At the outset of 2023, we’ve spent some time reflecting on our accomplishments and wins for nature throughout 2022. We could not have done it without you – our members, supporters, partners and funders. Your support makes everything we do for nature possible.
We asked a few of our staff members what they’re most proud of. Here’s what they had to say:
“Our impact on species at risk conservation. One example is our work on Pelee Island. Blue racer conservation was at a standstill since the 1990s. By collaborating with amazing partners and getting the local community involved, we’ve started restoring rare alvar habitat and increasing our knowledge about this endangered snake.” –Smera Sukumar, Conservation Science and Stewardship Director
“Our collaboration with diverse groups and incorporating more worldviews into our work. Addressing conservation issues will require collective problem-solving and perspectives from all walks of life on this planet.” –Brittney Vezina, Conservation Projects Coordinator
“Our Youth Council and the leadership they have shown organizing local conservation initiatives, leading workshops, hosting an annual Youth Summit and engaging in environmental advocacy. They have made a difference and they make me hopeful for the future.” – Anne Bell, Director of Conservation and Education
“Our carbon storage assessment work – being able to contribute to the campaign to protect over 1 million hectares of wetlands and forests in northern Ontario is extremely fulfilling.” – Graeme Smith, GIS Administrative Coordinator
“Collaborating with Nature Network groups on the third Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas survey trips. Data from this important five-year project will guide environmental policies and conservation strategies for years to come.” – Kristen Setala, Community Science Assistant
“Ontario Nature’s contribution to the Canadian Protected and Conserved Areas Database. This year we submitted info about thousands of hectares and added valuable near-urban nature protected lands. – Jenna Kip, Protected Places Assessment Coordinator
“The restoration and planting that we’ve undertaken at our Sydenham River Nature Reserve. The planting event was a great way to interact with members, donors and naturalists.” – Alyssa Stephens, Nature Reserve Technician
Volunteers planted 26 varieties of native trees and shrubs at our Sydenham River Nature Reserve
”Supporting Nature Network groups to do their good work in their local areas. I’m also very proud of the work Ontario Nature is doing to protect wetlands.” – Lesley Rudy, Nature Network Organizer
Thank you for standing with again this year and making it possible for us to do the work that we are so proud of – protecting Ontario’s wild species and wild spaces. Read more about our work in our 2022 Gratitude Report!
Please consider making a gift to support our work to protect wild species and spaces through 2023. Stay connected with us via social media! If you’re not already doing so, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Lisa joined Ontario Nature in February 2022. Her love of the outdoors was developed early in life while growing up on a farm in southwestern Ontario. She has a degree in Business from Wilfrid Laurier University and has worked in the non-profit sector for over 15 years. She enjoys sports (especially baseball and basketball!), reading and exploring the great outdoors.
