County of Brant, in collaboration with Ontario Nature, is proud to announce the contribution of 195.52 hectares of natural areas towards Canada’s target of protecting and conserving 30 per cent of our lands and waters by 2030.
This national initiative, supported through the Municipal Protected Areas Program, is commonly known at the “30×30” target.
The partnership with Ontario Nature led to an extensive evaluation of County-owned properties that are designated natural heritage areas. This assessment determined that the County of Brant’s properties are being conserved for biodiversity at national standards for Protected and Conserved Areas. The County of Brant’s involvement marks a significant step towards halting and reversing biodiversity loss within the County through dedication to stewardship and conservation of nature.
Notable areas that count towards the 30×30 target include Barker’s Bush in Paris and Jacob’s Woods Park in St. George. Properties have long-term conservation measures in place and are made up of woodlands, valleys, wetlands, rivers, and streams. Federally and provincially listed species at risk, including the Monarch, Barn Swallow, Midland Painted Turtle, also call these habitats home and support an interconnected web of life. Protecting these areas is part our Climate Action Plan commitment, as they contribute to clean air, climate adaptation, water filtration, flood risk reduction, recreational opportunities, and greenhouse gas absorption.
This important work was guided by the County’s Climate Action Plan, which is the long-term roadmap to support climate change mitigation, adaptation, and overall environmental sustainability.
Moving forward, the County will continue to work alongside community members and local partners to conserve and protect our natural environment.
