For Immediate Release
April 28, 2026听
The UTRCA Contributes 855.76 Hectares to Canada's 30脳30 Project in Partnership with Ontario Nature
The 糖心直播 (UTRCA), in collaboration with Ontario Nature, is proud to announce the contribution of 855.76 hectares of natural areas and provincially significant swamp land towards Canada's target of protecting and conserving 30% of our lands and waters by 2030, known commonly as the 30脳30 target.听
The partnership with Ontario Nature听facilitated听an assessment of UTRCA lands,听determining听that 16 properties will be registered under the Protected Areas designation in the Canadian Protected and Conserved Areas Database. This marks a significant step towards halting and reversing biodiversity loss in the Upper Thames River watershed.听
Notable areas include Harrington Conservation Area (CA), Dorchester CA, and Embro CA. Each of these areas consist of mixed woodland and coniferous plantations听centred听around a small dam and pond. "Protecting these lands through long-term conservation measures supports habitat for species at risk, reduces the impacts of flood events, and provides recreational opportunities" said Brandon Williamson, Land Management Coordinator, UTRCA.听
The full list of properties includes: W.L Dickson Arboretum,听Beachville听Tract, Cade Tract, Dorchester CA, Dorchester Mill Pond, Downey Tract, Embro CA, Fish Creek CA, Gads Hill North and South,听Golspie听Swamp, Harrington CA, Ivey Tract, Kintore Swamp, Lowthian Flats, Shakespeare CA, and Westminster (Dingman).听
This initiative has helped us further reach our vision of partnering to protect and promote听a healthy environment听and resilient communities.听
Media Contact:听
Brandon Williamson, Land Management Coordinator, UTRCA
519-451-2800听ext听296
[email protected]听
Beachville Tract
Harrington Conservation Area