Welcome to the Bruce Trail Conservancy’s Pressroom
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Nature has a story to tell and we want to help you tell it.
We are here to help you with news stories, including arranging interviews with experts who work in conservation, land preservation, trail construction, hiking and more. We have expert staff and experienced volunteers who can contribute to news and feature stories on various topics. And we’re happy to provide photos or video footage to help you tell the story.
Media Contacts
Press Releases
Bruce Trail Conservancy preserves 463 acres on the Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula with the creation of the MapleCross Nature Reserve at Hope Bay
THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2024 – DUNDAS, ONTARIO
The creation of this nature reserve protects an ecological corridor containing dense interior forest, a declining habitat in Ontario. This environment is critical for area-sensitive bird species, such as American Redstart, Black-and-white Warbler and Ovenbird, as well as mammals like the elusive Fisher and Black bear. This area also boasts cliff and talus features, which are uncommon in Ontario and provide sheltered habitats for many rare bats and snakes. The MapleCross Nature Reserve at Hope Bay will preserve these precious ecosystems, ensuring a natural haven where wildlife can thrive.
“The MapleCross Nature Reserve at Hope Bay is the realization of decades of cooperation between a dedicated landowner and the Bruce Trail Conservancy, together with the efforts of our exceptional volunteers and staff, the thoughtful generosity of our donors, and a meaningful investment from the federal government. The result is an incredible gift to the people of Ontario that will be preserved and enjoyed for generations to come,” said Michael McDonald, Chief Executive Officer of the Bruce Trail Conservancy.
Securement of this land was made possible by an outstanding gift from the MapleCross Fund; an enthusiastic environmental champion that has supported the creation of seven BTC nature reserves. Aided by the generous contributions of individual donors and support from Environment and Climate Change Canada, the BTC has ensured this irreplaceable Niagara Escarpment land is preserved forever.
“Our supporters at the MapleCross Fund have become true partners in conservation, helping us secure the MapleCross Nature Reserve at Hope Bay with a phenomenal gift that will protect these critical ecosystems in perpetuity,” said Marsha Russell, Vice President of Fund Development. “This gift adds to an extraordinary legacy of giving that has helped the BTC secure the Bruce Trail and preserve more than 1600 acres across the Niagara Escarpment. Their steadfast support encourages us to be bold in our efforts to save and care for our natural heritage.”
The BTC is also a proud recipient of a five-year, $6.6 Million Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund grant from Environment and Climate Change Canada. This funding has supported the securement of the MapleCross Nature Reserve at Hope Bay, and three additional nature reserves recently created in the Owen Sound area: Mossy Gorge Nature Reserve, Woodford Karst Nature Reserve, and Cattail Marsh Nature Reserve. Combined, these newly protected areas make up over 700 acres of preserved habitats and secure over 4 km of the iconic Bruce Trail.
“The Niagara Escarpment forms the backbone of unique and protected nature areas across southern Ontario, from Queenston on the Niagara River, through Milton, to Tobermory at the top of the Bruce Peninsula. With the help of the federal government’s $6.6 million grant to the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund, the Bruce Trail Conservancy is preserving another 463 acres of critical habitat on Georgian Bay. Canada is committed to protecting 30 percent of lands and waters by 2030, for the benefit of nature-loving citizens, our biodiversity, and the health of the planet,” said Adam van Koeverden, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Member of Parliament for Milton.
The creation of the MapleCross Nature Reserve at Hope Bay will also conserve critical natural systems that help mitigate the effects of climate change. The entire property sits on a karst foundation, which contains natural sinks for carbon dioxide and plays an important role in water purification.
For over 60 years the Bruce Trail Conservancy has been the only charitable organization working to preserve sensitive Escarpment lands, while making them accessible for the people of Ontario by way of the Bruce Trail. This new nature reserve will be stewarded by the dedicated volunteers of the Peninsula Bruce Trail Club.
As we work to secure all 900 km of the Bruce Trail, we are incredibly grateful to the dozens of landowners on the Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula who graciously allow the Trail to cross their property. Without handshake agreements with generous landowners, the continuity of the Bruce Trail would be in jeopardy.
About the Bruce Trail Conservancy
The Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts that secures, protects and restores the vulnerable habitat and biodiversity of the UNESCO Niagara Escarpment Biosphere. For more than 60 years we have responsibly connected people to nature through the Bruce Trail. We are a member-driven, volunteer-based, charitable organization governed by a 19-member Board of Directors. Working with each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs, we are committed to caring for the Bruce Trail and to preserving land along its route. The Bruce Trail Conservancy is a leading Canadian environmental charity and has been named one of the 2023 Top 100 Charities in Canada by Charity Intelligence.
About the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund
Canada’s Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF) is a $1.4 billion, ten-year fund (2021–2031) administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada to help conserve, restore, and enhance the management of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and grasslands, in order to help tackle the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. The NSCSF will focus on three main objectives: (1) conserving carbon-rich ecosystems at high risk of conversion to other uses that would release their stored carbon; (2) improving land management practices to reduce their greenhouse gas emission-causing impacts on Canada’s ecosystems; and (3) restoring degraded ecosystems. Overall, these projects will contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and increased carbon sequestration, while also providing benefits for biodiversity and human well-being.
Bruce Trail Conservancy Contact:
Ali Schofield, Manager of Communications
Bruce Trail Conservancy
aschofield@brucetrail.org | 905.529.6821 ext. 252
Bruce Trail Conservancy staff members and ecologists are available for interviews upon request.
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Bruce Trail Conservancy to Conduct Controlled Burn Land Maintenance at Vanishing Stream Nature Reserve
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 – COLPOY’S BAY, ONTARIO
The Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) will be conducting a controlled burn at the site of Vanishing Stream Nature Reserve located off Concession 7 in the Town of South Bruce Peninsula on Thursday, November 16, 2023. The aim of the controlled burn will be to continue the work of transforming the surrounding meadowlands into a native wildflower and grass habitat while reducing the amount of invasive and non-native vegetative species gaining control in the area.
The controlled burn will take place on Thursday, November 16, 2023. The timing of the burn has been carefully chosen based on weather and climate conditions, as well as mindfulness of ecological concerns, such as bird migration. The BTC has posted a notice on our website and will post on social media channels the morning of the burn. On the day of the burn there will be no public access to the Bruce Trail at Vanishing Stream Nature Reserve. BTC Staff will be positioned at entrance points to advise trail users.
A controlled burn, also called a “prescribed burn”, is a widely used method that allows for the growth and regeneration of native grasslands. This deliberately set, carefully planned and controlled fire will be conducted by specialists from Lands & Forests Consulting, a company with extensive experience ensuring that burns are controlled, safe, and occur in such a way that minimizes smoke in the surrounding areas. Local fire services have approved the burn plan and the site will be monitored by Lands & Forests Consulting continuously until the burn is declared out.
Residents near Vanishing Stream Nature Reserve and the surrounding areas may see smoke while the burn is taking place and for approximately 48 hours after the fires have been extinguished, however, smoke issues will be minimized by burning under specific wind directions and atmospheric conditions. Please be advised that visible smoke in the area is not cause for concern and firefighting services will be on standby in the highly unlikely event that emergency action is necessary.
Regular controlled burns are an important natural component in establishing and maintaining native meadow habitats in Ontario, which have been in steady decline over recent decades. By supporting the growth of a natural meadow habitat, the BTC is working to mitigate the effects of climate change, since these habitats store carbon in the soil. This practice is also an important step in restoring and caring for Niagara Escarpment Lands, a critical priority outlined in 2030 Strategy, the BTC’s strategic plan released in March 2023.
For more information on the controlled burn at Vanishing Stream Nature Reserve, please visit our website.
Location
Vanishing Stream Nature Reserve
Lot 35, Concession 7,
Town of South Bruce Peninsula
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Bruce Trail Conservancy Contact:
Ali Schofield, Manager of Communications
Bruce Trail Conservancy
aschofield@brucetrail.org | 905.529.6821 ext. 252
Bruce Trail Conservancy staff members are available for interviews upon request.
About the Bruce Trail Conservancy
The Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts that acquires, protects and restores the vulnerable habitat and biodiversity of the UNESCO Niagara Escarpment Biosphere. For more than 60 years, we have responsibly connected people to nature through the Bruce Trail. We are a member-driven, volunteer-based, charitable organization, governed by a 19-member Board of Directors. Working with each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs, we are committed to caring for the Bruce Trail and to preserving land along its route.
Bruce Trail Conservancy named one of Canada’s Top 100 Charities
Friday, October 13, 2023 – DUNDAS, ONTARIO
The Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) is pleased to announce that it has been named one of Canada’s Top 100 Charities for 2023 by the non-profit reporting organization Charity Intelligence.
Charity Intelligence has awarded the BTC with a 5-star rating, noting the organization’s use of best practices in financial transparency and a high ratio of donor impact per dollar. Charity Intelligence also commended the BTC’s above average accountability to donors, which garnered an A reporting grade for the organization.
The BTC has been included on the Charity Intelligence list of Canada’s Top 100 Charities since 2018 and is proud to be recognized once again as one of Canada’s highest-rated environmental non-profits.
The BTC is immensely grateful for our members, volunteers, donors, landowners, allied organizations and Board of Directors whose generous support is instrumental in the pursuit of our mission: preserving a ribbon of wilderness, for everyone, forever. To learn more about the impact of the BTC’s recent conservation and community-building efforts, please click here to read our 2022-2023 Annual Impact Report.
To visit the BTC’s Charity Intelligence profile click here.
To read the full list of Canada’s Top 100 Charities of 2023 by Charity Intelligence click here.
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Bruce Trail Conservancy Contact:
Ali Schofield, Manager of Communications
Bruce Trail Conservancy
aschofield@brucetrail.org | 905.529.6821 ext. 252
Bruce Trail Conservancy staff members are available for interviews upon request.
About the Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts that secures, protects and restores the vulnerable habitat and biodiversity of the UNESCO Niagara Escarpment Biosphere. For more than 50 years, we have responsibly connected people to nature through the Bruce Trail. We are a member-driven, volunteer-based, charitable organization, governed by a 19-member Board of Directors. Working with each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs, we are committed to caring for the Bruce Trail and to preserving land along its route.
About Charity Intelligence (Ci)
Charity Intelligence researches Canadian charities for donors to be informed and give intelligently. Our website posts free reports on more than 800 Canadian charities, as well as in-depth primers on philanthropic sectors like Canada’s environment, cancer, and homelessness. Today over 500,000 Canadians use our website as a go-to source for information on Canadian charities reading over 1.6 million charity reports. Through rigorous and independent research, Charity Intelligence aims to assist Canada’s dynamic charitable sector in being more transparent, accountable and focused on results.
Bruce Trail Conservancy to Conduct Controlled Burn Land Maintenance at Fisher’s Pond
April 6, 2023: The Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) will be conducting a controlled burn at the site of Fisher’s Pond Nature Reserve located off Cedar Springs Road in Burlington the week of April 10-14, 2023. The aim of the controlled burn will be to continue the work of transforming the surrounding meadowlands into a tallgrass prairie, one of the rarest habitats in Ontario, while reducing the amount of invasive vegetative species gaining control in the area.
The controlled burn will take place on a single day between April 10 and 14, 2023. The timing of the burn must be carefully chosen based on weather and climate conditions as well as mindfulness of ecological concerns, such as reptile movements and the nesting activities of birds. As such, the exact date of the burn will be determined swiftly when conditions are appropriate. The BTC will post a notice on our website and social media channels once the date is confirmed. On the day of the burn there will be no access to the Fisher’s Pond Side Trail or the main Bruce Trail between Springer Crescent and Guelph Line. BTC Staff will be positioned at entrance points to advise trail users.
A controlled burn, also called a “prescribed burn”, is a widely used method that allows for the growth and regeneration of native grasslands. This deliberately set, carefully planned and controlled fire will be conducted by specialists from Lands & Forests Consulting, a company with extensive experience ensuring that burns are controlled, safe, and occur in such a way that minimizes smoke in the surrounding areas. Local fire services have approved the burn plan and the site will be monitored by Lands & Forests Consulting continuously until the burn is declared out.
Residents near Guelph Line and Dundas Street in Burlington and the surrounding areas may see smoke while the burn is taking place and for approximately 48 hours after the fires have been extinguished, however, smoke issues will be minimized by burning under specific wind directions and atmospheric conditions. Please be advised that visible smoke in the area is not cause for concern and firefighting services will be on standby in the highly unlikely event that emergency action is necessary.
Regular controlled burns are an important natural component in establishing and maintaining endangered plant communities restricted to prairie habitats in Ontario, which have been in steady decline over recent decades. By supporting the growth of a tallgrass prairie habitat, the BTC is working to mitigate the effects of climate change, since these habitats store carbon in the soil. This practice is also an important step in restoring and caring for Niagara Escarpment Lands, a critical priority outlined in 2030 Strategy, the BTC’s strategic plan released in March 2023.
For more information on the controlled burn at Fisher’s Pond, please visit our website.
Location
Fisher’s Pond Nature Reserve
Pt Lt 18, 19; Con 1 NDS
Burlington, ON
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Bruce Trail Conservancy Contact:
Ali Schofield, Manager of Communications
Bruce Trail Conservancy
aschofield@brucetrail.org | 905.529.6821 ext. 252
Bruce Trail Conservancy staff members and ecologists are available for interviews upon request.
About The Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts that acquires, protects and restores the vulnerable habitat and biodiversity of the UNESCO Niagara Escarpment Biosphere. For more than 50 years, we have responsibly connected people to nature through the Bruce Trail. We are a member-driven, volunteer-based, charitable organization, governed by a 19-member Board of Directors. Working with each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs, we are committed to caring for the Bruce Trail and to preserving land along its route.
Federal Government invests in the Bruce Trail Conservancy
November 24, 2022: Environment and Climate Change Canada has awarded the Bruce Trail Conservancy a prestigious five-year, $5 million matching grant through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund to help advance urgent Niagara Escarpment land securement and conservation goals.
The Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of 40 conservation partners across Canada that will share up to $109 million in funding over the next five years through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund. This funding is part of the $631 million that the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund will distribute over ten years (2021–2031) on Canadian conservation projects.
“This federal grant represents the largest government investment ever in our work. It recognizes the importance of protecting the Niagara Escarpment’s vulnerable and valuable lands, and endorses our expertise as one of Canada’s leading environmental charities.” explains Michael McDonald, CEO of the Bruce Trail Conservancy. “It will also ensure that we have the resources needed to care for and restore these precious places so that they remain healthy and protected for generations to come.”
As one of the most diverse ecoregions in Canada, the Niagara Escarpment matters in the global fight to conserve and protect biodiversity, and mitigate against the impacts of climate change. “We’re amidst a climate crisis and biodiversity crash – and the lands that we love are under threat like never before” says Michael, “together, we can protect irreplaceable Niagara Escarpment natural lands that address these challenges, and create a path to a healthier world where nature thrives, and so do we.”
The Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts and the steward of Canada’s Bruce Trail. With a 60- year conservation history of securing and stewarding Escarpment lands, the Bruce Trail Conservancy has the skills to bring more ecologically important land into the conservation corridor, as well as implement solutions to climate change. Nature-based solutions are among the most powerful tools we have to address climate change. They make a measurable difference for people and nature. The Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund is a matching grant, meaning this federal grant is dependent on support from generous donations. Every dollar donated to the Bruce Trail Conservancy through this program will be matched by Environment and Climate Change Canada, doubling the impact for the conservation of the Niagara Escarpment. To learn more about this matching opportunity, please visit brucetrail.org
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Learn More
To learn more about the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund
To learn more about this matching opportunity, please visit https://brucetrail.org/nature-smart-climate-solutions-fund-matching-opportunity/
To donate visit https://brucetrail.org/donate-NSCSF22
Bruce Trail Conservancy Contact:
Elizabeth Harrington, Director Communications and Engagement
Bruce Trail Conservancy
About The Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts that acquires, protects and restores the vulnerable habitat and biodiversity of the UNESCO Niagara Escarpment Biosphere. For more than 50 years, we have responsibly connected people to nature through the Bruce Trail. We are a member-driven, volunteer-based, charitable organization, governed by a 19-member Board of Directors. Working with each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs, we are committed to caring for the Bruce Trail and to preserving land along its route.
Bruce Trail Conservancy sets its sights on protecting two vital habitats in Ontario
December 16, 2021: Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) has launched a fundraising campaign to protect two vital habitats with the creation of Balsam Wetlands Nature Reserve and Eugenia Woods Nature Reserve, both about an hour outside of Toronto.
To date, the Bruce Trail Conservancy has preserved over 12,700 acres of Niagara Escarpment habitats and makes them available to explore through 1,300 km of trails. But, our work is not done. Climate change contributes to the destruction of rich biodiversity, which negatively impacts our Ontario communities and our quality of life. Thankfully, the BTC knows what to do. Protecting more nature across the Niagara Escarpment is a solution, but we need to act now.
At Balsam Wetlands Nature Reserve, an impressive coniferous swamp of mature Balsam Fir and White Cedar supports a diverse web of life. Rare species like Black Ash and Hart’s-tongue Fern are both thriving in this nature reserve. Wetlands help slow the effects of climate change. They store carbon, improve the quality of our waters and act like giant sponges controlling flooding, and sheltering sensitive species. Despite their undisputed value for the environment, wetlands are disappearing across Ontario.
Eugenia Woods Nature Reserve is nestled near the iconic Eugenia Falls. The soaring Sugar Maple forests of Eugenia Woods combine with those of neighbouring protected spaces to create an important wildlife corridor nearly 18 km long. Forests, like those at Eugenia Woods, purify the air we breathe, filter the water we drink, prevent erosion, cool our waterways, and reduce the effects of extreme weather. Forests help stabilize the climate. To maximize the climate benefits of forests, we must keep more forest landscapes intact.
Up until now, these important pieces of the Niagara Escarpment have remained unprotected. The total cost to preserve these two new nature reserves and protect their precious habitats is $3.6 million. But, we’re well on our way! Your thoughtful donation can help us raise the remaining $1.8 million needed to ensure these wetlands and woods, and the gifts they give us, are protected forever.
“Protecting lands along the Niagara Escarpment is critical in addressing climate change, and the global loss of biodiversity. These nature reserves are two of the remaining pieces needed to create a continuous conservation corridor along the Niagara Escarpment. And, with 4.5km of Bruce Trail carefully routed on the properties, these unique landscapes will be available for you to explore. Your generosity will ensure that nature continues to nourish our lives today, and into the future.”
— Michael McDonald, CEO, Bruce Trail Conservancy
To learn more about our protected natural areas, visit our Protected Natural Areas page.
Bruce Trail Conservancy Contact:
Elizabeth Harrington, Director Communications and Engagement
Bruce Trail Conservancy
About The Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts that acquires, protects and restores the vulnerable habitat and biodiversity of the UNESCO Niagara Escarpment Biosphere. For more than 50 years, we have responsibly connected people to nature through the Bruce Trail. We are a member-driven, volunteer-based, charitable organization, governed by a 19-member Board of Directors. Working with each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs, we are committed to caring for the Bruce Trail and to preserving land along its route.
Bruce Trail Conservancy has announced the largest solo acquisition of land in the organization’s history
Thanks to generous donations, the Bruce Trail Conservancy is continuing their mission having secured over 500 acres in a breathtaking new nature reserve on the iconic Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula
August, 31, 2021: The Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) today announced that they have acquired the MapleCross Nature Reserve at Cape Chin, marking the largest solo acquisition of land in BTC history.
With over 500 acres of iconic Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula landscape, a breathtaking 270-degree view of Georgian Bay, and 1.8 kilometers of Bruce Trail, Cape Chin is a natural masterpiece and an important step for conservation in Ontario. This nature reserve is helping save critical natural spaces for Species at Risk, restore overgrazed lands, monitor wetlands, and remove invasive species – all important activities to addressing the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.
“We are powered by our mission to preserve a ribbon of wilderness for everyone, forever by creating a permanent protected natural corridor along the Niagara Escarpment. This addition to our conservation corridor protects sensitive ecosystems while offering a fantastic hiking experience along the iconic Bruce Trail,” said Michael McDonald, CEO of the Bruce Trail Conservancy. “We would like to sincerely thank all 1,500 of the generous donors who have made this nature reserve possible.”
Protecting land like the MapleCross Nature Reserve at Cape Chin adds to the conservation corridor the BTC is creating, which proves to be significant in addressing the impacts of climate change. The restoration of the forest on the property will help to provide more natural solutions to climate change by increasing the local tree population and creating more opportunities for natural carbon sequestration. Several wetlands exist on the property, which play their important role in filtering water and providing habitat for insects, reptiles, amphibians and birds.
“Our donors have made conservation a priority. They have led the way to ensure the protection of irreplaceable natural land along the Niagara Escarpment.” Marsha Russell, Vice President of Fund Development at the Bruce Trail Conservancy continues, “The creation of this nature reserve is helping to address the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss while allowing public access in an environmentally responsible way.”
The BTC is a registered charity and conservation of the Niagara Escarpment is funded by a community of generous donors working to ensure the Escarpment’s unique habitat and biodiversity are protected. The BTC is also one of Ontario’s largest land trusts and the steward of Canada’s longest marked footpath – the Bruce Trail. Driven by over 1,400 volunteers and 13,000 members, they actively preserve and care for over 12,700 acres of land within the Niagara Escarpment UNESCO World Biosphere to protect its ecosystems for the benefit of all. Working with each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs, they are committed to caring for the Bruce Trail and to preserving land along its route.
Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts who actively preserves and cares for the vulnerable ecosystems of the Niagara Escarpment UNESCO World Biosphere for the benefit of all. For more than 50 years, we have responsibly connected people to nature through the Bruce Trail and our protected natural areas.
We are a member-driven, volunteer-based, charitable organization, governed by a 19-member Board of Directors. Working with each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs, we are committed to caring for the Bruce Trail and to preserving land along its route.
Throughout Ontario’s pandemic, the Bruce Trail Conservancy continues to adhere to all shifting public health guidelines in respect to trail visitation. Our hiking program and our guidelines to hikers may need to change as this guidance changes. Currently, as the Province is in Step 3 of the re-opening plan, hiking guidelines for personal hiking remain: Plan ahead, expect no facilities, practice physical distancing and leave no trace. For more information please visit brucetrail.org.
Media Contact:
Elizabeth Harrington, Director Communications and Engagement
Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy re-affirms strong interest in permanently securing the Bruce Trail on the former Talisman Resort lands
August 19, 2021: As the process to determine the future of the former Talisman Resort lands continues, the Bruce Trail Conservancy reaffirms their strong interest and commitment to securing the Bruce Trail in this location.
The Bruce Trail has crossed these lands by verbal agreement since 1965. This section of Trail forms part of an 86 kilometre continuous route through the Beaver Valley that links with the Town of Blue Mountains and the Municipality of Meaford. It is evident that the Trail passing through the former Talisman Resort lands forms a critical link between a chain of publicly owned lands, including Bruce Trail Conservancy lands secured specifically for the Bruce Trail, and its conservation corridor. Understanding the importance of this route, the Bruce Trail Conservancy is optimistic public access in this location will be maintained, permanently.
The Bruce Trail in this location provides all-season recreation to local residents and visitors to the area. More than 8 million Ontarians live within a 90-minute drive of the Niagara Escarpment and countless others travel further to enjoy this ribbon of wilderness. If permission to cross these lands is withdrawn, it would force the Trail and thousands of hikers every year to use busy roads. The Bruce Trail Conservancy hopes to continue to provide this amenity and to promote the Bruce Trail through Grey Highlands as a destination to these visitors, and in doing so, provide important economic support to area businesses.
“The Bruce Trail Conservancy is guided by our strong mission, and we commit to working with any and all stakeholders to protect the continuity of Canada’s oldest and longest public footpath. As one of Ontario’s largest land trusts, and creators and stewards of the Bruce Trail, we balance conservation and recreation priorities, and share in a commitment to building active healthy communities.”
— Michael McDonald, CEO of the Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy Contact:
Elizabeth Harrington, Director Communications and Engagement
Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts that acquires, protects and restores the vulnerable habitat and biodiversity of the UNESCO Niagara Escarpment Biosphere. For more than 50 years, we have responsibly connected people to nature through the Bruce Trail. We are a member-driven, volunteer-based, charitable organization, governed by a 19-member Board of Directors. Working with each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs, we are committed to caring for the Bruce Trail and to preserving land along its route.
Bruce Trail Conservancy hopes new Trail Ambassadors will help encourage responsible hiking
June 17, 2021: On the Bruce Trail this summer, you’ll see a few new faces helping with onsite education. The Bruce Trail Conservancy has hired six Trail Ambassadors to perform visitor outreach and litter clean-ups at popular places in three regions: Hamilton/Halton, Beaver Valley, and the Bruce Peninsula.
As more people seek the physical and mental benefits of walking in nature, some areas of the Niagara Escarpment have become hotspots, seeing more human-caused impact than the environment can handle. The high volumes of trail users include those who may not be familiar with trail etiquette. Litter, trespassing, and other poor behaviours are impacting the trail, the environment, other trail users, and landowners whose property the Bruce Trail crosses.
So together with Bruce Trail Club volunteers, these summer staff will visit busy trail destinations to promote leave no trace practices and safe trail use. They’ll even be distributing “Hike it. Love it. Keep it Clean.” badges to those who join them in picking up litter or who are demonstrating low impact hiking. To encourage safe and responsible hiking, the Bruce Trail Conservancy has also created some helpful online tips: Hiking-Safely-&-Responsibly
“More people using the Bruce Trail is not a bad thing, in itself. It is wonderful that people have discovered the Bruce Trail as a way to connect with nature. For these trails and protected areas to continue to thrive, the Bruce Trail Conservancy, its partners, and all its supporters must work together to ensure that the cumulative impact of all our visits is minimized.”
— Adam Brylowski, Manager of Conservation and Trail
Bruce Trail Conservancy Contact:
Elizabeth Harrington, Director Communications and Engagement
Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts that acquires, protects and restores the vulnerable habitat and biodiversity of the UNESCO Niagara Escarpment Biosphere. For more than 50 years, we have responsibly connected people to nature through the Bruce Trail. We are a member-driven, volunteer-based, charitable organization, governed by a 19-member Board of Directors. Working with each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs, we are committed to caring for the Bruce Trail and to preserving land along its route.
Check out the BTC’s social media accounts for profiles on our 6 new BTC Trail Ambassadors:
Devastation at local Nature Reserve leads to enhanced security
May 20, 2021: The Bruce Trail Conservancy is pleading to Dufferin County community members to keep vehicles and ATVs out of the Pine River Nature Reserve as devastation to property and escalating criminal behaviours have reached a critical point. This past weekend several trespassers entered the property and destroyed fencing, blockades and signage in addition to further damaging sensitive habitat. The OPP is currently investigating.
No vehicles of any type are permitted on the Pine River Nature Reserve. To ensure no additional damage comes to the Nature Reserve, security is now in place, and OPP has agreed to step up patrols in the area.
The Bruce Trail Conservancy continues to conserve and protect precious Niagara Escarpment land to give home to important habitat, and Pine River is no exception. Wetlands, like the ones found on the Pine River Nature Reserve represent a critical and disappearing landscape in southern Ontario. Mature Sugar Maples dominate the rolling terrain of Pine River Nature Reserve. Pockets of towering Eastern Hemlock, American Beech and White Cedar amidst the maples round out the forest. When protected from logging and development, forests contain trees that live to be hundreds of years old and offer essential habitat for a vibrant ecosystem.
Several ecological restoration projects are slated to take place on the Pine River Nature Reserve to enhance biodiversity and restore this 192 acre ecosystem to its natural splendor.
“Through generous donations from within this local community the BTC was able to purchase and permanently protect this ecologically important land. Local residents love this place and have also raised funds to help with its restoration. Local volunteers have donated hundreds of hours to this project and it’s sad to see a few individuals purposely undo this important work. We intend to press charges once the investigation is complete.”
— Michael McDonald, CEO of the Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy Contact:
Elizabeth Harrington, Director Communications and Engagement
Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts that acquires, protects and restores the vulnerable habitat and biodiversity of the UNESCO Niagara Escarpment Biosphere. For more than 50 years, we have responsibly connected people to nature through the Bruce Trail. We are a member-driven, volunteer-based, charitable organization, governed by a 19-member Board of Directors. Working with each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs, we are committed to caring for the Bruce Trail and to preserving land along its route.
Bruce Trail Conservancy encourages responsible hiking this May long weekend
May 19, 2021: As we approach this May long weekend, Bruce Trail Conservancy’s CEO, Michael McDonald would like to remind everyone who will visit the Bruce Trail that with every step and choice made, there is an impact on the sensitive environments around the Trail.
STAY ON THE MARKED TRAIL
Hiking along the marked (“blazed”) routes, avoiding ‘off-trail’ use, will ensure that sensitive vegetation is not damaged, and relationships with our private landowners are not strained. The Trail ensures the impact on the environment you’re visiting is minimal. Learn how to read the blazes, and when in doubt, follow the blazes. If the blazes don’t match your map, the blazes always take precedence. If you lose the Trail, go back to the place where a blaze was last seen.
BE MINDFUL OF LANDOWNER PROPERTY
Private landowners are critical conservation partners of the Bruce Trail Conservancy. Landowners graciously allow the Bruce Trail on their property, while simultaneously contributing to healthier and more biodiverse Niagara Escarpment ecosystems. Trespassing on their properties can strain valuable relationships and could lead to a request to remove the Trail from their land. When this access to the Trail has been revoked the entire continuity of the Bruce Trail is threatened.
PARK SAFELY AND LEGALLY
Parking lots fill up quickly. Because of the increase in visitors and our limited parking availability, there has been an increase in illegal parking. The Bruce Trail Conservancy has plans to install a number of new parking lots along the length of the Trail in areas where they are most needed. In the meantime, consider planning your visit to the Bruce Trail during off-peak times (early morning or weekdays) and avoid parking on roadways. If a parking area is full, please consider another location, perhaps one you can walk to.
TAKE ONLY PICTURES, AND LEAVE WITH MEMORIES
Perhaps the most well-known rule is to leave no trace. This means that no one should be able to know you were exploring the Niagara Escarpment. Whatever you brought in, you need to bring out. Leave flowers and plants for others to enjoy, and avoid acts of vandalism, such as carving your initials in a tree or a rock face. These simple deeds protect the sensitive species and habitats along the Niagara Escarpment.
“It’s our mission to protect natural places and encourage people to explore nature’s wonders by way of the Bruce Trail. Spending time in nature is critical for exercise and optimal mental health. Please act responsibly, with care and kindness for others, and for the environment.”
— Michael McDonald, CEO of the Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy Contact:
Elizabeth Harrington, Director Communications and Engagement
Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy
Bruce Trail Conservancy is one of Ontario’s largest land trusts that acquires, protects and restores the vulnerable habitat and biodiversity of the UNESCO Niagara Escarpment Biosphere. For more than 50 years, we have responsibly connected people to nature through the Bruce Trail. We are a member-driven, volunteer-based, charitable organization, governed by a 19-member Board of Directors. Working with each of the nine Bruce Trail Clubs, we are committed to caring for the Bruce Trail and to preserving land along its route
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