Two local residents are making sure the land they cherish will remain natural for public use.

Frank and Rosalie Kuhnen recently donated 65 acres of land to Lacombe County, for the second time, the first time back in 2015 which was named Kuhnen Park, and is located just north of Blackfalds.

This sort of donation, explains Dale Freitag Manager of planning services, is very special since it allows the public to enjoy a quiet retreat in their own community.

“They want to have the opportunity to protect the land for future generations by creating recreational uses or natural areas and they want to have the opportunity to allow future generations to enjoy the land that they’ve enjoyed.”

The land runs along the north side of the Red Deer River and will remain in a natural state for the public to use for passive recreational purposes.

“They like the land and they want other people to enjoy it too.”

The public will be able to enjoy the walking trails and paths that will be created and maintained on the property. The county will also be adding a parking lot, signage and garbage disposal areas.

A grand opening for this event will be held in the spring.