Hamilton Conservation Authority acquires more than 200 acres of provincially significant natural lands

Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA) is taking a significant step toward protecting natural heritage with the acquisition of more than 200 acres of environmentally significant land near Valens Lake and Fletcher Creek Conservation Areas. The purchase is HCA’s largest land acquisition within its watershed in more than a decade and fulfills a key objective in the Authority’s 2025–2029 Strategic Plan to secure new lands for conservation.

The acquisition is being supported by HCA’s fundraising partner, the Hamilton Conservation Foundation. Land conservation has long been at the heart of the Foundation’s mission, and as part of its 50th anniversary campaign, the Foundation is raising $500,000 to support this landmark acquisition, with $300,000 already committed toward the purchase.

The property is primarily forest and wetland habitat and includes the headwaters of Fletcher Creek. Much of the parcel forms part of the Fletcher Creek Swamp Provincially Significant Wetland and is located within the Fletcher Creek Life Science Area of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI); two provincial designations recognizing the area’s exceptional ecological importance.

Fletcher Creek flows directly through the property, supporting wetland function, watershed health and ecological connectivity. Protecting these lands will conserve sensitive wetlands, forests and riparian habitat while strengthening ecological connections throughout the Fletcher Creek system. The property also supports a rich diversity of plants and wildlife, including several Species at Risk such as Wood Thrush, Eastern Woodpewee and Snapping Turtle, highlighting its importance within the region’s natural heritage system.

“This acquisition reflects the vision of our Board when we adopted our Land Acquisition Strategy,” said Councillor Brad Clark, Chair of the Hamilton Conservation Authority. “Protecting more than 200 acres of wetlands, forests and headwater habitat strengthens our watershed, supports biodiversity and ensures these important natural areas remain protected for future generations. This is a significant milestone for our organization and for our community.”

“For 50 years, the Hamilton Conservation Foundation has helped make conservation possible by connecting generous donors with opportunities to protect the natural places that define our region,” said Graham Reid, Chair of the Hamilton Conservation Foundation. “We are proud to partner with Hamilton Conservation Authority to permanently protect this remarkable property.”

The acquisition is scheduled to close on October 1, 2026.