Matching donors are stepping up to help with the Northumberland Land Trust’s (NLT) bid to co-purchase the 306-acre Biddy Creek Wetland in Brighton.
As previously reported, the organization, in partnership with Ducks Unlimited Canada, wants to create the largest nature reserve in the trust’s history with this purchase.
The trust has now announced a $40,000 matching gift challenge in support of the not-for-profit charity’s efforts to raise $190,000 to complete the purchase, scheduled for the end of January 2025. To date, more than $33,000 has already been raised towards the acquisition, according to the organization.
“A few donors have approached us and pledged to match future donations up to $40,000,” explained Rob Kennedy, president of the Northumberland Land Trust. “If successful, that would add $80,000 to our fundraising and push us over the $110,000 mark, which is almost 60 per cent of our ultimate goal.”
Simply put, the impact of individual gifts will now be doubled with the launch of the matching gift campaign.
The land trust and Ducks Unlimited are proposing purchasing the property as joint owners. NLT will serve as stewards for the property, “which features an untouched wetland rich in biodiversity, with no human development.”
Once acquired, the land trust has vowed to keep the property free from development and protect it as a vital ecological habitat.
The property borders the south side of Hwy. 401, north of Little Lake Road in Brighton.
A regionally important wetland makes up about 60 to 70 per cent of the property, while significant mixed woodlands make up a portion of the most east parcel, explained NTL officials, noting the majority of the property is already zoned for environmental protection.
“Wetlands play a crucial role in protecting against flooding, drought, and climate change,” emphasized officials. “They support hundreds of species by providing safe places to feed, shelter, and raise young.
“They also offer opportunities for recreation and education, while cleaning the water in our lakes, rivers, and beaches.”
To learn more about the wetlands and campaign, visit the Northumberland Land Trust online.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
