Protecting a Future Favourite: Kawartha Highlands South

Recently, we welcomed Kawartha Land Trust (KLT) into Wild Rock for a community open house about a big opportunity—and an even bigger challenge.

KLT is working to protect a remarkable 435-acre property directly adjacent to Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park. The land includes smooth granite outlooks, vernal pools, mature forests, and over a kilometre of untouched shoreline along the Mississauga River. It's home to 12 known species at risk, and if secured, would add 3–5 km of new hiking trails for our community.

This is one of the best nature protection opportunities KLT has identified in the past decade—and the deadline to raise the $1.6 million needed to purchase the land is just around the corner: July 16.

Why It Matters to Us

At Wild Rock and through the ComPassion Project, we believe in protecting the places we play in. Our community cares deeply about conservation and the long-term health of our ecosystems—but let’s be honest: what really sparks excitement is the promise of new places to explore. This project delivers on both. With new trails and pristine shoreline access, it offers a rare chance to expand the local backcountry experience while protecting a remarkable landscape.

As KLT shared at the event, “You can make a donation to protect the next community asset for the region — a place for hikers, birders, paddlers, photographers, and nature lovers to explore the land they love.”

What You Can Do

There are just over two weeks left to raise the remaining funds. As of June 20th, 25% of the 1.6 million goal has been raised—and an anonymous donor will match all new contributions up to $100,000. That means your gift will go twice as far to protect this incredible piece of land.

Whether or not you attended the event, you can make a difference:

• Learn more and donate directly at KLT’s campaign page

• Share the link with your friends, family, and outdoor groups

• Consider even a small donation—collective action is powerful

And if you’ve been planning to trade in outdoor gear through Wild Again, remember: you can donate your credit to the ComPassion Project. Until July 16, any Wild Again credits donated will go directly to this KLT initiative. It’s a great way to give back using gear you no longer need.

Thanks for being part of a community that shows up for the places we all love. Let's help protect a new place to explore—forever.