mcgowan lake turtle sanctuary protected!

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1 Spring 2013 mcgowan lake turtle sanctuary protected! This is Kelly, one of the Blanding s turtles who nest on McGowan Lake. Photo: Jeffie McNeil A group of highly endangered turtles in Nova Scotia has a 66 acre-sized reason to celebrate this New Year. Thanks to their many friends all across the province, one of the most critical nesting sites for endangered turtles in Nova Scotia, is now protected, forever. The McGowan Lake property, in southwest Nova Scotia, encompassing 15 islands and a forested peninsula, includes over five and a half kilometers of undeveloped lakeshore and ideal turtle habitat. Generations of Blanding s turtles, including Squirt, Lumpy, Smoothy, Lucy, Dilly, Anya, Muldora, Kelly, and Pat, have raised their families on this tranquil lakeshore. The Blanding s turtle, one of the longest-lived and slowest maturing freshwater turtles in Canada is, unfortunately, a turtle in trouble. With less than 1% of hatchlings surviving, and expanding cottage development and roads in the areas where these turtles live, Blanding s turtles are struggling to survive. As a result, they are listed on both the Canadian and Nova Scotian endangered species lists. Within Nova Scotia, they are only found in one small area and there are likely only about 350 adult turtles remaining. Like the other remaining turtle habitats in the province, the McGowan Lake property was at risk because of its potential for cottage development. After many years of outreach, education and negotiations to try to secure protection for this high priority site, a window of opportunity suddenly opened. The Nature Trust secured a time-limited option to purchase the property. On November 30, the Nature Trust launched a public appeal to help save this irreplaceable refuge for turtles. With just over a month to raise the necessary funds, the response was overwhelming. Over 300 (Continued on page 2) in this issue: P1 P4 P5 P7 P8 P9 McGowan Lake Turtle Sanctuary Troop Island Protected Conservation Award Acadia and the Nature Trust Blaze New Trails in Land Conservation Gillfillan Lake Nature Sanctuary John Forbes Thompson Passes on his Gentle Stewardship P10 Cross-Border Conservation P12 MacKenzie Cove P13 Mabou Highlands P14 New Bird s Eye View Program P15 New Land Conservation Tool in NS P15 Conservation Partnership with the Province P24 Expedition for the Earth P30 Chronicle Herald Donates to Help Save the McGowan Lake Sanctuary... and more! protecting tomorrow today 1

2 conservation (Continued from page 1) individuals, young and old, from across Nova Scotia and beyond, donated to help ensure the turtles had a home for the holidays, making this campaign one of the most successful in the Nature Trust s history. Many chose to symbolically adopt a turtle for friends and loved ones as a holiday gift, with over 150 people supporting the McGowan Lake turtles this way. The Chronicle Herald, recognizing the importance of this area and the species that depend on it, made a generous $19,500 donation to the cause. We are pleased to help the Nova Scotia Nature Trust acquire the McGowan Lake property at this critical time. With only weeks left to secure the land for the Blanding s turtle sanctuary, we felt the funds from our Go Green Co-op initiative would be a perfect way to support our local environment, and guarantee a safe future for the turtles, says Mark Lever, President and CEO of The Chronicle Herald. Another community-minded friend of nature stepped forward when the Nature Trust was just shy of securing the necessary funds at the campaign deadline. TD Bank Group generously donated the critical closing gift of $5,000. TD has been a proud supporter of the Nova Scotia Nature Trust for many years so when we heard their urgent appeal to help save the McGowan Lake Turtle Sanctuary, we had to act, said Brian Gervais, Senior Vice President, Atlantic Region, TD Bank Group. Through this and other campaigns, the Nature Trust is playing a critical role in preserving habitats for endangered species across the province. Cristi Frittaion, conservation coordinator with the Nature Trust, said the support was overwhelming. It is heartwarming to know that so many people care so much about the future of this endangered species. Lumpy and Squirt s story touched a lot of people. Now, their habitat will remain wild Beautiful McGowan Lake! for future generations of Blanding s turtles and their families. Cristi noted that it was particularly encouraging to see the corporate community making both the environment and community giving such a priority and setting a positive example for others to follow. Other major campaign supporters include Environment Canada s Habitat Stewardship Program, Ascenta, AVEDA, Imperial Oil Foundation and Scotiabank. The Nature Trust extends its appreciation to the conservation-minded owner of the property, Hannelore Borgmann, who, with her late husband Peter, developed a deep appreciation for the turtles and wanted to see them protected, forever. The conservation achievement has been widely celebrated in the scientific, research and wildlife conservation communities. Acadia University researchers, under the supervision of Dr. Tom Herman and Dr. Steve Mockford, have been leading the way in Blanding s turtle research and recovery efforts since This is a fantastic achievement, said Dr. Herman. The McGowan Lake property is truly one of the most important nesting sites for Blanding s turtles in Nova Scotia. He added, Protecting these wetlands, shorelines, and islands as Nature Trust conservation lands means protecting the imperilled Blanding s, their sensitive nests, and their vulnerable hatchlings now and forever. This endangered species success story was only possible because of incredible public support. On behalf of Squirt and Lumpy and everyone at the Nature Trust, our deepest thanks. For those still wishing to be a part of the McGowan Lake success story, donations are welcome and will support a stewardship endowment fund, providing critical funds to safeguard and steward the McGowan Lake Turtle Sanctuary, in perpetuity. 2 the nova scotia nature trust

3 conservation nature trust honoured by the nova scotia tourism industry The Nature Trust was presented with the 2012 Parks Canada Sustainable Tourism Award at the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia s (TIANS) Gala Dinner in late November. The award recognized our work protecting and stewarding the unique natural areas so important to our province. TIANS also acknowledged the Nature Trust for our role in protecting our natural heritage, important both to the tourism industry and to the Nova Scotian way of life. The Parks Canada Sustainable Tourism Award was established to recognize a demonstrated commitment to excellence, to encourage appreciation and respect for our natural, cultural, and aesthetic heritage, to promote sustainable development and to foster a greater public awareness of the economic, social, cultural, and environmental significance of tourism. In recognizing the Nature Trust for the 2012 award, TIANS considered both the increasing urgency of land conservation and the admirable pace and scale of conservation achievement by the Nature Trust. The Nature Trust is honoured that TIANS recognizes our contribution to protecting Nova Scotia s most special places, and hopes this recognition helps to build momentum and public support for land conservation. Linda Frank, Field Unit Superintendent, Parks Canada with Nature Trust President Corey Miller. message from the executive director In this issue we are celebrating a banner year for conservation. A record nine new conservation lands are now protected, forever, bringing the Nature Trust s conservation network to 55 protected areas. Over seven thousand acres of coastal wilderness, critical freshwater habitats, old-growth forests, and habitat for species at risk have been protected, safeguarding not only our most unique and imperiled natural areas, but preserving irreplaceable opportunities for people to experience and explore nature first-hand. The public outpouring of support for our conservation campaigns has been heartwarming, encouraging and tremendously appreciated. We achieved yet another ground-breaking conservation first in Canada, with the signing of the Bon Portage Island easement with Acadia University, marking the first university-owned lands protected in perpetuity as conservation lands. We hope other institutions across the country are inspired to take action to permanently protect the ecological gems in their care. In keeping with our promise to Nova Scotians to safeguard the lands entrusted to our care, forever, we have continued to bring even greater scientific expertise and tremendous community engagement to help us in stewarding our growing protected areas network. Record attendance at over 20 community events, guided hikes and paddling adventures has been inspiring. Our new Bird s Eye view program has taken full flight! Enthusiastic birding volunteers are helping to gather critical information to help us in better protecting Nova Scotia s birds. In October we celebrated Nova Scotia s freshwater legacy at yet another successful dinner and auction, with special guests Silver Donald Cameron andtanya Davis, and a room full of enthusiastic friends and supporters. Our inaugural Expedition for the Earth to Patagonia Chile was a resounding success with 13 intrepid adventures going to the ends of the earth for conservation in Nova Scotia! We hope you enjoy reading these wonderful conservation success stories all possible thanks to the generosity and dedication of you, our friends and supporters. Bonnie Sutherland Photo: Chris Pepper protecting tomorrow today 3

4 conservation theodore tugboat: pulling for the coast Kids and parents know Theodore from the well-loved CBC television series and storybooks. Many also know his friendly smiling face as one of the familiar landmarks in Halifax Harbour. Theodore is known as a compassionate and caring soul, with a deep connection to the sea and to our coastline. When he heard about the Nature Trust s campaign to protect a coastal island right near his home in Halifax Harbour, Theodore was excited to do what he could to help out. Peter Murphy, Theodore s friend and employer (with Murphy s the Cable Wharf), contacted the Nature Trust, and we were delighted to hear about their interest in the campaign. Theodore and Peter, and friends, decided to head out for a tour around Troop Island, much to the delight of local onlookers in St. Margaret s Bay. Theodore and Murphy s the Cable Wharf also made a donation to the campaign. Photo: Bob Guscott It s not every day we get calls from such famous and celebrated icons as Theodore Tugboat! the Nature Trust s Bonnie Sutherland noted. It s wonderful that Theodore wants to help protect Troop Island, and to spread the word about how important it is to protect and preserve Nova Scotia s very special coastal legacy, before it s too late. And Theodore inspired the campaign s youngest Troopers, Nathaniel and Phoebe McLaren, who donated all the money in their pockets to help Theodore Tugboat save the island! Theodore was awarded the title of honorary captain of the Troop Island Campaign: I m pulling for coastal conservation, and I hope that by showing my support I might encourage other Nova Scotians to take action to save our coastal legacy too! troop island protected, forever By Monica Graham A 29 acre, seldom-trod island with centuries-old maples, massive yellow birches and towering spruce; a freshwater pond and salt marsh, sandy beaches and abundant birdlife; all ringed by the crystal water of a sheltered bay It s not paradise: it s Troop Island in St. Margaret s Bay, west of Halifax. Spearheaded by the St. Margaret s Bay Stewardship Association, in partnership with the Nature Trust, a joint conservation campaign was successful in acquiring almost 28 acres of Troop Island from an Ontario land developer. One acre remains with descendants of a conservationminded family that has held the property for generations. The whole island will now remain in its untouched, natural state. 4 the nova scotia nature trust

5 conservation The previous owner, who holds property world-wide, bought the island in It was subdivided in 2004 and went on the market five years later, said Ella McQuinn, a prime mover behind the purchase. The owner refused to sell the island to the Nature Trust at a fair price, and when no offers came forward by 2012, the owner got a permit from Halifax Regional Municipality develop the island, lot by lot. Suddenly, the three-year campaign to preserve the island became urgent. Alarm bells went off, said McQuinn, a long-time volunteer in the quest to preserve some 30 islands in the bay. Two weeks later we made the offer, with a short closing date to show we meant business... Most people thought we d never accomplish it. The owner ultimately agreed to sell Troop Island for less than the asking price. Taxes, transaction fees, securement costs and a $100,000 stewardship fund increased the final expense to $820,000. With only four weeks to raise over $400,000 needed to meet the closing deadline, an emergency appeal was launched. The community came through brilliantly. Major contributions from Halifax Regional Municipality, Nova Scotia Environment, Mountain Equipment Co-op, private donors and community groups. As information about the campaign spread through media and a well-publicized tour of the bay by Theodore Tugboat (see story), more contributions came forward from near and far, making the eleventh hour rescue of the island possible. The campaign s popularity was partly due to the island s location near the city, said Nature Trust Coastal Conservation Coordinator, Peter Green. Coastal islands are highly threatened in many parts of Nova Scotia, he said. This one is in our own back yard. It s unique, it s 2012 nature trust conservation award st. margaret s bay stewardship association Nature Trust Conservation Coordinator Cristi Frittaion (far left) and Executive Director Bonnie Sutherland (far right) present Ella McQuinn and Scott Pelton (St. Margaret s Bay Stewardship Association) with our 2012 Conservation Award. The Nature Trust s Conservation Award was created to recognize individuals or organizations demonstrating outstanding dedication to and success in protecting Nova Scotia s natural legacy through land conservation, stewardship and education. In 2012, we presented the award to the individual and organization instrumental in the protection of Troop Island. The St. Margaret s Bay Stewardship Association (SMBSA): In keeping with their mandate of enhancing the quality of life in the Bay, the SMBSA have created a conservation vision for the Bay, and are working to protect both crown and private islands in the area. They successfully protected McCou s Island, and launched an innovative, community-based island stewardship program. They identified the most significant and threatened islands on the top of the list was Troop Island. Three years ago the SMBSA approached us about working together to protect Troop Island. So began a wonderful partnership, and a long and hard-fought campaign. Their volunteers worked tirelessly to find creative solutions to many roadblocks. They persevered, even when all hope seemed lost. Their passion was inspiring and infectious. While many shared in this success, one individual made a profound difference. Ella McQuinn has boundless energy, dedication, and passion for Troop Island, for the Bay, and for protecting our coastal legacy. She also has an incredible ability to engage and excite people about conservation, and an uncanny talent in turning their interest into conservation action. We were delighted to honour both Ella McQuinn and the SMBSA with the 2012 Nature Trust Conservation Award, for their incredible success on the Troop Island campaign, and for the inspiring model of community stewardship they have achieved. (Continued on page 6) protecting tomorrow today 5

6 conservation (Continued from page 5) accessible and enjoyed by so many people and it was almost lost. While the proximity to Halifax makes the site valuable for education and study, it also makes it vulnerable to over-use, Peter added. We have to be careful we don t love it to death, he said. The St. Margaret s Bay Stewardship Association will monitor activities on the island, where human interference will be limited. Access is only by boats with shallow draughts, and there is no public transport to the island. Troop is like no other island I have visited in Nova Scotia, said St. Margaret s Bay Stewardship Association board member Scott Pelton. There is a big old yellow birch that measures nearly 12 feet around and is estimated to be over 300 years old. SMBSA volunteers on Troop Island. Photo: Jennifer McKinnon No one has ever lived on the island, but a trace of a stone fence may date from a cow pasture in use about 100 years ago. Early owners selectively cut masts and flagpoles. Mostly, only Troop s sandy beaches have been used, by generations of St. Margaret s Bay residents as a picnic and swimming area. It was incredible to see how far and how fast word spread and support came pouring in. Campaign organizers even heard from decedents of the original Troupe family for whom the island was named, and they are thrilled that it will be protected for future generations. The St. Margaret s Bay Stewardship Association and the Nature Trust thank everyone for their very generous contributions of time and money which have helped to preserve a unique piece of Nova Scotia s coastal legacy. We hope this passion and energy will continue as we work together with the local community to steward this and other protected islands in the bay. We hope too, that the incredible momentum that built around this campaign will continue to build towards Photo: Jenny McKinnon protecting other coastal lands and islands in the bay and across the province, noted McQuinn. The Nature Trust extends our deepest appreciation to the St. Margaret s Bay Stewardship Association for being the heart and soul of this campaign. Opposit page: Dr. Tom Herman of Acadia University (left) and Nature Trust Executive Director Bonnie Sutherland (centre) signing the conservation easement protecting Bon Portage Island, witnessed by the The Honourable Sterling Belliveau, Minister of the Environment. 6 the nova scotia nature trust

7 conservation acadia and the nature trust blaze new trails in land conservation On September 8th, 2012, the Nature Trust marked an exciting, historical event for the very first time in Canada, land owned by a university became formally protected by legal agreement with a land trust. It was just one year earlier that Acadia University and the Nature Trust had first signed a ground-breaking conservation partnership agreement. At that time, both organizations committed to working together to permanently protect the most ecologically important lands owned by the university. Bon Portage Island was the first site announced, representing 340 acres of one of Nova Scotia s last, large undeveloped islands. Those who have visited the Bon Portage know that it is tremendously rich in diverse coastal habitats and wildlife species. The island is considered to be one of the most ecologically important islands in Nova Scotia and one of the province s highest priority migratory bird sanctuaries. It also provides significant value as Acadia University s premier ecological research and field education site and is very much a part of the local community s historical and cultural landscape. Over the course of the past year, the Nature Trust worked closely with Acadia students, staff and faculty (including many biologists and ecologists) as well as with funders, the Nova Scotia government and the local communities of Barrington, Shag Harbour and Woods Harbour with the goal of implementing a conservation easement. One of the steps taken was to prepare an in-depth baseline study and stewardship plan for the island in partnership with Acadia s Biology Department. The plan describes the present and past uses of the island, its ecological processes and the current state of habitats and species on the island. Building upon this work, the Nature Trust and Acadia are currently developing a long-term stewardship and management plan for Bon Portage to ensure its natural values are protected, forever. In addition to ongoing management by the Nature Trust s professional staff, the stewardship program will also include the active involvement of Acadia students and faculty in monitoring habitat, participating in stewardship activities and recruiting and training local property guardian volunteers. The success of the effort to protect Bon Portage was made official at the Woods Harbour Community Centre in September The Nature Trust featured Bon Portage Island displays from the NS Bird Society, the Chapel Hill Museum and Betty June Smith (daughter of former Bon Portage lighthouse keepers Evelyn and Morrill Richardson). The easement was signed and the Nature Trust celebrated the Bon Portage Island with many who have known and loved it their entire lives. The Nature Trust extends deep appreciation to all those who made this conservation success possible particularly Acadia University and the communities of Woods Harbour and Shag Harbour. Over 85 percent of Nova Scotia s coast is privately owned, and intense development pressure poses unprecedented risks to our coastal lands. In light of the growing vulnerability of islands like Bon Portage, this opportunity to protect such a critical part of our coastal legacy is invaluable. Thank you and congratulations to all those who helped make this historic success possible. Special thanks to Environment Canada s EcoAction Community Funding Program, Wildlife Habitat Canada and the Nova Scotia Habitat Conservation Fund. We particularly applaud Acadia for being an environmental pioneer among academic institutions in Canada. We hope Acadia s leadership will inspire other institutions to take action and do their own part to protect Canada s unique natural legacy. protecting tomorrow today 7

8 conservation Fall at Gillfillan Lake. Plymouth gentian a rare beauty. gillfillan lake nature sanctuary: the next pieces of the puzzle This past year, we marked another milestone in land conservation, with two new properties added to the Nature Trust s growing network of conservation lands protected for Atlantic coastal plain flora. This group of shoreline plants includes eleven species on Canada s endangered species list, found nowhere else in Canada. Five are globally rare. All have been a conservation priority for the Nature Trust. This story began back in 2004 on Gillfillan Lake, when we protected an undeveloped 40 acre lakeshore property home to nationally threatened Plymouth Gentian an oft photographed little beauty as well as the provincially sensitive Tubercled Orchid. You may remember this: the property was owned by Jeanne Lange and David Haskell both New York based actors, who treasured the lakeshore property as their summer escape for many years. They were delighted when they discovered that the property was not only special to them, but was also one of the last refuges in Canada for endangered flowers. Gillfillan Lake is high priority for the conservation of rare and endangered species yet cottage development and shoreline alterations continue to increasingly threaten the communities of plants in the area. The 2004 protection of the Gillfillan Lake Nature Sanctuary initiated a vision: to work towards a major land assembly on the lake, ensuring longer stretches of shoreline remain undisturbed. In 2007, we protected the adjacent piece to the Lange and Haskell property. This year brought two opportunities to build on our past achievements and further protect, forever, critical habitat for these plants. These are the next pieces of the puzzle of a protected land assembly that makes this area so unique from a conservation standpoint. Together, the sites total 67 acres and protect even more habitat for the threatened Plymouth Gentian. A 2011 survey of the shoreline found over 3,000 individual Plymouth Gentian plants on these two properties alone. They also contain the sensitive Tubercled Orchid. Other organizations share our goal of creating a large protected areas network along the shoreline of the lake. The government of Nova Scotia, the Nature Conservancy of Canada and the Tusket River Environmental Protection Association also own parcels along the shoreline. The government of Nova Scotia is reviewing the parcels they own, considering them for permanent protection under their 12% process. The Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute and the 8 the nova scotia nature trust

9 conservation The John Forbes Conservation Lands protect habitat for the nationally and provincially threatened redroot, and other species of Atlantic coastal plain flora. Atlantic Canada Conservation Data Centre are also working hard doing research in the area. Together, the proposed protected lands on the lake could protect over 2,500 acres, providing approximately 9 kilometres of important Gillfillan Lake shoreline for rare plants. And, if we consider the immediately adjacent lakes and Tusket River shoreline, the existing and proposed protected areas provide over 22 kilometres of shoreline a highly significant nature sanctuary! So, we celebrate, and we are sure our members all share our pride in this new conservation success supported by the Government of Canada through the Department of Environment, as well as the William P. Wharton Foundation, Ascenta Health, Aveda, and the Imperial Oil Charitable Foundation and, of course, made possible by the generosity of our supporters, conservation partners, and allies. john forbes thompson passes on his gentle stewardship By Donna D Amour By donating 85 acres of land on Cameron Lake to the Nature Trust, the late John Forbes Thompson, a retired land surveyor from South Brookfield, ensured the continued protection of the habitat of several at-risk species. It was obvious when I met Forbes that he had a deep-rooted love for the land, says Cristi Frittaion, Endangered Species Coordinator for the Nature Trust. I congratulated him for his vision and his leadership. It is really an honour that he entrusted to us a place that clearly was very special to him. The forested peninsula with two lots is bounded on the west by Cameron Lake and on the east by St. Mary s Bay. The lots are home to an abundance of Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora, one of the most endangered groups of plants in the country. The property also provides connectivity and access to an existing Nature Trust property. Together, the sites provide a large contiguous area in which species can move around, says Cristi. Cristi says most at-risk species are at risk in part because of the activities of humans. Building roads and cottages and altering shorelines for docks, boat launches or beaches also bring people, noise and pollution, causing species to be edged out. It is possible for humans to live harmoniously with these species with minimum impact on them. Forbes Thompson was certainly one of these people, she says. Forbes was a gentle steward of his land and loved to tell stories (Continued on page 10) protecting tomorrow today 9

10 conservation (Continued from page 9) about the species he saw there, from beaver to bear to the buttonbush, an Atlantic coastal plain plant that he noticed was doing well by his boat launch. Now that it is protected, the Nature Trust conservation team and volunteer property guardians will monitor the property annually and ensure its natural values are safeguarded. In addition, volunteer rare plant monitors will collect data each year. We will also continue to work with our partners at the Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute, Parks Canada and Acadia University on the conservation and recovery of at-risk species on this lake, says Cristi. This was the 50th property protected by the Nature Trust, according to conservation manager Dennis Garratt. Successes like these justify the over ten years of outreach to land owners and explaining the importance of their land to endangered species and the opportunities to protect nature on their land. The Nature Trust presented John Forbes Thompson with a Nature Trust Legacy Circle plaque, putting him in the company of other generous and visionary land donors such as Farley Mowat and Rudy Haase. The Nature Trust extends great appreciation to the late John Forbes Thompson for his generosity and commitment to conservation. Merloyd Lawrence, on her property in Aspy Bay. cross-border conservation pioneer donates new land legacy gift By Monica Graham Years ago, an eagle rose swiftly from a ravine, welcoming Merloyd Lawrence to Aspy Bay, at the northern tip of Cape Breton Island. The drama confirmed the American woman s hunch that a 85 acre Aspy Bay property she had come to see was indeed a wild and very special place, so Lawrence made sure that his land at North Harbour, near Dingwall, would stay wild forever. An experienced participant in US land trust conservation programs, she arranged a conservation easement through an innovative cross-border partnership between the Nature Trust and the American Friends of Canadian Land Trusts (American Friends). To ensure that her property would be protected from all foreseeable threats, she also purchased the mining rights to the property, so that mineral development could be restricted under the terms of the easement. We can enjoy it in a way that doesn t hurt the land, and it will stay undeveloped forever. I hope it will bring pleasure to people, said the Boston-area publisher, noting that her family reserved just one small lot for construction of a simple cabin. With more than two kilometres of ocean frontage, the property features mature forest, two barrier beaches, a barachois pond, a bog, and a marsh. Gypsum rock formations - including a naturally-formed spiral, sinkholes and steep cliffs - and vegetation unique to gypsum soils make the landscape unusual among Nova Scotia conservation lands. As part of the Aspy River estuary, the nutrient-rich water supports diverse marine life as well as migrating and resident birds, including breeding colonies of double-crested cormorants and spotted sandpipers. The scarcity of Crown land in the area, coupled with increasing residential construction, makes protecting this ecologically significant site even more important, said Nature Trust Executive Director Bonnie Sutherland, a founder of American Friends. Lawrence contacted the Nature Trust in 2007 to suggest protecting the North Harbour property, but it was 2010 before Canadian and American conservationists overcame punitive legal and tax issues surrounding such cross-border agreements. The North Harbour easement was finalized in December, 2012, the second Nova Scotia property Lawrence has protected in partnership with American Friends. 10 the nova scotia nature trust

11 conservation Lawrence pioneered cross-border conservation by donating the very first easement of that type in Canada, when she permanently protected a 110 acre ecologically-sensitive property at Little Annapolis Lake, near Kejimikujik, Nova Scotia, and we are thrilled and inspired by her continued commitment to conservation. Americans own hunting lodges, cottages, island retreats and mountain hideaways throughout Canada. The Nature Trust, American Friends and Lawrence have created a path for other conservationoriented Americans to also protect their special pieces of Canadian heritage, noted Sandra Tassel, American Friends Program Coordinator. The conservation movement all across Canada is advanced by Merloyd Lawrence s generous and visionary easement donations. Her commitment to protecting these very special places in Nova Scotia demonstrates how cross border partnerships can work for land trusts and landowners. For us, it s win-win, Lawrence said. The American Friends organization gives landowners like us the opportunity to be a small part of preserving Canada s unique natural legacy. And it was that legacy that drew us to Canada in the first place. Nova Scotians benefit from yet another important piece of our coastal legacy protected, forever. A few of the many spectacular vistas of this property. Like us on Facebook Search for Nova Scotia Nature Trust Fan Page on Facebook and like us today! Follow us on protecting tomorrow today 11

12 conservation a refuge from the modern world in mackenzie cove Dan Livingstone believes in the value of nature. He has spent many summers living on the coast of the Bras d Or Lake, on a 300 acre property that boasts a pristine and diverse shoreline of over seven kilometers. The land was originally my father s, Dan said. He loved it for its beauty, its neighbours and its memories. It was where my children learned to work, to forage and to play outdoors. We all found refuge there from the slings and arrows of the modern world. Now, thanks to Dan s generous conservation gift to the Nature Trust, these Cape Breton wild lands known as MacKenzie Cove will remain wild, as a coastal conservation refuge, and a legacy for generations to enjoy. As a working ecologist I ve seen too many beautiful places ruined by development, and I didn t want MacKenzie Cove to go the same way, Dan told us. An intact coastal property of this size is rare in Nova Scotia, especially along the popular Bras d Or Lake. With over 85% of the coast in private ownership, there are increasingly few undeveloped coastal lands in Nova Scotia. This newest protected area makes an irreplaceable contribution to conservation. Located on the coast of Canada s largest inland sea, the MacKenzie Cove property is made up of mixed coastal forest, gentle shoreline and diverse wetland habitat. This property includes bogs, fens, ponds, beaches, sheltered bays, as well as two large islands, both of which support mature Acadian hardwood forest. Coastal hardwood forests are exceptionally rare in Nova Scotia and this property has large, undisturbed stands of it. In addition, MacKenzie Cove is located within the North Mountain Ridge Natural Landscape, Landowner Dan Livingstone receiving a celebratory plaque, presented by Nature Trust s Conservation Manager, Dennis Garratt. Photo: Carabin Photography which is inadequately represented in Nova Scotia s provincial protected areas system. The Livingstone family is from the United States, but made Cape Breton their second home. This magnificent place has been protected through a partnership between the Nature Trust and the American Friends of Canadian Land Trusts, an organization which facilitates the permanent protection of Canadian properties owned by Americans. The land at MacKenzie Cove exemplifies both the breathtaking scenery of Bras d Or Lake that is beloved by visitors from around the world, and the fragile and rare coastal environments of this part of Cape Breton, remarked Sandra Tassel, Program Coordinator for American Friends. Dan s gift is one of many actions over the years that show his commitment to the permanent stewardship for this exceptional property. We are honored to be a partner in this important conservation legacy. On July 28, 2012, the Nature Trust celebrated this exciting and coastal conservation achievement with Dan and his wife, Pat Palmer, at the property. Dan shared stories about his father, his family history, and how they came to own the land. About 70 people attended the event, including local Cape Bretoners, summer residents and other landowners who have donated to the Trust. The day was very hot, sunny, and still the lake crystal clear and Dennis Garratt, the Nature Trust s conservation manager, who led a birding walk, said it seemed like the most gorgeous place you d ever been. 12 the nova scotia nature trust

13 conservation another piece of the mabou highlands, protected forever The Nature Trust, in partnership with the American Friends of Canadian Land Trusts, placed a conservation easement on a 190 acre property owned by Bob and Lee Ann Kinzer in the Mabou Highlands of Cape Breton. The property contributes to an ongoing land assembly project spearheaded by the Nature Trust in the large coastal wilderness at the core of the Mabou Highlands. The site contains some of the last, best, intact coastal areas and old growth forests in the province, and this land assembly project is contributing to the protection one of the last roadless coastal wilderness areas of its size remaining in Nova Scotia. Both Bob and Lee Ann are conservationminded and keen to keep their land forever wild while encouraging use of the popular trails system which runs through the mountainous lands along the coast between Inverness and Mabou. We are honored to be a partner in the Nature Trust s initiative to work with conservation-oriented private landowners such as the Kinzers to protect the area, and are grateful to the Kinzers for their special gift and for their leadership in cross-border land conservation, noted Sandra Tassel, Program Coordinator for American Friends. Looking forward, the Nature Trust is continuing to build on its success with negotiations taking place to protect more properties in the Mabou Highlands. With the addition of the Bob and Lee Ann Kinzer conservation easement, three conservation easements over four properties totaling 565 acres have been completed to date. An amazing addition to our protected lands in the iconic Mabou highlands. protecting tomorrow today 13

14 conservation new bird s eye view program takes flight The Nature Trust s Bird s Eye View program first took shape in November 2011 to fill an important information gap. The Nature Trust wanted to gather more data for the areas of the province that were most important for bird conservation, and we wanted to know more about the bird species that were frequenting the lands we have already protected. The Bird s Eye View program was developed to address both of these important needs and to further the Nature Trust s priority of involving volunteers in nature conservation. Behind the scenes, Bird s Eye View coordinator Karen McKendry began to forge relationships with leading bird conservation groups in Nova Scotia, including Bird Studies Canada. Through these relationships, the Nature Trust received valuable data on the locations of importance for songbirds, shorebirds and waterfowl. This data, combined with species at risk sighting data (including Nova Scotia s 20 bird species at risk), was fed into the Nature Trust s geographic information system (a digital map-based conservation planning tool) to help us make better informed decisions about the conservation value of the private lands under consideration for conservation. Ovenbird spotted at Meander River on World Migratory Bird Day The other important aspect of the Bird s Eye View program was the creation and launch of an engaging and meaningful citizen science volunteer program. We wanted to offer the opportunity for volunteers to help us collect bird sightings data and habitat descriptions, said Ms. McKendry. We developed a datasheet and log to help volunteers record data, and recruited keen birders and would-be birders to join our team. Over the spring and summer of 2012, the Nature Trust trained 29 new Bird s Eye View volunteers during four field-based Birds Eye View Training in July training sessions. These volunteers visited 16 of the Nature Trust s properties, completing and submitting data forms to both the Nature Trust and an international bird sighting website called ebird. In total, 95 species of birds have been spotted by Bird s Eye View volunteers to date! For some of these sites, this was the first time bird data had ever been gathered. The data will be used to better manage the lands for bird conservation. Expert birders will also be visiting properties that the Nature Trust is considering acquiring, to help guide conservation priorities. Bird s Eye View volunteers are providing an important bird identification service. A big thank you to our new cadre of trained, practiced and skilled volunteers, who are invaluable to the success of the program. 14 the nova scotia nature trust

15 new land conservation tool in nova scotia An exciting new land conservation tool has been created in Nova Scotia. The Community Easements Act, passed by the provincial government, will open the doors for Nova Scotians to protect a diversity of lands across the province for a wide range of purposes, from active farmlands and working forests to important archeological and scenic areas. Since 1994, the Conservation Easements Act has been an important legal tool for protecting some of the province s most important ecological areas. Groups like the Nature Trust, the Bras d Or Preservation Foundation and Kingsburg Coastal Conservancy have used conservation easements to protect, forever, treasured natural areas such as pristine coastal wilderness and critical habitat for endangered species. Groups like the Archeological Land Trust of Nova Scotia, the Annapolis Valley Farmland Trust and other local land trusts have the vision of protecting land for purposes beyond nature conservation. Until now, however, there was no appropriate legal tool available to make their vision and mandate possible. A community easement establishes a legally-enforceable agreement between a community group and a landowner. It sets out the purposes for which the land is protected, and the associated permitted and prohibited activities that are consistent with the easement purposes. The easement also sets out the responsibilities for both the landowner and organization holding the easement, in ensuring the easement s purposes are fulfilled. The easement runs with the land title, so it binds future owners, even if the land is sold or passed on to the next generation. An easement can be placed on all, or only part of the land, and different uses and restrictions can apply to specific zones within the property. A community easement, for example, could protect a working farm, allowing conservation for continued farming and residential use, management of a woodlot and maintenance of community walking trails on the property, while prohibiting subdivision and development of the prime agricultural lands. The new Act also allows for recreational-use easements, which are agreements that allow public use of or access across private land for recreation purposes as well as the creation and management of community recreation trails on private lands. The Nature Trust has played an active role in helping to foster and support a growing land trust movement in Nova Scotia. We are delighted to see one more barrier to the good work of land trusts removed, with a new tool created to foster the protection of even more of Nova Scotia s rich and diverse land legacy. We congratulate the Province on creating this new conservation tool, and recognize the enthusiastic land trusts who have been working hard to get the necessary legislation in place so they can start doing the important work they were set up to accomplish. the province and the nature trust renew conservation partnership The Nature Trust and the Province of Nova Scotia, long-time partners in land conservation, celebrated Earth Day 2012 with an inspiring conservation announcement. The Ministers of Environment and Natural Resources signed an agreement with the Nature Trust to renew the Lands and Legacies Conservation Partnership for three more years. The Lands and Legacies Conservation Partnership was first created in The previous five-year partnership resulted in 2880 acres of new protected areas and was valued at over $4.4 million. These new conservation lands complement existing Crown protected areas, and add special features such as endangered species and rare habitats to Nova Scotia s protected areas system. The Nature Trust also brings significant dollars to the partnership through the leveraging of funds from private donors, charitable and corporate foundations, and other levels of government. Between the Province and the Nature Trust, $1.2 million has been committed, over the next three years, to protect more outstanding natural areas for the benefit of future generations of Nova Scotians. The real benefits springing from this partnership are even greater. Through the partnership, the Nature Trust will build public awareness and support for conservation efforts, engage Nova Scotians in hands-on habitat conservation and stewardship, and protect even more places for Nova Scotians to pursue healthy, active lifestyles, and to experience first-hand our province s rich and beautiful natural heritage. Through this partnership, Nova Scotians are getting what they truly value a natural legacy they can pass on to their children. protecting tomorrow today 15

16 events wood s harbour trail walk It was a cold and windy day at the end of last February, but hearty folks from Wood s Harbour and surrounding area (even as far away as Shelburne!) came together to Take the Roof off Winter by walking the Wood s Harbour Trail. The Nature Trust joined the Barrington Municipal Recreation Department to host the annual event. After the walk, participants enjoyed hot chocolate and snacks and a talk about our exciting partnership with Acadia University to protect Bon Portage Island. For more information about our Bon Portage Island Campaign, please visit our Bon Portage page ( wolfville watershed winter hike For the past two years, hikers met at the Wolfville Watershed Nature Preserve to take part in hikes organized by the Nature Trust and Recreation Nova Scotia s Take The Roof off Winter program. In 2012, we enjoyed a great day of winter hiking, nature interpretation, and hot apple cider in a yurt! In 2013, we enjoyed an amazing moonlit hike, and warmed up with some hot chocolate. Thanks to everyone who made it out and special thanks to the Town of Wolfville, the hike leaders, and our nature experts for helping to make the day so much fun. Despite the cold and wind, a few community members joined us for a winter walk. Staff and volunteers Taking the Roof off Winter. Photo: Matthew Healy Nature Trust s Cristi, in her Take the Roof Off Winter swag. The Nature Trust s Alice, excited to hike the Wolfville Watershed. 16 the nova scotia nature trust

17 events aveda earth month 2012 a resounding success In April 2012, the Nature Trust partnered for a 6th year with Aveda to celebrate Earth month, a month-long campaign aimed at raising awareness and funds for the protection of clean water through land conservation. The campaign s cornerstone event was the Walk for Water. Eleven walks were hosted by salons and spas across the Atlantic Provinces. Staff from RBC branches across the region also participated in many of the walks, as RBC has a strong corporate commitment to protecting freshwater resources. In addition to the Walks for Water, the campaign also included dozens of events organized by salons and spas across the Atlantic Provinces, from fashion shows to princess and super hero parties, raising funds and awareness in creative ways. Aveda s 2012 Atlantic Canada Earth Month campaign has been tremendously successful, and Aveda s support over the past six years has helped the Nature Trust to protect fifteen conservation sites. For the past two years, a portion of the proceeds has also gone to the Nature Trust of New Brunswick and the Island Nature Trust, to aid in their important conservation work. The Nature Trust would like to thank Aveda, RBC and all participating salons for all of their hard work! We d especially like to thank Maritime Beauty Supply, who has spearheaded the hugely successful Earth Month campaign in Atlantic Canada for the past six years. Our Atlantic Canadian salons and spas, along with Maritime Beauty, raised over $52,000. RBC branches participating in Walk for Water events around the region raised nearly $9000, for a grand total of over $61,000 raised to help conserve freshwater through land conservation Top left: Young RBC Walk for Water participants. Top right: Oromocto Walk for Water. Middle: Halifax Walk for Water. Bottom: Middleton Walk for Water. in Atlantic Canada. Congratulations to Element 5 Spa in Saint John, who was the top fundraising salon! We are pleased to announce that we have been chosen for a 7th year to be the Atlantic Canadian Aveda Earth Month partner charity this year. Stay tuned to our website, Facebook and Twitter pages for more details about the 2013 Earth Month campaign. protecting tomorrow today 17

18 events world migratory bird day celebrated To celebrate World Migratory Bird Day 2012 on May 12th, Nature Trust staff led a guided bird walk on the Meander River Conservation Lands. Initiated in 2006, World Migratory Bird Day falls on the second weekend in May each year and is an international day for celebrating and raising awareness of migratory birds. People around the world take action and organise public events, all with the common goal of bringing attention to the importance of migratory birds. There are approximately 600 bird species in Canada and more than 90% of them are migratory. It is extremely important that we learn about and make an effort to protect these migratory birds and their habitats. This year s World Migratory Bird Day theme was Migratory birds and people together through time, emphasizing our cultural, economic and environmental connections with migratory birds throughout history. Humanity s fascination with migratory birds is evident in the symbolism of ancient cultures all over the world. Migratory birds have been made into national symbols, displayed in paintings, celebrated in dance, and even appear on our currency. They also play a vital environmental role by dispersing seeds and pollinating plants; scientists use these birds as indicators of biodiversity and climate change. During the walk, participants identified 32 bird species and submitted the data as part of the North American Migration Count. This data helps researchers understand migratory bird population levels and their distribution, while also contributing to the Nature Trust s Bird s Eye View program, a volunteer-based initiative aimed at learning more about the birds that use our conservation lands. Top: A great group of keen birders. Bottom: Yellow-bellied Sapsucker spotted at Meander River. Photo: Dennis Garratt 18 the nova scotia nature trust

19 largest team ever for our 3rd blue nose marathon By Jennifer Gerrits Every conservation project begins with a single acre and every journey (or marathon!) begins with a single step. We were fortunate enough to have conservation and a 42 km journey come together on May 20th when the Nova Scotia Nature Trust Wilderness Soles and the Special Mission for Turtles (SMFT) raced to save Nova Scotia s unique natural places during the ninth annual Blue Nose Marathon in downtown Halifax. Special congratulations go to the 45 members of the team (our biggest ever!) who braved the Blue Nose. Through the efforts of team members, donors and volunteers, the Nature Trust raised more than $14,700. Nature Trust Board Member David Thompson joined this year s team, and together with his partner Kate Foster and their daughters Portia and Maya, raised close to $2000 for the protection of endangered species habitat. Last year the Nature Trust was one of three Featured Charities in the Scotiabank Charity Challenge, providing us with extra visibility both on the course and during the GoodLife Fitness EXPO on May 18th and 19th, where eager Nature Trust volunteers greeted marathoners. The Nature Trust looks forward to celebrating the tenth annual Blue Nose Marathon in 2013 with an even larger team, of Nature Trust marathoners and those eager to take on this challenge for nature for the first time. Check out event photos on our Facebook page. events Our top kid fundraisers! Maya & Portia Foster Thompson. Photo: David Thompson Racing alongside the Wilderness Soles last year was the Special Mission for Turtles (SMFT) team formed by Travis Landry and many of his family members and friends. The SMFT ran to raise money specifically for the Nature s Trust conservation of Blanding s Turtle habitat in south-western Nova Scotia. This fundraising effort builds on Travis Landry s volunteer work with the Mersey- Tobeatic Research Institute and the work being done at Kejimkujik National Park and Historic Park. The Blue Nose Marathon offers a tremendous opportunity for the Nature Trust to share its work and goals of protecting Nova Scotia s wild lands and species. The 2012 event drew thousands of people to Halifax, with more than 12,000 people participating in the various races. Thinking about taking part in the 2013 Blue Nose Marathon? Consider joining the Wilderness Soles Raise funds to save nature and get fit at the same time! Run or walk the 5km, 10km, half or full marathon or encourage your kids to join the youth run. Visit for details Post-race celebration. protecting tomorrow today 19

20 events nature trust showcase, volunteer appreciation event and annual general meeting This yearly event is one we really appreciate, as it gives us the opportunity to look back at the previous year s successes and to thank, in person, many of the supporters and volunteers who make our work possible. Thanks very much to all who attended our annual showcase and volunteer appreciation event on June 28th. Conservation coordinator Cristi Frittaion & manager Dennis Garratt share our conservation success. We hope many of you will be able to join us this year! Board member David Thompson with Nature Trust Ambassador George Sutherland (right). See our next newsletter for more on our Ambassadors. Thanking three of our long-time science advisors. Nature Trust president, Corey Miller, welcomes landowners Bruce Blakemore (centre) and Hugh Jones (left) to the Nature Trust Legacy Circle. Stewardship coordinator, Alice Morgan, thanks some of our dedicated property guardians. 20 the nova scotia nature trust

21 events an abundance of birds identified at wolfville ridge By Emily Sangster On July 16th Nature Trust volunteers visited the Wolfville Ridge Conservation Lands guided by project coordinator Karen McKendry, as part of their training in identifying bird species for the Bird s Eye View Program. Thanking some of our new Birds Eye View volunteers. Considering that there are 433 species of birds in Nova Scotia, trying to identify all the bird species on our properties can seem like a daunting task. However, even simple tricks like using the habitat and time of year to narrow down the possibilities can help it all becomes much easier with practice. If you would like to get involved in this fascinating program please contact Alice at alice@nsnt.ca or Volunteer coordinator, Nicole Arsenault, thanks our dedicated Board of Directors. Some of our hard-working dinner volunteers. News birders, learning to use their binoculars. protecting tomorrow today 21

22 events shelter cove canoe trip On Saturday July 14th the Nature Trust and Canoe Kayak Nova Scotia spent the day paddling and hiking around the Shelter Cove conservation lands. The day was a great success. A big thank you to Dusan Soudek and Canoe Kayak NS for partnering with us to organize this event. Shelter Cove is an ideal location for canoeing and kayaking. We did more than just have fun - we cleaned up as well! rare plant monitors plant identification training Last July, new rare plant monitors received training, so that they could help us track rare Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora populations on our properties in southwest Nova Scotia. Many thanks to Parks Canada s Megan Crowley for lending her botanical expertise to this event! A great group! Thanks for making this such an amazing outing. New rare plant monitors. 22 the nova scotia nature trust

23 a south shore adventure By Cristi Frittaion The elusive threadleaved sundew. On August 11th and 12th, one of the only weekends of rain all summer, the Nature Trust s Karen McKendry and Cristi Frittaion led intrepid adventurers on guided hikes of the Jack and Darlene Stone Conservation Lands and adjacent government lands. The first day was a wet one, but we donned our rain gear and splashed along. We passed by old foundations from the property s previous life as a homestead and farm and treaded through an old plantation of white pine to the water s edge, where we were treated to the last of the summer s very early blossoms of several endangered flowers, including the Plymouth gentian and pink coreopsis. We also visited a newly discovered Maleberry shrub (the only documented location in Canada), which towered ten feet above us, and we visited a newly discovered population of endangered water penny-wort. This is only the third known population of penny-wort in all of Canada and it was exciting to see it in flower for the very first time. events The following day, despite the threat of thunderstorms and fog, we headed into the Baccaro bog to see the endangered thread-leaved sundew, a carnivorous beauty. After such a dry summer, it was an excellent time for a bog walk our feet barely got wet! Staff and volunteers from Bird Studies Canada met up with us at the Crow Neck Beach Conservation Lands, a conservation site protected in They then led a shorebird walk along the beach where we saw an adult and juvenile piping plover (hooray!) and other migratory shorebirds. After an hour the fog rolled in, and just as we drove away the heavens opened up and a great downpour ensued. It was a wonderful weekend the species were showy, the weather cooperated, and everyone who came out was an absolute trooper. See our Facebook photo albums for more. Hikers managing the wet conditions nicely! South shore adventurer. protecting tomorrow today 23

24 events expedition for the earth: seeing the world, saving nature in our own backyard The Nature Trust has launched an exciting new fundraising initiative, Expedition for the Earth, taking Nova Scotians to some of the planet s most spectacular natural areas, to help protect natural areas here at home in Nova Scotia. In keeping with the Nature Trust s mission of land conservation, the expeditions will take outdoor enthusiasts on educational adventures to some of the world s most fascinating parks and protected areas. At the same time, participants help to raise awareness and funds for the Nature Trust s important conservation work. Each participant commits to raising funds to protect wild places here in Nova Scotia. Unlike many fundraising climbs and marathons where much of the fundraising pays for participant travel and expenses, Expedition for the Earth participants pay their own way, so every dollar they raise goes directly towards saving land in Nova Scotia. The expeditions offer a refreshingly different way for people to support charity. Corey Miller, president of the Nature Trust, and the first to sign up for the inaugural Expedition noted that, Participants can experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and make a real impact on the environment by supporting a local cause they care about. The expeditions are a perfect combination of outdoor adventure with action to save even more land in Nova Scotia. The exciting new initiative was officially launched in June with the expedition s title sponsor, Steele Subaru, at the grand opening of the new Subaru dealership in Our team in Torres del Paine National Park. Photo: Deb Stover Halifax. Rob Steele, owner of Steele Auto Group said, We are pleased and proud to be title sponsor for this Expedition; the work of the Nature Trust is critical to the future of our province and we welcome the opportunity to assist in their efforts it s a perfect fit with the Subaru corporate spirit. For pictures, expedition dispatches and details about the trip, visit our facebook page and 24 the nova scotia nature trust

25 events the inaugural steele subaru expedition for the earth: patagonia 2013 Thirteen adventurous and communityminded souls from across Nova Scotia have completed the Nature Trust s inaugural Steele Subaru Expedition for the Earth. Months of training and preparation were rewarded with breath taking views, humbling wildlife encounters, and lots and lots of wind! The expedition took place in Pagaonia s world-famous Torres del Paine National Park, a UNESCO protected biosphere reserve on the southern-most tip of South America. They completed the renowned W Trek, considered one of the premier treks in the world The adventure began and ended in Punta Arenas, Chile, jumping off point for many of the most famous Antarctic and Patagonia explorations. Although very windy, the skies were mostly clear affording the group spectacular views of the stunning Towers of Blue Sky, the beautiful shores of Lake Nordenskjold, the immense mountains of Paine Grande and the green glacial waters of Pehoe Lake. They saw the Patagonian icecap, the largest non-polar ice in the world (the largest piece of ice outside of the Arctic and Antarctic Circles), an austral pygmy owl, magellanics (black woodpeckers), and condors soaring in the mountain drafts. The trekkers also discovered that the spectacular wilderness they explored was not only national park lands, but included extensive areas of private land, protected for conservation in a similar way to how the Nature Trust works with private landowners to protect land back in Nova Scotia. The participants were in good hands, Nature Trust president Corey Miller with Steele Subaru s Rob Steele, Florence Gray, Fred MacNeil, Dana Simonsen and Subaru Canada s Don Durst at the Expedition for the Earth Launch at the Steele Subaru Halifax grand opening. with the trip professionally guided by Berg Adventures International, one of the world s leading adventure travel and mountaineering companies. Committed to running ecologically sensitive, low-impact adventures that foster cultural and environmental awareness, Berg was a perfect fit for the Nature Trust s expedition. Berg s owner, Wally Berg, is appreciative the innovative nature and noble aspirations of this new Nature Trust initiative, The Expedition for the Earth is all about connecting the global and local environments, and the need to protect both, in a profound and exciting way. He was honoured to be part of the inaugural expedition. The expedition team was a diverse group, including 20-somethings and septuagenarians, first-time international tourists and experienced globe-trotters. Yet they shared a common passion for adventure and for the beautiful natural areas of Nova Scotia too. Laura Hussey-Bondt was drawn by the opportunity both to learn and to make a difference for the environment. The Nature Trust is doing really important conservation work here in the province. The Expedition gave me a wonderful opportunity to support that work, while also getting to experience the results of conservation efforts in a whole other part of the world. Asked why they went all the way to Patagonia for the cause she explained, Sometimes we don t appreciate what we have in our own backyard. Experiencing spectacular wild spaces in other parts of the world can help you to appreciate the equally spectacular wild spaces we have right here at home. This trip is a perfect opportunity to support and appreciate both! protecting tomorrow today 25

26 events Bob Melville, the expedition s youngster saw the adventure as A perfect way to celebrate my 75 happy years on planet earth! While at first he signed up more for the fun and adventure of it all, he noted, As I became aware of what the Nature Trust is doing, the people involved, and the importance of their work for the future of Nova Scotia, I became more and more interested in and enthusiastic about the cause. Before heading off on their adventure, expedition team members spent months raising funds to meet their pledge to build awareness and to raise at least $2500 each to support the Nature Trust s conservation work. They did everything from holding dinners and auctions, writing letters and online fundraising, to raffling their services, auctioning personal belongings, making donations from their own coffers, and doing media interview. While final funds are still rolling in, already the initiative has reached over $60,000! Congratulations to Henry Fuller, who raised over $15,000. Our greatest thanks to all our expedition participants, Berg Adventures International, and our major sponsor, Steele Subaru. Thanks as well for generous support from the Chronicle Herald, the Printer, Labatt, and the Trail Shop and to all of you who support our intrepid. Learn more about their adventure and see expedition photos at or visit our facebook page. Or join us and the expedition team at the post-expedition party in April. Join Us for the Patagonia After-Party and Fundraiser! Thanks to Steve Maly of the Trail Shop and the staff of Freeman s Little New York, for teaming up to organize this great celebration and fundraiser. Come for the music and Freeman s food, stay for our Expedition 2013 team s tales of adventure in Patagonia! When: April 6, 2013 Where: Freeman s Little New York, 6092 Quinpool Rd. Time and cost: TBA Watch our website and Facebook page for full details! Expedition for the Earth: Patagonia 2013 Team: Laura Hussey-Bondt, a young mother, employee of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and long-time support of environmental conservation. Earlene Busch, owner/operator of the eco-award-winning Chanterelle Country Inn and Cottages in Cape Breton. Henry Fuller, Cape Breton Boatyard owner-operator, and the Nature Trust s longest-serving Board member and long-time environmental champion. Bob Melville, a retired New Brunswick Business owner, now living in the Annapolis Valley. Corey Miller, President of Tirecraft Canada, and the Nature Trust s president, was the first to sign up for the expedition. Rene Scrutton, a school teacher with a strong interest in earth education, and long-time volunteer with the Nature Trust. Ted Scrutton, retired Coordinator of Outdoor Recreation, Physical Activity, Sport and Recreation for the Province, and active volunteer in many trails and recreation initiatives. Graham Steele, MLA and former Finance Minister. Deborah Stover, a retired operating room and emergency nurse, and a chronic volunteer with a wide range of charities from Halifax Regional Search & Rescue and Habitat for Humanity to the Tall Ships, Briar, Canada Games & the Nature Trust. Reynold Van Oord, a Clinical Therapist with Capital Health in Halifax. Gordon Hebb, a lawyer at the Nova Scotia Legislative; Mary Ellen Donovan, retired lawyer for Halifax Regional Municipality, and their son Andrew Hebb. Dreaming about your own bucket list adventure? Stay tuned for details on the next Expedition for the Earth. And fill in our Dreaming of Adventure survey and you could help decide on our next Expedition destination! 26 the nova scotia nature trust

27 events a wonderful celebration of our rivers, lakes and streams: 15th annual dinner and auction We wish to extend sincere thanks to all who joined us to celebrate Nova Scotia s precious freshwater legacy. Thanks as well to all our sponsors, auction donors, volunteers and special guests. The spoken word performance by Tanya Davis of her poem reflecting on the importance of water prompted a standing ovation. Silver Donald Cameron s key note key note address shed new light on salmon and the larger conservation lessons to be learned from salmon, and provided much food for thought and inspiration too. The dinner and auction raised over $60, for land conservation critical funding that will help us continue to protect our freshwater legacy. From left to right: Brad Burrell (Frischkorn Audiovisual), Deborah Carty (Michelin), Jamie Patterson (Lite 92.9), Bonnie Sutherland (Nature Trust), Colin O Neil (TD Friends of the Environment), Cathy Doig (TD), Andrew Boyne (TD Friends of the Environment) Tera-Lynn Parker (TD), Corey Miller (Nature Trust president), and Chris Beaton (TD). Poet Tanya Davis graced us with a poem. A Storm Petrel wood carving by Jim Edsall. Our guest speaker, Silver Donald Cameron Our hosts Jamie Patterson and Lisa Blackburn. protecting tomorrow today 27

28 events keji parks day myrtle s visit On Saturday July 21, the Nature Trust s Myrtle the Turtle joined her friends at the Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site of Canada for the Keji Storytelling Festival. They shared the story, The Hatchling s Journey: A Blanding s Turtle Story by Kristin Bieber Domm, which takes place in Keji. We were pleased to be part of the fun day, which featured the All Nations Drummers and a launch by Laurie Lacey of his book Mi kmaq Medicines. st. mary s river weekend of hikes. On the weekend of October 13 and 14, we co-hosted a weekend of hikes on the St. Mary s River, along with the Halifax Field Naturalists. The St. Mary s River is a beautiful and biologically diverse area, and the fall, with its display of colours, is an incredible time to visit. On Saturday we visited a Nature Trust property that is transitioning from old fields to floodplain forest. On Sunday we visited a Nature Trust property with mature floodplain forest in the morning, and in the afternoon, we hiked through more glorious forest with a focus on learning about mushrooms. Myrtle (left) with the Parks Canada beaver and another Blanding s turtle friend from Keji. Thanks to the Halifax Field Naturalists for co-organizing and hosting this event with us, and thanks to everyone who attended and made this such a special weekend. Join our e-list! Consider joining our e-list, and receive Landlines, our monthly e-bulletin. Receive regular updates about our events, outings and conservation news. Just nature@nsnt.ca to join. Our youngest St. Mary s River hiker. Measuring one of the huge old trees on the St. Mary s River. Photo: Alice Reed 28 the nova scotia nature trust

29 friends of the nature trust paddling to save nature: todd and sophie larsen On Friday June 8th, adventure seekers and MSc. students Todd and Sophie Larsen set out on a 150km, three-day paddle, raising funds for the Nature Trust. The couple travelled in a two-person kayak, paddling from Halifax harbour, up the Shubenacadie Canal system and through the centre of the province, eventually reaching their home in Truro. The energetic and inspiring couple had planned to do this paddle for several years, and decided now was a good time. While on their trip, which took them from Friday afternoon until Sunday evening, they saw many great reminders of how important it is to preserve the natural habitat of Nova Scotia. We were amazed at how seemingly remote parts of the route were, but we were never out of earshot of planes, trains, or automobiles! Definitely a good reason to protect natural areas from human impact, said Todd. One of their stunning stopping places. Photo: Todd and Sophie Larsen A hearty thanks to Todd and Sophie, for raising $1400 in support of land conservation in Nova Scotia. And thanks to East Coast Outfitters, who kindly supported Todd and Sophie s fundraising efforts by donating the kayak rental. On their way! Photo: Todd and Sophie Larsen Mark your calendars! Join us for our 16th Annual Dinner and Auction, celebrating Nova Scotia s treasured islands. At the world Trade and Convention Centre October 24th. For details watch protecting tomorrow today 29

30 friends of the nature trust chronicle herald donates $19,500 to help save the mcgowan lake sanctuary Just before Christmas, the Chronicle Herald made a generous donation of $19,500 to help the McGowan Lake Turtle Sanctuary. It was the largest gift to the campaign, and helped to ensure the protections of this extremely important Blanding s turtle nesting place. We re thrilled that the Chronicle Herald recognized the importance of this area and the species that depend on it and decided to contribute the funds from their Go Green Co-op initiative. Jennifer Punch of the Chronicle Herald presents the Nature Trust s Dennis Garratt with a donation in support of the McGowan Lake Turtle Sanctuary. This year, Ascenta continued their support of the Nature Trust, through the 1% for the Planet initiative. The Nature Trust thanks Ascenta, and commends them for their commitment to giving back to their community. Since 2009, Ascenta has given over $130,000 in support of the Nature Trust's conservation work in Nova Scotia. Photo: Irwin Barrett The Nature Trust extends sincere thanks to East Coast Mobile Medical Inc. for their generous multi-year commitment to protecting Nova Scotia s unique natural landscapes. 30 the nova scotia nature trust

31 celebratory gifts friends of the nature trust Between turtle adoptions, gifts of nature and other gifts honouring friends and family, this was a record-breaking year for celebratory gifts. We are honoured to be a part of your celebrations, and appreciate you helping to spread the word about our conservation efforts, through your creative charitable giving. Thank you! A.M. Powell Abby Turnbull; Peyton McKenna Ada and Ellie Adair and Sean Collins Adam and Marta Adam Holley Adelynn Austin Aidan dewolf Aimee Gromack and Chris Burbidge Ainslee MacLeod Alex Dalziel and Tina Casey Alex McQuinn Alex, Ryland and Isaac Neaves Alexa Kennedy Alyssa McKee Amanda Prosser Amber and Eric McCallum Andrea Gregory Andrew and Maydianne Andrew Blakeney and Carolyn Moir Andrew Janzen Andy Blackadar Angela Towle Anna Sipos and Doug Jacques Anne and Waldo Patton Anne Bastedo & Richard Lane Anthony Pherst and Shayd Lantz-MacKay Arran Spencer Audrey and Ken Fram Baby Hurlwich Barbara Harvey Beatrice Munroe Ben Guthrie Ben Stewart Benj and Fiona Benny Gillis Betty Lynn Cassis; Hughena and Gerry Boyd Beverly and Stuart McBride Bill and Pat Roy Bill Zimmerman BMO Harris Private Banking PA Team Bradley and Emma Bradley Spencer Bradley Woodworth Brendan Chard Brian and Phillip MacMillan Brooklyn Hirtle and Colton Chandler Bruce Johnson Candace Stevenson and Andrea Arbic Carlie Langille Carolyn McKee Catherine Hicks Cedric Hodgson Chad Carrington and Janic Rouleau Charles and Ann Thompson Cheryl Baxter Ching Lai Chris Milburn and Julie Curwin Christian and Kasper Christina Pasquet Cian & Keira Sutherland Cassidy Clare O Brien Cobequid Physiotherapy & Occ. Thrpy Dept Colleen Cameron; Beth Wolters Conor Scallion and Christine Wood Cora Craig and Tia Mortimore Darlene Stone Dave and Kimberly Butt David and Catherine Fieldsend David and Jennifer Kilburn David and Meaghan Dean Dougall Dennis Farquharson Diana Chard Diane and Susan Walsh Don Donna McKee Doris Sutherland Dorothee Newcombe Douglas and Marlene Mortimore Dr. Andrew McKee Dr. Bruce McKee Dr. Helen Bell and Mr. Ross Thompson Dr. Stephen Beauchamp E. H. Watson Ed Longard Eleanor Moore Ellen Chappell Emma Boardman Emma MacDonald Enya and James Erin Erin and Cadence Ewan Scallion Felix Robbins Field-Osmond Family Florence N. Lee Gagne Family Garland Nadeau Gavin George Fraser Glen Bannon Glenn Charlton Gordon and Carol Ward Gordon Brown Graham Williams Grandmother Wright Greg and Barb MacMillan Greg and Sarah Benjamin Gregor Wilson Heather, Sean, Alex and Jack Helen Bell Helmi Ansari Hendriks Henry Pelham Edwards Hilary Hilda and Nish Holly Hubley Howard and Debbie Windsor Ian Guppy & William Guppy Ian McKee Ian Urquhart Ian Whyte Imogen and Scott Isla and Lahrin Jack and Charlie Suiter Jack and Grace Hutto Jack and Nathan Forward Jackie Harmer Jacob Chard Jade James Laceby James McKee James Outhouse Jamie Burke and Karen Stentaford Jane and Colin Beaumont Jane Bigelow Janetta McCann Janson Family Jason Kilburn Jason McIntee Jay Simm Jayden and Hailey Barker Jayden Poulain Jeff Misiurski Jennifer and HendrikJennifer McKee Jessie Dougall Jessie Holley Jessie Tidswell Jill Boates Jill Pasquet Jillian Boates Joan and Sandy Joan Crouse Joanne Burns Joanne Jefferson protecting tomorrow today 31

32 friends of the nature trust Joanne McCormick Jodi Newcombe Joe Johanne McKee John and Audrey Hungerford John and Jacelyn John and Joann MacCallum John and Margaret Whittaker John Carling John Spencer Josh and Diana Holley Joshua McKee Joy, Magdalena, Michael and Craig Judy Day Julia Julian Verrier Jylian, James and Dawson Bartlett Karen Miner and Dan Kehler Karen O Hara Kas Stone Kat Kitching and Ben Sichel s marriage Kathryn Schleit Keith Irving Kelly and Rick Holley Ken and Brit MacMillan and kids Ken and Ina Beaver Keshav Parkash Kevin and Donna Guthrie MacMillan Kirk Newcombe Kyra and Mercedes Cuthbertson Lachlan Riehl Lauren and Emily Fieldsend Les etudiant(e)s du cours d Ecologie Marine - automne 2012 Lilah Ross Linda Drope and Al Johnson Linda Libbey Lindsay Quimby Lisa Napier Liz Allen Loreen and Gilbert Hubley Louis Reznick Luke Lyndsay Doyle Lynne Reeves and F. Mike Hart Madison Maiah and Kaleb Beaton Mallory Heim Margaret Herdman Margaret Moss Marguerite Taylor Marilyn Clapp Mark and Dar Hubley and Boo Marley Mary and Fred Farrell Mary Lou Mary Rogers Matthew and Andrea Harrington Matthew Herder Matthew McKee Matthew Queripel Michael Bradfield Michael Haverstock and Jen Roper Michael White Mike Dowd Mike Dowd Mike, Joanne and Anna Mi kmawey School Mme. O Leary Mme. Vanier Mya Myka Myles Gordon Nana Catherine Page Nye Nancy Dowd Nate Neil and Mary Kidston Nicholas Brown Nicholas McKee Nicholas Robar Nick and Alison Valentine Nicole and Anna Lindsay Mosher Nicole d Entremont Noah Guthrie Noah Rossi Norma Hood Nova Scotia Adventure Tourism Association Osmond Family Owen and Lily Owen MacPherson Pamela Brown Patricia Sixsmith Patti Fraser Paul Brodie Paul, Kathy, Kelli, Reid, and Brianne Pauline and Ron Josey Pauline Raven and Gerry Cudmore Peter and Cate Drage Peter and Cheina Hubley Peter and Erin Hickey Peter LeBlanc Phyllis Harlow Phyllis Hollett Pointer-Osmond family Rev. Alison Etter Rhonda Church Richard and Grace Beazley River Schofield Rob Newcombe Robert Dunphy Robin and Peggy Robyn Macfarlane Ron, Marg, Graham and Meredith Dafoe Rose and Isabelle Rose Marie Rose Spicer Ruby Longard Ruth and Bob Ruth Matthews and Eugene Lebwohl Ryan and Emma Murphy Ryan Yorke and Susan Wilcott Ryann and Cameron Fraser Sadie Robinson Sam and Thea Sam and Therese Samantha Aiton Sandra Cooke and Michael Collins Sara avmaat Sara, Rory and Henry Sarah Sarah and Jack Wile Sarah MacMillan Sarah Zanzuri Scott Scott Mullin Shae James Shauna Chandler Shea and Raine Willems Sheila Knight Sheila Stevenson and Stephen Archibald Shelley Would Shirley Dean Silas Simon Erland Simon McKee Sonia and Gerry Sonya and Lloyd Sophie Jensen Souhael Bouallagui and Danielle Andres Spencer,Christopher, Brandon and Tyler Powell Stephen Boos Steve and Ada Steve, Lisa, Eric and David Hubley Suzanne Killen Suzanne McKee Tanya and Derek Tara Day and Sebastian Schlosser Tara Lynn Taylor Harris The Simon Family The Sullivans Tim and Christine Tim Hill and Monica White Tom and Jean McCann Tom and Joan Jones Tom Herman Tracy Demmons and Uli Vom Hagen Trevor and Emily Swim Trevor and Marissa Trevor MacKay Tristan Smith and Janina Drozdowski Victoria Fraser Vivian White Wayne Ryder William and Sophie Culligan William David Paul Giuitta 32 the nova scotia nature trust

33 friends of the nature trust memorial gifts Aleah Lomas-Anderson Alena Uhlman Anne Payne Audrey Pearl Surette Bandah Bill Dowd Charles Danny O Rourke Charles MacKay Chris Mitchell Daina Kulnys Donald Chittick Donald Vye Graham Donald W. Purchase and Melanie L. Harris Edith Margaret James Elizabeth Keating Elizabeth Keating Eric Cleveland Florence Staicer Gunter Schmidt Hazel Hartling Howard Ripley James Sutherland John Forbes Thompson Lynn Taylor Marshall Margaret Sircom Nancy Katz Nancy Norwood Nathaniel Meissner Peter Underwood Robert A. McKinnon Robert George Rankin Robert Sherman Treat Wilfred Kennedy William Stewart MacDonald We make every effort to ensure that these lists are correct and complete. Please let us know if we ve made an error or omission. legacy circle members Dr. F. Towne and Tucke (Tara) Allen Murray Anderson Jamie Anderson Reid Anderson Dale Archibald Doris Arnold The late Heyworth Backus Anne Bastedo Farley Blackman Bruce Blakemore John Bottger The late Shirley Cameron Bert Campbell The late Curtis Chipman The late Mildred Clem The late Eric Cleveland Carl Crawley The late Harry Cross Denny Emory Chris Field The late Roger Field Nick Field Nigel Field Peter Field Rob Field Kenneth Field Gerald B. Freeman Henry W. Fuller Sharon Glynn David Gunn Suzanne and the Late John Gutting Martin Rudy Haase Sue Hayden Gail and the Late Jack Herbin Mary E. Hunter Klaus Jensen The late Walter Kauzmann Charlotte Keen Randall Knox The late Jeanne Lange Merloyd Lawrence Fred Lawrence Cornelia Learnard David Learnard Stewart Lindsay Peter Benedict MacIntosh Rosaleen McDonald Kent McNew David Miller Farley Mowat Clinton Muise Agnes Napier Paul Napier Corinne Napier Murray Napier The late Drake Petersen Janet Piers George Plater Darlene Ricker Thomas Rossiter Jason Roth The late Nancy Scobbie Robert Stead Brad Stephens Britton Stephens Patrick Stewart Darlene and the late Jack Stone The late John Forbes Thompson Mary Lou and the Late Robert Sherman Treat Sharon Treat Roger Treat Jessica Treat Carolyn Treat Rory Treat Alberto Trillo Vivian Walworth Roger Walworth Irene Walworth James Walworth Stanley Watkins Bill Zimmerman and Susan Hauer Ned Zimmerman Margo Zwicker in memory In 2012, the Nature Trust said a sad farewell to four very special friends of land conservation. Dr. Eric Cleveland, Roger Field and John Forbes Thompson shared a passion for the natural world, and were each generous donors of land to the Nature Trust. Members of our Legacy Circle, these forward thinking and conservation-minded land owners each made an incredibly important contribution to land conservation in Nova Scotia one that will last forever. Nancy Norwood was an invaluable member of the Nature Trust community, as a supporter and volunteer extraordinaire. We are very fortunate to have worked with such a strong advocate of our work and no doubt the most young at heart and passionate volunteer we ve known. Her generosity of spirit and her support for our conservation work will not be forgotten. protecting tomorrow today 33

34 friends of the nature trust major donors birds eye view project Shell Canada Ltd. F.K. Morrow Foundation coastal conservation greenprint TD Community Giving Foundation Anonymous Donor many thanks to all our donors, members, volunteers, and in-kind supporters who make our work possible. land conservation program Province of Nova Scotia Lands and Legacies Conservation Partnership Nova Scotia Crown Share Land Legacy Trust American Friends of Canadian Land Trusts nature trust annual dinner and auction troop island campaign coastal campaign This project was undertaken with the financial support of: Nova Scotia Crown Share Land Legacy Trust Nova Scotia Habitat Conservation Fund Canadian Land Trust Alliance Gregor Wilson endangered species Nova Scotia Crown Share Land Legacy Trust This project was undertaken with the financial support of: William P. Wharton Trust Nova Scotia Habitat Conservation Fund Erwin Taylor Charitable Foundation The Municipalities of the Districts of Shelburne and Lunenburg st. mary s river conservation legacy campaign Elizabeth Wakeman Henderson Charitable expedition for the earth: patagonia 2013 Lite 92.9 The Printer unrestricted major gifts and endowment gifts Rudy Haase Darlene Stone The Chronicle Herald East Coast Mobile Medical Inc. Anonymous donors employment programs Canada Student Jobs in-kind supporters & conservation partners Acadia University Atlantic Canada Conservation Data Centre American Friends of Canadian Land Trusts Bird Studies Canada Boyne Clarke Canoe/Kayak Nova Scotia Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources Halifax Field Naturalists Ingram Varner Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute The Printer TIANS Town of Wolfville Turner Drake This project was undertaken with the financial support of: Marjorie Lindsay Anne Campbell and John Lindsay Rudy Haase Pam Ferro St. Margaret s Bay Regional Tourism Development Association Fred and Elizabeth Fountain Marjorie Fountain Fred and Nancy Chipman Jean Marsh Jamie Judge Shining Waters Marina William Troupe Dusan Soudek Anonymous donors mcgowan lake turtle sanctuary campaign This project was undertaken with the financial support of: Imperial Oil Foundation TD Scotiabank Anonymous Donor 34 the nova scotia nature trust

35 friends of the nature trust changing faces at the nature trust In the spring of 2012, we said goodbye to our fund development coordinator of three years, Robin Levy. Robin was a hard-working and enthusiastic member of our staff team, and she is greatly missed. We wish her all the best in the next chapter of her career, as a fund development officer for Laing House. In January of this year, we were very excited to welcome Rose Spicer who has filled the newly created Director of Fund Development position at the Nature Trust. We re lucky to have such an experienced fundraising professional on our team, and we re confident that, with her leadership, we will secure new and much-needed funding relationships. We are delighted to welcome four new members to our Board of Directors: Adam Dillette (treasurer), Nancy Margeson, Todd King and Gregor Wilson. Thanks so much to each of you for joining our Board and giving so generously of your time to help advance our conservation mission. Nil d Entremont retired from the Board after six years of service, including leading the Board so enthusiastically as Vice President and President. Thanks very much Nil! Thanks also to David Thompson, who recently retired from the Board, after bringing much new energy and enthusiasm to the Nature Trust, both as a member of our Executive Committee, legal advisor, and as a much-appreciated member of our fund development team. Nature Trust president, Corey Miller (right), presents past president Nil d Entremont with plaque honouring his dedicated service to the Nature Trust. join our team Become a Nature Trust Volunteer! Positions available: property guardians Keen to spend time outdoors and contribute to land conservation? Join the Nature Trust and network of volunteers in ongoing stewardship of over 5500 acres of land. rare plant monitors Volunteer Rare Plant Monitors perform the vital work of helping the Endangered Species project staff to record data on rare coastal plain plants. bird s eye view program Are you a keen birder? Helps us gather bird data for current and prospective properties. newsletter committee We are looking for committed individuals to write, edit, and design our annual Natural Landscapes newsletter. office volunteers There are always lots of opportunities for volunteers to help out in the office. If you have time during the work week, let us know! event volunteers Help out by representing the Nature Trust at events! dinner committee volunteers Ticket sales are our top priority, and you can help us make this a banner year! Be a part of our signature event: the 16th Annual Nature Trust Dinner, October 24th at the world Trade and Convention Centre. To join up please contact Valerie LeBlanc at or valerie.leblanc@labatt.com If interested, please contact us at or nature@nsnt.ca. Painted Trillium. Photo: Jen Fried protecting tomorrow today 35

36 planned giving: how will you be remembered? There are many ways to arrange a planned gift, large or small. Such gifts provide preferential tax treatment that benefits your estate and financial plan, by offsetting income tax. Bequest Gift of Stock or Mutual Funds Life Estates Trusts and Annuities Life insurance Gifts of Land/Easements Real Estate ( Trade lands ) Please call us to find out more about leaving a natural legacy through planned giving LAND contributors Nicole Arsenault Donna D Amour Cristi Frittaion Dennis Garratt Monica Graham Danielle Grandy Peter Green Jennifer Gerrits Karen McKendry Alice Morgan Jen Organ Emily Sangster Bonnie Sutherland send submissions for natural landscapes to: nature@nsnt.ca or Nova Scotia Nature Trust P.O. Box 2202, Halifax, NS B3J 3C4 board of directors Corey Miller President Karen Miner Vice President Adam Dillette Treasurer Anne Campbell Henry Fuller Todd King Nancy Margeson Dale Smith Gregor Wilson Peter Wright honorary directors/patrons Alex Colville Farley Mowat Alice Reed science advisors Bob Bancroft Sherman Boates Tom Herman David MacKinnon Ian McLaren Chris Miller Martin Willison ambassadors Lorne O. Clarke Marty Janowitz George Sutherland executive director Bonnie Sutherland staff Nicole Arsenault Bruce Ford Cristi Frittaion Dennis Garratt Peter Green Alice Morgan Karen McKendry Allen Simpson Rose Spicer Nick Wilkinson Yes, I would like to support the Nature Trust. $15 Student $30 Individual $50 Family $50 Non-profit $100 Supporter/Corporate $500 Friend $1000 Benefacto Yes, I would like to become a member of Nature Trust Yes, I would like to donate $ (please enclose cheque or include VISA number below) Name Address City Province Yes, I would like to support the Nature Trust year round. Please withdraw a regular monthly donation of $ from my account on the 15th day of each month. (void cheque enclosed) Yes, I am a regular monthly donor, but would like to make a special gift. Please deduct an extra $ from my account this month. «Printorder» «BAG» «MODE» «FULLNAME» «COMPANY» «ADD1» «ADD2» «CITY» «PROV» «PCODE» Phone Number Nova Scotia Nature Nature Trust Trust - nature@nsnt.ca PO Box 2202 Halifax, NS B3J 3C4 Postal Code phone: (902) (902) 425-LAND (5263) (5263) tollfree: (877) (877) 434-LAND fax: (902) 429-LAND A cheque to the Nova Scotia Nature Trust is enclosed. I will pay with a VISA card (Please fill out information below). Card Number Signature Expiry Date Phone Please send me news by to save paper and trees. Please send a charitable tax receipt. Please send information on how I can leave the Nature Trust a legacy gift (i.e. wills, RRSPs, bequests, etc.). I Please have included send information the Nature on Trust volunteering. my will. Printed on 100% post consumer paper using vegetable-based inks