This fox kit was caught on camera recently. The Northumberland Land Trust’s 14 – soon to be 15 – nature reserves protect all kinds of precious wildlife. / Northumberland Land Trust Facebook photo
The Northumberland Land Trust is acquiring another 80-plus acres of land just east of Castleton.
On Tuesday, May 14, the trust announced it had signed a memorandum of understanding for the future acquisition of more than 80 acres just east of Castleton, describing the property as mostly forested with several small streams running through it, as well as a large pond.
A broad selection of trees grow at the property, including some of considerable age, noted the trust.
“Ms. Dari Haddon has cared for the property as if it were a nature reserve since she purchased the property in 2007,” noted Rob Kennedy, president of the Northumberland Land Trust. “Only walking has taken place on the trails in the forest, and there has been no off-road vehicle use on the property.”
Small ravines along the steam edge are particularly lovely and lined with old hemlock and white pine, noted the trust. And the southern-most part has a small hayfield that is attractive to grassland species.
Haddon started the process of donating the property in 2023.
She required her house be severed from the surrounding property so she could continue to live in her home, explained officials. She also wanted to remain a steward of the land, so will become a member of NLT’s stewardship committee.
Once the severance and donation of the property are complete, there will be an event commemorating the donation, added the organization.
This donation will create the 15th property under the land trust’s care.
“Some people want to donate their land and remain actively involved with its care,” explained Kennedy. “At the request of Ms. Haddon, the NLT will also apply to the Eco-gift 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,” explained Kennedy.
To learn more about donations, visit the NLT’s website or contact the trust via info@nltust.ca or 416-220-6807.
The Northumberland Land Trust is committed to preserving the natural heritage of Northumberland County. Its mandate is to establish, maintain and manage protected areas.
It is described as 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.
NLT also raises funds to purchase lands locally for conservation purposes. It is governed by a volunteer board of directors.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
