Open House

After undergoing various studies, ecological inventories, and an Indigenous land visioning exercise with the local First Nation, here are the findings. In this survey, you can view maps of the Lake Simcoe Conservation Preserve with areas outlined for potential different land uses. Based on outreach and research (find more details on the project page), these outlines are recommendations for what activities would be most appropriate at those sites. Please note: the land use categories are listed alphabetically, not prioritized.

If you have any questions or need any clarification on this, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Farming has long been an important part of the local community, and it will continue to have a place at the Preserve in ways that support both people and the environment.

The Comprehensive Stewardship Plan will outline how farming will look on the Preserve, and the types of agriculture practiced may change over time. The focus will be on sustainable and environmentally responsible approaches aligned with the long term health of the land. This includes following recognized Best Management Practices (BMPs) and reducing or eliminating the use of pesticides and herbicides whenever possible.

Agriculture on the Preserve (shown in red lines below) may include a variety of activities — such as cash crops, food production, community farming initiatives, and individual garden plots for local residents. These uses will help strengthen local food systems, support community connections, and ensure the land continues to be cared for in a thoughtful and environmentally friendly way.

This property was acquired first and foremost to protect the land and its natural features for the long term. When the transfer took place, all development rights were removed, and the land was formally designated for Environmental Protection. A Minister’s Zoning Order (MZO) now sets strict limits on what activities can take place, ensuring the Preserve remains focused on protecting nature and supporting healthy ecosystems.

Now that the property is protected, the next step is to enhance biodiversity and strengthen ecological health. This will include restoration activities such as improving habitat, increasing native species, and supporting the natural systems that make the area ecologically important.

These restoration efforts will be planned alongside other low‑impact uses such as walking trails, nature appreciation, and designated gathering spaces so that people can enjoy the area while still protecting its natural value.

The North Tract, the largest continuous section of the Preserve, has been identified as a priority area for protection and restoration (shown in green below). It contains extensive Provincially Significant Wetlands (shown in purple below) and large interior forests that provide essential habitat for sensitive and rare species. Protecting this area helps preserve one of the largest natural forest blocks in the Lake Simcoe watershed.

Even with the North Tract set aside for environmental protection, over 100 hectares elsewhere on the property remain available for a variety of community‑supported uses (as seen in the additional maps).

Gathering spaces (shown in orange below) provide designated areas where community members can come together, socialize, and participate in low-impact activities. These locations have already experienced significant past disturbance and currently support low levels of biodiversity and ecological value. Historically, they were used for homesteads, barns, and other agricultural purposes; therefore, establishing gathering spaces in these areas will not adversely affect the property’s existing natural features or ecological integrity.

Potential gathering space amenities may include parking areas, trailhead kiosks, picnic zones with mowed lawn, open-sided shelter pavilions, and possibly an arboretum. These features are intended to enhance visitor experience while directing activity away from more sensitive ecological areas on the property.

This tract (outlined in yellow below) was identified as the most significant area from an Indigenous perspective during the Land Relationship Visioning exercise, conducted in collaboration with an Indigenous Consultant and the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. The property contains natural features and species with important cultural and traditional significance to Indigenous Peoples, offering meaningful opportunities for cultural education, ceremony, and the continuation of traditional practices.

While the highlighted area represents the primary focus for Indigenous activities, Indigenous use will not be confined to one area. The remainder of the property also holds potential to support culturally significant uses. The Conservation Authority is committed to working collaboratively to accommodate additional appropriate locations that align with both community needs and the long‑term stewardship goals of the property.

Passive recreation areas (shown in purple below) are designated spaces for the public to enjoy self‑directed activities such as hiking, nature appreciation, and quiet contemplation.

The proposed passive recreation area covers more than 55 hectares, which is equivalent to approximately 93 football fields. Its size and existing conditions make it an exceptional location for exploring passive recreation opportunities. Many of the sites within this area have already been altered in the past, which helps reduce potential impacts to biodiversity and ecological integrity when building low‑impact infrastructure such as trails or viewing platforms.

Passive recreation in these highlighted areas may include walking trails, boardwalks, viewing platforms, and way‑finding or interpretive signage. Trail types will vary in accessibility depending on site conditions, ensuring a mix of experiences while still protecting sensitive ecological features.