Common loon © Missy Mandel
About
Community involvement defines Ontario Nature’s character and approach. With our member groups and individual members, we do impactful conservation work across Ontario building a natural legacy for future generations.
The Ontario Nature Conservation Awards recognize excellence by honouring the work of individuals, groups, government agencies and corporations to protect nature in Ontario.
Monarch butterfly © James Wheeler
Recipients for 2025
Ontario Nature proudly honoured nine outstanding recipients at its 2025 Conservation Awards ceremony held on December 10, 2025 at Miller Lash House. These awards recognize individuals, youth, groups, organizations and municipalities whose tireless efforts protect Ontario’s wild species and spaces while inspiring others.
Common loons © Mark Peck
Media and Conservation Award
This award is presented to a nominee who engages in effective communication on one or more conservation issues through the media.
In The Hills Magazine has been a trusted voice in Ontario’s Headwaters Region for more than three decades, publishing deeply researched stories on conservation and land-use issues. From critiques of Highway 413 to investigations into aggregate extraction, the magazine has shaped public dialogue and environmental policy.
In The Hills
Corporate Award
This award is given to an organization that has demonstrated outstanding action for protecting the natural environment.
Toronto Nature Stewards has transformed ravines across the city through ecological restoration. In 2024 alone, volunteers contributed more than 12,400 hours, planting thousands of native species and removing invasive plants.
Toronto Nature Stewards
Youth Leadership Award
This award is given to a nominee who demonstrated strong environmental leadership in Ontario resulting in notable contributions to environmental protection at a local scale.
Monarch Butterfly Eclipse Project is led by five high school students from Oakville who creatively linked a solar eclipse to Monarch conservation, raising $75,000 for habitat protection and education. Their leadership earned national recognition.
Monarch Butterfly Eclipse Project
Lee Symmes Municipal Award
This award is presented to nominees who exhibit exceptional leadership and achievement in planning or implementing programs that protect and regenerate the natural environment.
City of Markham set a provincial benchmark with its Natural Heritage and Natural Assets studies, integrating ecosystem services into municipal planning. These initiatives enhance biodiversity, climate resilience and community engagement.
City of Markham
Steve Hounsell Greenway Award
This award is given to a group or individual working to preserve a core area or corridor of natural habitat.
Citizens for Marshland Conservation secured Provincially Significant Wetland status for McLennan Marsh, protecting critical habitat for species at risk. Their advocacy and scientific rigor exemplify the power of volunteer-driven conservation.
Citizens for Marshland Conservation
Education Award
This award is given to a nominee who successfully helps people understand the natural world, so they become enthusiastic supporters of conservation and environmental protection.
Sean McCammon has inspired more than 100,000 students through immersive outdoor learning during his 25-year career as an educator. His innovative programs and creative teaching methods foster a lifelong connection to nature.
Sean McCammon
Natural History Award
This award is given to a nominee who has achieved a significant goal related to natural history or conservation biology.
Dr. Douglas C. Tozer has led large-scale wetland monitoring programs as Director of Waterbirds and Wetlands at Birds Canada, publishing influential research that shapes restoration strategies and policy across the Great Lakes region.
Dr. Douglas C. Tozer
Public Service Award
This award is given to a nominee who has shown distinguished public service that has resulted in an exceptional environmental achievement.
Land Over Landings celebrated a historic victory in 2025 when the federal government cancelled plans for an airport on 18,600 acres of farmland after five decades of advocacy. Their vision for a regional food hub highlights the link between conservation and food security.
Land Over Landings signage © Alexis Edghill Whalen
Conservation Leadership Award
This award is presented to a nominee who has made an outstanding contribution to the protection of wild species and wild spaces in Ontario.
Miptoon, a respected knowledge holder from Neyaashiinigmiing, has dedicated more than 35 years to advancing Indigenous-led conservation and mentoring youth through land-based education rooted in Anishinaabe traditions.
Miptoon
These champions remind us that protecting nature is a shared responsibility. Their work ensures a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
Contact
If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Martell at lisam@ontarionature.org.
Ontario Nature is committed to equity, diversity, inclusivity and accessibility.
Lost Bay Nature Reserve