Thank you to all of the sponsors that help to make the Muskoka Stewardship Program possible!

Purpose

The purpose of the Muskoka Stewardship Program is to identify ecologically significant properties, develop and train a core of volunteers to undertake a landowner contact program, and work with landowners to protect the natural values of their property though volunteer stewardship agreements.

Muskoka enjoys a forested environment with good clean water. Although there are some areas in the urban centres that require renaturalization, the challenge facing MHF is to instill a strong environmental ethic and desire of private property owners to maintain large natural areas as development pressure increases. Protection of existing natural areas is essential to maintaining biodiversity, providing flexibility to address climate change, and ensuring essential ecosystem services, like clean water and fresh air, are available for future generations.

Mission

To maintain the ecological integrity of Muskoka’s private lands

Goals

1. To increase private land stewardship

2. To increase general public awareness of stewardship activities

Message

The Muskoka Stewardship Program is unique in that it encourages neighbours to help neighbours and empowers local volunteers to engage in their community. Learn More

Become a Master Steward

Master Stewards are the heart of MHF’s key stewardship program for private property owners. Master Stewards work with landowners to protect and enhance the natural values of their property. Learn More

Request a Property Visit from a Master Steward

Visits are confidential, voluntary, and non-regulatory. Contact us to become a participant in the program.

Recognition Initiatives

Participants in the Muskoka Stewardship Program will receive the Stewardship Pledge as well as the Gatepost Sign. Learn More

Resources

A library of Muskoka-specific information on wetlands, upland forests, wildlife, forestry and related environmental stewardship topics is available at the Muskoka Heritage Foundation office. Drop by and see us! Also, check out the ‘Stewardship Resources’ section of the blog for links to many more interesting and helpful sites and documents. If participants request more technical information, they will be referred to the appropriate professional.