What is a land trust?

Land trusts are non-profit, charitable organizations which save land for public benefit. All across Ontario groups of citizens, concerned that government resources are inadequate to preserve our natural and agricultural heritage, have organized land trusts. The last few years have witnessed a burgeoning growth in the number of community-based land trusts, which complement land use planning and government initiatives, providing a vehicle for those who want to commit their energy and resources through an non-government organization.

Land Trusts may be new to Ontario but already they have achieved some notable accomplishments as illustrated by these examples of innovation and resourcefulness:

Lower Grand River Land Trust: The 1,500 acre Ruthven Estate encompasses, significant woodlands and wetlands, prime agricultural land, a First Nations archaeological site and the 150 year old mansion has just been declared a National Historic Site. Members of the Trust have developed comprehensive management plans to protect the natural and cultural values of this outstanding site.

Hamilton Naturalists: In 1999 the Hamilton Naturalists were able to add 11 acres to the Shorthills Sanctuary, increasing the protection of this important Carolinian Canada site. Hamilton Naturalists’ Club

Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy: Early in 2000 it was announced that the final steps had been taken to secure the "Cup and Saucer" on Manitoulin Island. This 347 acre site contains the highest point on the Island and is home to many rare species. Long known as one of the most significant locations on the Escarpment, this land is now protected for all time.

The Nature Conservancy of Canada: Enjoyed its best year ever in Ontario in 1999, securing 27 properties including fabled Middle Island, the southernmost point in Canada, as well as 18,000 acres of alvar on Manitoulin Island. Nature Conservancy of Canada

The Federation of Ontario Naturalists: Have received a conservation easement in 1999 to protect the land on which the struggle to stop the Pickering Airport began. Federation of Ontario Naturalists

Rideau Waterway Land Trust: In their efforts to protect on of this Country’s historic waterways this Trust has compiled contact information for 7,500 waterfront property owners in order to encourage good stewardship. This year more than 900 people attended the Land Trust’s corn roast in August.
Rideau Waterway Land Trust

Couchiching Conservancy: Has established teams of volunteers to inspect and management each of its Nature Reserves. The Conservancy’s five properties are visited at least four times each year. Couchiching Conservancy

Muskoka Heritage Foundation: One of our oldest Land Trusts is this year celebrating the establishment of a "Dark Sky Park" at the Torrance Barrens. The Foundation was the driving force behind creating North America’s very first protected area dedicated to amateur astronomy.

Georgian Bay Trust: Summer  1999 the Lieutenant Governor dedicated Umbrella Island as the latest in a string of natural sites acquired by the Georgian Bay Trust. Georgian Bay Trust

(the notes above originally appeared in a brochure prepared by the Thames Talbot Land Trust)

More Information:

Ontario Nature Trust Alliance
c/o Federation of Ontario Naturalists
355 Lesmill Road
Don Mills  ON  M3B 2W8
visit the ONTA website

ONTA Land Securement Manual:
An ONTA manual that provides vital "how-to" information for land trusts, from real estate basics to taxes to land management. Compiled by experts, it’s an essential source for any trust or anyone interested in securing or stewarding land. Available from FON for $25 plus $4.50 P&H per copy. 1-800-440-2366

A few Land Trust Links

• Centre For Land and Water Stewardship
• Land Trust Alliance (USA)
• American Farm Land Trust
• Trust for Public Lands (USA)
• Land Trust Alliance of British Columbia