Wilson/Leckie donation will create the 16th property under the land trust’s care

MEDIA RELEASE

Cobourg, ON, June 4, 2024 – The Northumberland Land Trust (NLT) today announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding for the future acquisition of more than 140 acres of land near Beagle Club Road and County Road 9. This is the second land donation in 2024.

The Wilson/Leckie property is part of the Oak Ridges Moraine and sits on the high ground south of Rice Lake. It includes multiple habitats including some active agricultural land, and a valley with a seasonal creek and an abundance of hawthorn. As you move north there is a young forest, much of which has been planted by the donors over the past 20 years. At the top end of the property is a mature mixed forest. The variety of habitats and large size make this a biologically valuable property.

“Ms. Wilson and Mr. Leckie have nurtured this property since they purchased the property in 2002,” said Rob Kennedy, President of the Northumberland Land Trust. “It is close to Hazel Bird Nature Reserve, which is owned by the Nature Conservancy of Canada. Their proximity will help us with our mutually shared goal of creating green corridors between the natural habitats in Northumberland County.”

Ms. Wilson and Mr. Leckie began the process of donating this property this year. They required that their house be severed from the surrounding property so that they could remain in their home. They also wish to remain the stewards of the land, and will become members of the NLT’s Property Stewards Team. Once the severance and donation of the property are complete, there will be an event commemorating the land donation.

“Some people want to donate their land and remain actively involved with its care,” added Mr. Kennedy. “At the request of the donor, the NLT will also apply to the Ecogift program which could exempt the donation from any capital gains if it qualifies. Donations of land have tax implications and require an appraisal, severance, surveys, legal documents and township approval, and this process can cost up to $40,000 as well as ongoing stewardship costs. Donations are key to covering these expenses.”

People can donate through the website at nltrust.ca or contact us at [email protected] or call: 416-220-680

About Northumberland Land Trust

The Northumberland Land Trust is committed to preserving the natural heritage of Northumberland County. Its mandate is to establish, maintain and manage protected areas. The Northumberland Land Trust is a not for profit, charitable organization, which accepts donations of land, enters into conservation agreements for the permanent protection of natural landscapes, forests, farms and waterways and provides public education and information on land conservation tools. The Trust also raises funds to purchase land in Northumberland County, Ontario, Canada for the purposes of conservation. The Trust is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors representing a cross section of the community including landowners, farmers, business people and professionals.

For more information please contact:

[email protected] nltrust.ca