The Essex Region Conservation Foundation reported an "extremely successful" year for fundraising in 2023.
"The foundation is able to provide grants to the Essex Conservation Authority in the amount of $507,601 to undertake important conservation work," said foundation president Claire Wales.
ERCA chair Jim Morrison didn't understate the importance of the funding.
"The changes to the Conservation Authority Act make the work of the foundation more important than ever in ensuring we can continue to work together to achieve a state of environmental sustainability."
Of the money, $125,000 will go to both renovations at John R. Park Homestead and tree planting and habitat rehabilitation in the region. Another $95,000 will support public access and recreation at the new Collavino Conservation Area, $50,000 will support outdoor education, and $26,000 will pay for a new entrance at the Cypher Systems Group Greenway in Amherstburg. Almost $20,000 will refresh the entrance to the Devonwood Conservation Area.
The foundation hopes to match its fundraising success in 2024. Plans are underway.
