As the ECA begins its fifth year as an organization, we want to recognize all of the generous and loyal donors that supported the ECA with a gift in 2025.
In late October we announced our most ambitious fundraising goal yet, to raise $250,000 by December 31st to complete the fundraising for our first last trust property – Sandy’s Summit Nature Preserve. We were thrilled with how quickly and generously our donors responded and helped us exceed this goal.
2025 was a landmark year for ECA. With the support of our donors, partners, and community, we achieved milestones that fundamentally strengthened our ability to protect nature at scale. Our 2025 Annual Report will offer a comprehensive recap when it is released this spring.
Here are some of our greatest achievements from 2025:
- Became an official conservation land trust, expanding our ability to permanently protect ecologically significant lands
- Closed the Metcalfe North Securement Project, now known as Sandy’s Summit Nature Preserve.
- Worked with the Bruce Trail Conservancy to protect the former Talisman Mountain Resort property
These accomplishments reflect years of groundwork—and the collective commitment of a community that believes in balancing people and nature through connection and stewardship.
In 2026, we are building on the action-based momentum from last fall.
With our first land securement project officially closed, the ECA is entering an exciting new phase as a land trust. This year, we are prioritizing: Preserving five new land securement projects
Hosting the inaugural ECA – Annual Community Update Event in June (we will be pausing the Nature Corridor Summit until 2027)
Investing in taking tactical steps towards a conservation solution for Castle Glen
Continuing to engage the community through on-the-land events and educational programming
Deepening relationships with regional First Nations and appointing an Indigenous Conservation Lead to our Board of Directors
Engaging the farming community to explore the “intersection of conservation and agriculture.”
Conducting a wetland study within our area of influence to identify wetlands not currently recognized in the provincial database to strengthen protection
Thank you for being part of this journey. Every step forward—from land protection to restoration to community engagement—is made possible because of your support. We look forward to sharing what comes next as we continue working together to ensure a resilient, connected future for nature in South Georgian Bay and beyond.
