The Northumberland Land Trust (NLT) has announced the creation of its 17th protected nature reserve: the Willow Lane Nature Reserve.
The 140-acre property near Beagle Club Road and County Road 9 was donated by Ms. Wilson and Mr. Leckie, who have cared for the land since 2002. The property features a variety of natural habitats including mixed forest, rolling valleys, and young woodland planted by the donors.
“This land donation is a meaningful addition to our growing network of conservation lands,” said NLT President Rob Kennedy. “Its location near the Hazel Bird Nature Reserve supports our shared goal of creating connected green corridors in Northumberland County.”
To complete the donation, the couple asked that their house be severed from the land so they could remain on the property. They will continue their involvement by joining the Trust’s Property Stewards Team.
“Some people want to donate land but still remain engaged in its care,” Kennedy said.
Land donations involve legal costs, appraisals, and township approvals that can add up to $40,000, in addition to ongoing stewardship expenses. The Northumberland Land Trust received support for this project from Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund.
The Trust is a non-profit organisation committed to protecting Northumberland’s natural heritage through land donations, conservation agreements, and public education.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
