Conservation Policy Receives Unanimous Endorsement

Public access to natural areas is a key priority for future acquisitions of conservation lands in the watershed community. It is a priority acknowledged by both Otonabee Conservation and the Otonabee Conservation Foundation. The two organizations have been working closely to acquire significant environmental lands across the watershed community since 1968.

The Conservation Lands Acquisition and Retention Policy received unanimous support by the Board of Directors of Otonabee Conservation and the Otonabee Conservation Foundation. Future land acquisitions will be focused on environmentally suitable additions that protect the natural features that characterize the watershed region.

Currently, there are 10,157 acres of conservation lands. The lands are categorized into forests (5,000 acres), wetlands (2,500 acres), wildlife areas (1,500 acres) and recreation properties (1,157 acres). The properties include significant natural features and floodplain areas, thereby addressing several conservation objectives including water quality and quantity, soil and water conservation as well as recreation and outdoor education.

The Otonabee Conservation Foundation provides vital support in securing the lands, specifically matching funds through fund-raising, partnership arrangements and grants. The Nornabell Conservation Trust was established (in 1998) to help cover the costs associated with land acquisition.