The Ontario government is investing $20 million through the Species Conservation Program to protect species at risk and their habitats across the province. This funding will support 46 community-led conservation projects focusing on at-risk species such as Monarch butterflies, Blanding’s turtles, and butternut trees. The initiative is part of Ontario’s broader effort to safeguard biodiversity and promote environmental stewardship for future generations.
The Species Conservation Program replaces the former Species at Risk Stewardship Program and increases funding fourfold, expanding support for community-based projects and expert-led conservation efforts. Minister Todd McCarthy emphasized that strategic investments will help restore habitats, support species recovery, and preserve Ontario’s biodiversity.
Among the recipients, Earth Rangers will receive $500,000 to develop seven new bilingual “missions” delivered through its app and website, enabling children and families to engage in practical conservation activities while learning about native at-risk species. The program also funds initiatives by ALUS Canada to restore over 4,700 acres of farmland, the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre to rehabilitate and release turtles, Ducks Unlimited Canada to enhance wetlands, Land Care Niagara to improve Monarch butterfly habitats, Georgian Bay Forever to remove invasive Phragmites, the Forest Gene Conservation Association to conserve disease-resistant butternut trees, and the Ontario Land Trust Alliance to secure and manage conservation lands.
Since 2018, Ontario has invested $33 million in over 220 conservation projects, creating more than 2,355 jobs and restoring nearly 50,000 acres of habitat for species at risk. The new program also allows funding for land securement for the first time, helping to protect ecologically significant areas critical to species survival. In 2024, over 99,500 Earth Rangers missions were completed by children and families, including activities such as planting pollinator gardens and leading litter cleanups.
Community leaders and organizations welcomed the investment, highlighting its role in engaging families, supporting Indigenous and local communities, and advancing on-the-ground conservation. Officials noted that funding will empower farmers and volunteers to actively restore habitats, strengthen biodiversity, and ensure the survival of threatened species while promoting environmental education and stewardship across Ontario.
