With the acquisition of more than 90 acres of land just east of Castleton, the Northumberland Land Trust (NLT) has created its 16th nature reserve.
The Haddon Nature Reserve is mostly forested with several small streams running through it as well as a ponds and wetlands. A broad selection of trees grows here, including some of considerable age. The small ravines along the steam edge are lined with old hemlock and White Pine and the southern-most parcel has a small hayfield which is attractive to grassland species.
“Dari Haddon has cared for the property as if it were a nature reserve since she purchased the property in 2007,” said Rob Kennedy, President of the Northumberland Land Trust. “Only walking has taken place on the trails in the forest, and there has been no off-road vehicle use on the property.”
Haddon began the process of donating this property in 2023. Her house was severed from the surrounding property so that she could continue to live in her home.
She will remain the steward of the land, and will become a member of the NLT’s dedicated team of property stewards.
“Some people want to donate their land and remain actively involved with its care,” added Kennedy. “Donations of land have tax implications and require an appraisal, severance, surveys, legal documents and township approval, and this process can cost up to $40,000 as well as ongoing stewardship costs. Donations and grants are key to covering these expenses.”
The Environment and Climate Change Canada-administered Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund provided financial support for the costs associated with completing this land donation to the Northumberland Land Trust.
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