What Are Land Trusts?

Land Trusts are non-profit, charitable organizations that acquire land or interests in land (like conservation easements) for the purpose of conservation. They take direct action to protect the local land base and hold those lands or conservation easements in trust for future generations.

OLTA is proud to work with the national land trust community.

Why do Land Trusts Matter?

A land trust is a non-profit organization committed to conserving and protecting natural lands for the benefit of communities and the environment.

Success Stories

“OLTA was instrumental in making things easier for land trusts. The need for an umbrella organization became apparent when the smaller land trusts were trying to get changes made but not having the clout to be heard… A common approach is to have an umbrella organization to make the members stronger. That goal – the end result – is what OLTA started with and still has.”

Rideau Waterway Land Trust

“Perhaps most importantly, [OLTA] has been vital to our ability to network with and learn from our colleagues. These relationships have been priceless for professional development and sometimes for moral support and coaching in difficult times.”

The Couchiching Conservancy

Thanks to OLTA, we’ve worked with, and learned from, some of the most hardworking, experienced experts in habitat preservation and restoration in Ontario. The Annual Gathering, Canadian Land Trust Standards and Practices workshops, and the many incredible programs OLTA provides are forums that pull these inspiring individuals together ."

Bruce Trail Conservancy

“OLTA lines up opportunities and looks after the details and we will get out there and do [the on-the-ground work]."

Thunder Bay Field Naturalists

A Legacy of Land Conservation

Through strategic conservation efforts and collaborative partnerships, land trusts are committed to safeguarding biodiversity, protecting habitats, and honouring Indigenous land stewardship traditions. Land Trusts have a focus on caring for the land while respecting those with previous relationships and partnerships.

How do land trusts work?

Ontario land trusts employ various strategies to acquire and manage land, aligning with their mission of conservation and responsible land use. Acquisition methods often involve collaborations with willing landowners, where trusts may purchase or receive land through donations or conservation easements.

Conservation easements are legal agreements that restrict certain types of development on the land, ensuring its protection while allowing landowners to retain ownership. In some cases, land trusts may work with government agencies, foundations, or other organizations to secure funding for acquisitions. The process is guided by a commitment to preserving critical habitats, protecting biodiversity, and maintaining the ecological integrity of the acquired lands.

Once land is under the stewardship of an Ontario land trust, careful management becomes paramount. Trusts implement land management plans that may include activities like invasive species removal, habitat restoration, and sustainable forestry practices.

Engaging local communities and volunteers is often a key aspect, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the conservation goals.

Land trusts may offer educational programs and guided tours to raise awareness about the importance of the preserved areas. Through these efforts, Ontario land trusts actively contribute to the long-term health of natural landscapes while promoting public appreciation for the region’s rich biodiversity.

Ontario Land Trust Alliance (OLTA) is a registered charity focused on providing community, knowledge sharing and support to land trusts and other groups committed to land conservation across Ontario.

What Are Land Trusts?

Why do Land Trusts Matter?

Protecting Biodiversity

Climate Resilience

Farmland Conservation

Equitable Access to Land

Clean Water

Land Stewardship

Community Connections

Success Stories

A Legacy of Land Conservation

How do land trusts work?

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