Have you noticed the new structure at the JJ Collett Natural Area?  It’s on the east side of the natural area where trail #4 meets trail #6.  It’s a perfect spot for a picnic lunch, or to stop for a rest, or just to sit and enjoy the world around you.  

The timber framed open structure was donated to JJ Collett Natural Area by Red Deer College Carpentry Department;  the result of a group professional development project involving college instructors last September. 

With the help of Daniel Iseli-Otto of Bluffton, the six instructors (Larry Berge, Sam Church, Gary Halvorson, Walter Loov, Dwayne Rausch and Jim Thomson) learned about 3D software timber frame joinery and cutting as well as actually raising the structure at the Nature Area northeast of Lacombe.  All of the layout, cutting, dry-fit, sanding and finishing was done at RDC’s Carpentry shop and then transported and raised on location at JJ Collett. 

Once complete, the wooden structure was oiled and a metal roof was added.  

“It is a great addition to the area.  People can stop and rest of get out of the sun for a while.  And it looks really nice, too!  Even the animals like it……an animal with horns did some rubbing on one of the posts!”  commented Foundation President Jack Surbey. 

Established in 1985, the JJ Collett Provincial Natural Area is 635 acres with over 18 km of maintained trails.  It is used the individuals, local organizations, schools, post-secondary institutions, First Nations, and fitness groups for field trips, studies and orienteering.  you can find more information about Jj Collett Nature Area on their website:  www.jjcollett.com 

Article submitted by:  Susan Grieshaber-Otto

The structure was recently dedicated in memory of long-time Foundation director and volunteer, Severin isle