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 33 properties that include more than 5,350 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.
Originally called “Kawartha Hertitage Conservancy,” Kawartha Land Trust became a reality when its federal letters patent were issued on November 23, 2001, and its charitable status took effect on January 1, 2002.
We remain grateful to the early visionaries, KLT’s first board members — Phred Collins, Barbara Heidenreich, Terry Rees, and Mieke Schipper — and its first Executive Director, Ian Attridge, for starting a powerful conservation movement in the Kawarthas.
Photo: Kawartha Land Trust staff member on site visit at KLT’s Falls Property.
Abundant natural and productive lands that are embraced, protected, and conserved by the people of the Kawarthas to sustain and enrich life.
Caring for lands entrusted to us and helping others protect the land they love in the Kawarthas.
We value natural environments, healthy ecosystems, and diverse landscapes and are committed to protecting and restoring them so that the many benefits they provide may be sustained.
We value the trust and confidence placed in us and will demonstrate integrity and transparency in our conservation decisions, actions, and advocacy.
"Widening the circle" of those we engage with, and who share in the benefits of 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.
With global goals and Canadian commitments as guideposts, we will work to maximize the contribution of natural climate solutions to the health and well-being of people in the Kawarthas.
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.
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.
During 2022, Kawartha Land Trust (KLT) engaged in a consultation process with volunteers, donors, supporters, and community stakeholders to guide the organization’s strategic planning process.
The result, which we are pleased to now share, is Kawartha Land Trust’s 2023-2030 Strategic Plan.
This document will guide KLT’s work through the next eight years so that we may continue to increase our conservation impact and play a leading role in stewarding a healthy future in the Kawarthas for all.
We would like to express our immense gratitude to all who participated in KLT’s strategic planning process.
Protecting the land we love for a healthy and sustainable future.
Read KLT's yearly reports and financials to learn more about our conservation work in the Kawarthas and how your support made an impact on our shared landscape.
Interested in joining the KLT staff team to help protect the land you love? Learn about current opportunities.
