HCA Funding Information and Financial Statements

Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA) is funded through a combination of self-generated revenues, grants, donations and municipal levies. This funding model allows us to manage, maintain, and protect our watershed lands and conservation areas for the benefit of all.

How Conservation Authorities Are Funded
For decades, Conservation Authorities in Ontario operated under a shared provincial-municipal funding model. Over time, provincial support has steadily declined. Recent legislative changes have further reduced the role of provincial funding and placed a stronger emphasis on local responsibility and self-sustainability.

Today, the majority of HCA’s budget comes from:

  • Self-generated revenue, including park admissions, parking, rentals, programs, and memberships
  • Municipal levies, primarily from the City of Hamilton and the Township of Puslinch
  • Grants, including limited provincial and federal contributions
  • Donations and sponsorships, often through the Hamilton Conservation Foundation

This funding model aligns with the standard practice for Conservation Authorities across Ontario.

Balancing Access and Sustainability
While admission and program fees are a necessary part of our operating model, we remain committed to ensuring equitable access to nature. Some of the ways we support this include:

These initiatives help make nature accessible to all while supporting the long-term sustainability of our natural areas.

Financial Statements
HCA publishes audited financial statements annually to maintain transparency and accountability. These documents detail revenues, expenditures, and the allocation of funds across programs and services.

The most recent audited statement will be posted as soon as it becomes available, once approved by the Board of Directors.

Financial Statements