Lands announced for local conservation board

Barrie is moving ahead with plans to create a municipal conservation board and has identified a list of natural areas it intends to protect under the initiative.

Mayor Alex Nuttall announced the proposal at The Gables Park in the city’s south end, outlining both the lands included and the framework for long-term stewardship.

The areas identified for protection include Little Lake, Milligan’s Pond, Sunnidale Park Natural Area, Riverwood Ravine, The Gables Park, Bear Creek wetlands, Lovers Creek Ravine, Lackie’s Bush, North Shore Trail, Ardagh Bluffs, Sandy Hollow Ravine, Hewitt’s Creek Ravine and Allandale Station Park.

City staff have been directed to bring forward a bylaw within 30 days to formally establish a municipal services board. The proposed independent body would be responsible for setting a long-term vision, recommending additional lands for inclusion and ensuring conservation-focused public access.

Staff will develop terms of reference and a governance structure ahead of formal appointments once the next council term begins in November.

Nuttall said preserving the selected lands will ensure future generations can continue to enjoy them.

“This is about taking a structured, long-term approach to protecting the natural assets that define our community,” Nuttall said.

“By establishing a dedicated board, we are ensuring these lands are preserved, responsibly managed and protected for future generations.”

It is expected that the board will include up to five councillors, the mayor of Springwater or a designate, and citizen representatives. It would also pursue recognition under the 30×30 conservation framework, which aims to protect 30 per cent of lands and waters by 2030.

The proposal follows Nuttall’s April 2025 announcement of a municipal conservation trust and public call for suggested protected areas. It is also linked to agreements with the Township of Springwater and the Barrie-Oro-Medonte-Springwater Boundary Adjustment Act, 2025, which received royal assent last December.

The plan includes a proposed five-year trail and crossing implementation program, with $20,000 in annual funding identified in the city’s 2027–2036 capital plan.

Springwater Mayor Jennifer Coughlin said the conservation trust supports responsible growth and collaboration between Barrie and Springwater.

“The inclusion of these lands in the conservation trust reflects a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, responsible growth and regional collaboration,” she said.