About KLT

Kawartha Land Trust (KLT) is a dynamic land conservation charity with an impressive track record of growth. Our mission is to care for the lands entrusted to us and help others protect the land they love in the Kawarthas. We create nature reserves for future generations by acquiring ecologically important properties and/or interests in properties. We also enhance our stewardship of the land by engaging landowners in land care initiatives through our Partners in Conservation program.

Founded in 2001, KLT protects 31 properties that include more than 5,250 acres of ecologically diverse lands, some of which include hiking trails that introduce thousands of people to nature in the Kawarthas every year. We have achieved our successes through the work of our dedicated and growing team of donors, volunteers and supporters. Together, we can ensure more natural spaces in the Kawarthas are preserved forever.

KLT works within the Treaty 20 Michi Saagiig Territory and we are dedicated to continuing to create meaningful connections and relationships with First Nations communities in our region as we build upon these connections.

Our Vision

Abundant natural and productive lands that are embraced, protected, and conserved by the people of the Kawarthas to sustain and enrich life.

Our Mission

Caring for lands entrusted to us and helping others protect the land they love in the Kawarthas.

Our Values

Engaging in focused climate action: With global goals and Canadian commitments as guideposts, we will work to maximize the contribution of natural climate solutions to the health and wellbeing of people in the Kawarthas.

Acting with integrity and transparency: We value the trust and confidence placed in us and will demonstrate integrity and transparency in our conservation decisions, actions, and advocacy. Embracing creativity, adaptability, and the joy of our work: We welcome new ideas and ways of thinking, experimenting when and where it is appropriate, and finding joy in our accomplishments and the hope that these activities generate.

Working for the benefit of all: “Widening the circle” of those we engage with, and who share in the benefits of our collective activity, is important. KLT will consult and collaborate with community members to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in all areas of our work.

Honouring the Williams Treaties: Acknowledging that we live and work on a landscape governed by Indigenous rights, treaties, diverse perspectives, and settlements, KLT is committed to strengthening our understanding of our treaty obligations and creating ethical space to collaborate with Williams Treaties First Nations in the spirit of reciprocity.

Land Acknowledgement

We respectfully acknowledge that Kawartha Land Trust is located within Treaty 20 Michi Saagiig Anishnaabeg territory on the traditional homelands and territory of the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Nations, collectively known as the Williams Treaties First Nations.

We offer our gratitude to First Nations for their care for and teachings about our Earth and our relationship to it. Kawartha Land Trust strives to honour these teachings through stewardship, respect for the land we protect, and expanded collaboration with Williams Treaties First Nations and other Indigenous peoples.