On Friday, the Northumberland Land Trust (NLT) celebrated the results of a $48,700 Capital grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) to
build a new shelter to facilitate outdoor recreation and immersive nature experiences.
“The Northumberland Land Trust is integral to our community in preserving our rich biodiversity, maintaining our natural landscape, and educating everyone on the importance of conservation,” said David Piccini, MPP for Northumberland-Peterborough South. “The Ontario Government is proud to invest in the Northumberland Land Trust so that they may provide up-to-date facilities that meet and exceed the expectations of our community”
Northumberland Land Trust (NLT) has built a covered picnic area that can shelter six standard sized picnic tables, which can seat up to 36 people thanks to the Capital grant that was awarded in the fall of 2023 by OTF. The funds allowed NLT to construct a large, structurally sound shelter that will provide a safe, free and accessible gathering space for the public to enjoy. This space will be used by NLT to host free outdoor education events and immersive nature experiences at the Lone Pine Marsh Nature Reserve, a public nature reserve boasting kilometres of hiking trails, an observation deck and views of rare habitats.
“The existing dilapidated shelter was not meeting the current needs of the community as it is deemed a safety hazard for visitors,” said Rob Kennedy, President of the Northumberland Land Trust. “This project provided the community with a safe opportunity to engage with nature that supports mental, physical and emotional wellbeing.”
The new facility has already been utilized by NLT when it held its “Arts Day in Nature” on July 27, 2024. The community was invited to come out to sketch, paint, write, photograph, compose and be inspired. The NLT’s Stewardship Committee also used the facility for one of its meetings. The NLT relies on volunteers, grants and donations to do its work.
The Northumberland Land Trust (NLT) is committed to preserving the natural heritage of Northumberland County, Ontario, Canada. Its mandate is to establish, maintain and manage protected areas. The NLT is a not for profit, charitable organization, which accepts donations of land, enters into conservation agreements for the permanent protection of natural landscapes, forests, farms and waterways. NLT strives to provide public education and information on land conservation tools. The NLT is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors representing a cross section of the community including landowners, farmers, businesspeople and professionals. People can donate through the NLT’s website at nltrust.ca or email at info@nltrust.ca.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the Northumberland Land Trust deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure they remain at the heart of the community for decades to come."
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.