In a little over a decade, the Hamilton-Halton Watershed Stewardship Program has contacted over 3,500 private landowners of significant natural areas in the Hamilton and Halton watersheds. The goal of the program is to highlight the important role individual landowners can play in the conservation of natural areas, creeks and streams, through private stewardship. The program publicly recognize the efforts and contributions that private landowners make to protect and enhance their property and encourage them to continue to act as stewards of their land. The program has become an essential resource for Hamilton and Halton residents. The staff provide practical advice and possibly financial assistance for landowners who want to know what they can do to create a clean, healthy and attractive environment on their own property.  Landowners are provided with the tools they need to become responsible and caring stewards of the land. A good steward has respect for the natural ecosystems and responsibly passes on the land in its natural state for the enjoyment of future generations.  

This program is sustained by the interest and involvement of local citizens. The staff extend their thanks for the dedication and support of local landowners who have made efforts to protect and improve the natural areas of Hamilton and Halton. Over 390 local landowners have made verbal stewardship agreements that protect significant natural area and streamside habitat in their watersheds. In addition over 400 people have taken further steps by seeking out information or engaging in various rehabilitation projects on their property.  These projects have ranged from habitat improvement to water quality improvements such as decommissioning abandoned water wells and fencing livestock from streams.  Over 50,000 trees have been planted. The actions of these exemplary landowners benefit each and every one of us living within Hamilton and Halton.  Collectively, private lands hold the majority of natural areas in Hamilton and Halton.  Each small piece of land and each individual action contributes to the health of the entire landscape. 

If you live in the watersheds of Hamilton or Halton Conservation Authorities, own a natural area or creek, and would like a visit from one of the Watershed Stewardship Technicians to learn more about what you can do to enhance the health of your natural area or creek, please call  905-336-1158 extension 263 or 905-525-2181 extension 165 or 195.