Conservation Trust

On April 22, 2025 (Earth Day), Mayor Alex Nuttall signed an executive order directing City staff to report to General Committee on the creation of a Conservation Trust to protect lands in the area of Little like and other environmentally sensitive areas in and around Barrie including a framework, budget and authority to be functioning by 2026.

This executive order signals a significant commitment to conservation and the protection of Barrie's green spaces for future generations. The protected land will provide residents with more opportunities to connect with nature and reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship.

“By taking this step, we’re ensuring that our city grows with nature in mind, not at its expense." "By creating a conservation trust, we’re making a long-term, concrete commitment to the future of our natural environment, ensuring these lands remain undeveloped for future generations to enjoy.”
Mayor Alex Nuttall

City staff have been instructed to identify and prioritize lands for long-term protection, and to report back with exact locations and designations of the protected lands.

The Conservation Trust will act as an independent board and ensure these lands will be environmentally protected for perpetuity. The members of the Trust will include Mayor Nuttall, Deputy Mayor Thomson, Councillor Kungl, Councillor Nigussie and Councillor Harvey. City staff have also been directed to explore the inclusion of the Mayor of Springwater and members of the public on the board.

The City wants to hear from the public on what lands they would like to be included in the Conservation Trust, such as Ardagh Bluffs, Sunnidale forest, etc.

The following lands won't be eligible for the Conservation Trust:

- an active park

- land that is not owned by the City