What is Stewardship?

Simply put, it means to take good care of something. So private land stewardship refers to taking good care of the land while we use it. This does not necessarily mean absolute preservation nor does it leave room for unbridled development. Rather it means to have consideration for the land and to use it wisely. This is conservation. Landowners in Muskoka are encouraged to affirm their stewardship by joining the Muskoka Stewardship Award Program.

What is the Stewardship Award?

The Stewardship Award Program recognizes voluntary protection of Muskoka’s natural heritage by private owners, businesses and public properties. The award acknowledges protection in the past but more importantly represents a voluntary commitment on the part of the landowner to safeguard their property for the future.

Does acceptance of the award involve legal restrictions or curtail activities on my property?

No. The agreement is voluntary; its strength lies in the commitment of the landowner to protect the natural features of their property to the best of their ability. Any current or future use of the property, such as hunting or firewood removal, will not be affected by joining the Award Program. Our program staff can assist you with information on wildlife habitat enhancement and forest management techniques.

Are there financial advantages?

Participation involves no payment or receipt of funds. The Muskoka Stewardship Program receives funding from a variety of private and public sources and is operated for the benefit of our Muskoka Stewards. The Muskoka Heritage Foundation is a charitable, non-government organization and gratefully accepts donations but there is no charge for joining the Award Program.

Is the Muskoka Heritage Foundation a lobby group? Will the Foundation presume to speak on my behalf?

No. The Muskoka Heritage Foundation is strictly apolitical and non-partisan.

Sounds great! But what you describe as stewardship I have practiced for years. Why should I get involved?

The environment is important to everyone. Spaces and species are threatened, even in Muskoka. While the government can protect representative areas in parks, the very people who own them can best protect other natural areas. The Muskoka Heritage Foundation believes that private landowners can play an integral part in natural heritage protection. By joining the Muskoka Stewardship Award Program you can demonstrate the effectiveness of private efforts and confirm that individuals can make a difference.