Nature Conservancy of Canada reaches deal with City of Kenora to purchase Town Island

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) and the City of Kenora reached a deal today regarding the future sale of Town Island. The two partners have been negotiating the terms of the sale since late last year. NCC is pleased to be able to move forward on this project and begin fundraising the $2.85 million needed to conserve Town Island.

The 82 hectares (202 acres) on the island currently held by the city represent an opportunity for the national non-profit and the community to come together to protect the abundant natural values of the island. For generations, campers attending BB Camp and Camp Stephens, cottagers and community members have enjoyed connecting with nature on Town Island. NCC’s goal is to work with these groups to ensure the conservation of the island’s unique biodiversity, while still allowing them to maintain their important connections with the island.

Lake of the Woods is home to more than 14,000 islands and 105,000 kilometres of shoreline. Mature forests play host to wide-ranging mammals, like American black bear and moose, while the shores and coastal wetlands provide nurseries for fish and habitat for migratory birds. Lake of the Woods is also closely connected to Shoal Lake, which supplies the City of Winnipeg’s drinking water.

In recent years, this area has come under increasing pressure from development, contaminants, algal blooms and invasive species. It is for these reasons that NCC has stepped forward to work with the community and partners to care for the island. Now, the charity must raise the necessary funds to purchase and care for Town Island by summer 2022. The fundraising goal includes the cost of land as well as an endowment to help care for the island for the long-term. For more information and to donate, visit Nature Conservancy / Town Island.