and education by naming the trail that connects the track by the school at the front of the Wheatley Recreation Complex to the Arboretum and Learning Trail at the back of the property.
Join us at 10 am on Saturday, May 24th, 2025 to celebrate Dr. McKibbin in this way!
