Ontario Trillium Foundation Capital Grant will support the ongoing maintenance of KLT’s public access footpaths and the stewardship of its protected lands
On Friday, MPP Laurie Scott met with representatives from Kawartha Land Trust (KLT) at the group’s Ballyduff Trails nature reserve in Kawartha Lakes to celebrate the work done as a result of receiving a $72,800 Capital grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) last fall to supports our Solar Solutions Project.
“Kawartha Land Trust has enhanced their efforts by using the funds provided by the Ontario Trillium Foundation to purchase equipment that’s assisting with their efforts to maintain the trails,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “This environmentally friendly equipment will be put to good use to continue to improve the landscape and make the trails enjoyable for all.”
The funds from the grant supported the purchase of solar and battery-powered field equipment and the installation of a solar charging station that strengthens KLT’s ability to maintain its public access footpaths and support ongoing stewardship work in an environmentally friendly manner. Having sustainable infrastructure and tools in the field to maintain KLT’s public access footpaths and help restore sensitive ecosystems is a key part of KLT’s continued growth as the region’s charitable land trust.
“The Ontario Trillium Foundation Capital grant gives Kawartha Land Trust the ability to maintain our public access footpaths and carry out restoration work on our protected properties across the Kawarthas for the benefit of our community and the environment,” said Hayden Wilson, Land Stewardship Manager.
“Having a fleet of solar-charged tools and equipment like chainsaws and mowers and a secure central base will enable more KLT staff and volunteers to work on land care tasks at our nature reserves and with less impact on the environment.”
Kawartha Land Trust protects over 7,000 acres of ecologically important lands across the Kawarthas, which includes its largest property, the 1,400-acre Hammer Family Nature Preserve, which was announced in February. In addition to KLT’s public access footpaths, the organization also hosts a popular Passport to Nature program, connecting the community with nature throughout the year through a series of outdoor events.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the Kawartha 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 that it remains 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.
