Conservation Manitou Increases Protection of Lac de la Loutre (a.k.a. Atwater Lake)

Ste-Agathe-des-Monts, June 27, 2024 – CONSERVATION MANITOU is pleased to announce that it has purchased 13.4 acres on the south side of Lac de la Loutre (a.k.a. Atwater Lake) from the Adib family. This eco-sensitive area, frequented by moose and containing important wetlands and streams, is located only a few meters from Atwater Lake and was threatened by a residential development. “We are happy to have reached an agreement with the Adib family which benefits all stakeholders.” states Stephen Takacsy, Chair of Conservation Manitou. “Residents of the neighboring community of Lac Groulx (a.k.a Lac Castor) united to help us preserve this land and increase our protection of Atwater Lake, which at the same time protects the Lac Groulx watershed. We welcome them as new members of Conservation Manitou and thank them for their financial support alongside several of our long-time members who also donated to this important cause. This acquisition expands our Atwater Lake Reserve to over 260 acres and further preserves the beauty and tranquility of Atwater Lake and its ecosystem.”

CONSERVATION MANITOU is a registered charity and qualified recipient of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program. Its mission is to preserve and protect the ecosystem and natural environment of Lake Manitou and its surroundings, by acquiring land and conservation easements, either donated or purchased, and providing stewardship in perpetuity. It is one of the leading organizations dedicated to the preservation of natural areas in the Laurentians with 1,973 acres of conservation lands under ownership located in the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts and Mont-Blanc. To learn more or donate, please visit: www.conservationmanitou.ca.

CONSERVATION MANITOU: 11th Annual Meeting of Members

The board of directors of CONSERVATION MANITOU is pleased to announce that it will be holding its 11th Annual Meeting of Members on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 2pm at 601 Chemin de la Gare in Ivry-sur-le-Lac. Class A Voting members not planning to attend the meeting are encouraged to send us their voting proxy included in the attached Notice of Annual Meeting of Members.

Since our founding 11 years ago, we have:

1- Raised over $5.5 million in cash thanks to donations from nearly 300 members and government grants.
2- Received over $4 million in land donations thanks to the generosity of 15 landowners.
3- Acquired 25 properties totalling 1,960 acres including 4 lakes, 5,000 feet of shoreline on Lake Manitou, 2,500 feet of shoreline on Horseshoe Lake, and sections of historic ski trails such as the Maple Leaf and Laurentian.
4- Created 12 protected natural areas around Lake Manitou.
5- Rezoned 638 acres with the help of the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac and Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts.
6- Collaborated with the Municipality of Ivry-sur-le-Lac to protect 171 acres threatened by development, including part of Riviere Noire.
7- Partnered with Nature Conservancy of Canada in acquiring 541 acres to help maintain ecological connectivity in the greater region.
8- Spearheaded the creation of the Ivry Wildlife Crossing, the first wildlife crossing in the Laurentians, in partnership with Nature Conservancy of Canada and Eco-corridors laurentiens.
9- Grew our Stewardship Fund to $450,000 to help cover the ongoing carrying costs of our conservation lands.
10- Acquired mining claims to protect our conservation lands and adjacent areas from mining activities.

Here is a copy of the presentation.

Conservation Manitou - 2023 Annual Report

Dear members and friends,

2023 marked our 10th anniversary as a registered charity focused on protecting Lake Manitou’s ecosystem. Since our founding, we completed 25 acquisitions and broadened our conservation efforts to promote ecological connectivity in the greater region with other organizations. During the year, we were gifted 110 acres of land near Lake Brazeau just west of Lake Manitou by Aileen Cagney, widow of the late Fred Barker, through ECCC’s Ecological Gifts Program. Subsequent to year-end, we purchased 221 acres adjacent to the Ivry Wildlife Crossing and to several of our properties, forming a large contiguous protected area of 547 acres. This latest acquisition brings our total land holdings to approximately 1,960 acres, just shy of our stated goal of preserving 2,000 acres within 10 years.

While donations and grants were down significantly in 2023, the prior year was a record for government grants due to the large number of land purchases made qualifying for public funding.  We finished 2023 with a healthy working capital surplus and a Stewardship Fund totalling $450,000. We continue to evaluate numerous opportunities, but need to remain disciplined yet nimble in the face of mounting pressure from land developers. Our 11th Annual Meeting will be held on June 29 at 2pm at the new townhall in Ivry-sur-le-Lac where we look forward to your presence again this year.

We welcome you to please download Conservation Manitou - 2023 Annual Report.

Conservation Manitou Acquires 221 Acres in Ivry-sur-le-Lac

Conservation Manitou Acquires 221 Acres in Ivry-sur-le-Lac

Ivry-sur-le-Lac, April 10, 2024 – CONSERVATION MANITOU is pleased to announce that it has acquired 221 acres of forests and wetlands in Ivry-sur-la-Lac from Lac Châtillon Properties. This large eco-sensitive property borders Highway 117 and straddles both sides of Le P’tit Train du Nord Linear Park, comprising parts of Rivière Noire, numerous streams, wetlands, forests and hilltops. The acquisition was made with the financial support of the Quebec government’s ‘Projet de partenariat pour les milieux naturels’ (PPMN), for which $53 million was awarded to the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), as well as a grant from Environment and Climate Change Canada through the Canadian Wildlife Service.

“This represents our 25th acquisition in just over 10 years since our foundation, increasing our total protected area to 1,960 acres. This land is directly adjacent or close to several of our other properties and to the Ivry Wildlife Crossing, forming a large near contiguous 545-acre area critical for maintaining ecological connectivity.” states Stephen Takacsy, Chair of Conservation Manitou. “We are honored that the descendants of the Huntly Drummond family have placed their trust in us to protect this vast and beautiful wilderness area which will now be part of the regional wildlife corridor we are creating with other like-minded organizations. Also, we are again thankful for the help received from Nature-Action Québec, Nature Conservancy of Canada, and the Quebec and Canadian governments. ”

From left to right : Marc Delage (Nature-Action Québec), Stephen Takacsy (Conservation Manitou),
Martine Brais (notary), Bruce McNiven (Lac Châtillon Properties Inc.). Photo : NAQ 

“ Nature-Action Québec is proud of the efforts made by all parties involved in successfully completing this transaction for which the protected area represents an important gain for the region. We would also like to acknowledge the precious collaboration of our partners, namely the Government of Québec and Environment and Climate Change Canada, who helped purchase these 221 acres and contributed endowment funds for ongoing stewardship. “

  • Romy Bazo, Head of conservation, Nature-Action Québec

“The protection of natural areas in Ivry-sur-le-Lac is good news for the Laurentians. It’s thanks to initiatives like this that we are able to protect the great diversity of fauna and flora and their habitats in our region. I would like to thank all of our partners who have united for this cause. It’s by working together that we will be able to preserve our rich natural heritage “.

  • Benoit Charette, minister for « l’Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs » and minister responsible for the Laurentians region ».

“Protecting nature concerns everyone and benefits everyone. This ecologically valuable project will contribute to the conservation of our natural heritage, as well as to the health and well-being of the community. It’s a successful example of the results we can deliver when governments, local communities, and conservation groups work together to achieve our goal of conserving 30 percent of Canada’s land and oceans by 2030.”

  • The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change  

Acknowledgements

This project was made possible thanks to the subsidy that the Government of Quebec awarded to NCC for the PPMN and a grant received from Environment and Climate Change Canada through the Canadian Wildlife Service.

 About

The Partenariat pour les milieu naturels project (PPMN)

The PPMN is a four-year grant of more than $53 million that the Ministère de l’Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques awarded to the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC). By establishing financial partnerships with conservation organizations in the province, it provides support for initiatives protecting natural environments of interest. In this way, the PPMN aims to develop and consolidate Quebec’s network of protected areas located on private land.

About Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Canada Nature Fund

The Canada Nature Fund supports the protection of Canada’s biodiversity through the creation of protected and conserved areas and through initiatives that help to recover species at risk. The Fund is available to not-for-profit and Indigenous organizations, provinces and territories, and others. https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/nature-legacy/fund.html

Nature Conservancy of Canada

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is Canada’s leading private land conservation organization and a non-profit organization working to protect our most important natural environments and the species they support. Since 1962, the NCC and its partners have helped protect 14 million hectares from coast to coast, including nearly 48,000 hectares in Quebec. For more information : natureconservation.ca

Nature-Action Québec

For thirty five years, the non-profit Nature-Action Québec has had the mission to guide individuals and organizations in applying better environmental practices. The organization works with municipalities, businesses, community organizations and citizens to carry out concrete projects that contribute to improving Quebecers’ environment, health, well-being, and quality of life.

CONSERVATION MANITOU is a registered charity and qualified recipient of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program. Its mission is to preserve and protect the ecosystem and natural environment of Lake Manitou and its surroundings, by acquiring land and conservation easements, either donated or purchased, and providing stewardship in perpetuity. It is one of the leading organizations dedicated to the preservation of natural areas in the Laurentians with 1,960 acres of conservation lands under ownership located in the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts and Mont-Blanc. To learn more or donate, please visit: www.conservationmanitou.ca.

Enquiries:

Stephen Takacsy
President and Chair, Conservation Manitou
info@conservationmanitou.ca

Conservation Manitou - 2022 Annual Report (Copy)

Dear members and friends,

2022 was one of our busiest years with four land acquisitions completed totalling 237 acres. We began by acquiring 7.5 acres on the south side of Lake Manitou with 576 feet of shoreline. This parcel, purchased from David Johnson at a discount in the context of the Ecological Gifts Program, is named the Ann Johnson Reserve in memory of his wife Ann (née Bushell) who wished it to be preserved. We also teamed up with the municipality of Ivry-sur-le-Lac to buy 172 acres of forest and wetlands which were threatened with development, stretching from Chemin Lac de la Grise northwards to beyond Riviere Noir. We acquired 141 acres of this property while the municipality purchased the remaining 31 acres along the P’tit Train du Nord Linear Park. This property, along with another 87.5 acres of land we bought along Chemin Lac de la Grise, contain a 1 kilometer section of the historic Maple Leaf cross-country ski trail known as the “Nantel”. Finally, McCall Island Foundation transferred us its remaining 1.1 acres of land on the south shore of Lake Manitou. Subsequent to year-end, the Fred Barker family gifted us 110 acres of land in the Lake Brazeau area just west of Lake Manitou, through which cross several scenic trails including the historic Laurentian ski trail.

Donations from members, combined with government grants, reached nearly $1.1 million, all of which was deployed toward land acquisitions and to bolster our Stewardship Fund. We finished the year in a strong financial position as we continue to evaluate numerous opportunities. However, as we acquire more land, we need to continue growing our Stewardship Fund to pay increasing carrying costs such as municipal taxes. 2023 marks the 10th anniversary of our founding, and with 1,738 acres of conservation lands currently under our protection, we are within reach of achieving our stated goal of preserving 2,000 acres. Please join us for our 10th Annual Meeting of Members on May 20th at 2pmat the Ivry-sur-le-Lac town hall to celebrate this important milestone.

We welcome you to please download Conservation Manitou - 2022 Annual Report.

Conservation Manitou Receives Land Donation of 110 Acres

Mont-Blanc, April 17, 2023 – CONSERVATION MANITOU is pleased to announce that it has acquired 110 acres of forested land in the area of Lac Brazeau, just west of Lake Manitou from the Fred Barker Family. The land was gifted by Aileen Frances Cagney, who passed away shortly afterwards and weeks before her 101st birthday. Aileen was the widow of Fred Barker who acquired the property in the 1960’s from Telesphore Brazeau. The property contains a wide variety of topography from wetlands and numerous streams to hilltops and mountain ridges. Several scenic trails cross the property including the historic Laurentian cross-country ski trail still indicated by the occasional old rusty metal marker.

 “This significant gift from the family of the late Fred Barker marks the 15th land donation received by Conservation Manitou in its 10 years of existence and boosts our total holdings to 1,738 acres. We are grateful and honored to be given the role of protector and steward of this beautiful property.” states Stephen Takacsy, Chair of Conservation Manitou. “On this important anniversary of our founding, it bears reiterating our community’s heartfelt thanks to all of our other land donors and their families: Doreen Adams, David Culver, Tony Dobell, Shirley (McCall) Stikeman, David McCall, Aaron Remer, Jennifer Patton, John & Dinah Patton, Ken Hague, John & Marie Tremble, Ann (Bushell) & David Johnson, the McCall Island Foundation, and the Barbara Richardson Wildlife Foundation.”

CONSERVATION MANITOU is a registered charity and qualified recipient of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program. Its mission is to preserve and protect the ecosystem and natural environment of Lake Manitou and its surroundings, by acquiring land and conservation easements, either donated or purchased, and providing stewardship in perpetuity. It is one of the leading organizations dedicated to the preservation of natural areas in the Laurentians with 1,738 acres of conservation lands under ownership located in the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts and Mont-Blanc (formerly Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carré). To learn more or donate, please visit: www.conservationmanitou.ca.

Enquiries:
Stephen Takacsy
President and Chair, Conservation Manitou
info@conservationmanitou.ca


Conservation Manitou Purchases 87.5 Acres in Ivry-sur-le-Lac

Conservation Manitou Purchases 87.5 Acres in Ivry-sur-le-Lac

Ivry-sur-le-Lac, February 6, 2023 – CONSERVATION MANITOU is pleased to announce that it purchased 87.5 acres of forested land in Ivry-sur-le-Lac. The acquired property contains a significant amount of wetlands including numerous streams, as well as a section of the historic Maple Leaf Trail known as the “Nantel”. The acquisition by Conservation Manitou was made with the financial support of Nature Conservancy of Canada’s ‘Projet de partenariat pour les milieux naturels’ (PPMN) for which the Quebec government provided $53 million in financial assistance, as well as a grant from Environment and Climate Change Canada through the Canada Nature Fund’s Target 1 Challenge.

“This purchase caps off a very busy 2022 during which Conservation Manitou acquired 237 acres of land bringing its total conservation land holdings to 1,628 acres. We are again grateful for the support and trust we received from Nature-Action Québec, Nature Conservancy of Canada, and the Quebec and Canadian governments.” states Stephen Takacsy, Chair of Conservation Manitou. “This land of high ecological value is also strategically located in proximity to the Ivry Wildlife Crossing and is part of our plan to help consolidate ecological connectivity in the region with other like-minded organizations. This property not only commands a high ecological value due to the large proportion of wetlands on it, but also has a high heritage value due to the presence of part of the historic Maple Leaf cross-country ski trail.”  

Quotes

“ We are very pleased to work with Conservation Manitou on the preservation of exceptional natural areas such as those with the Maple Leaf Trail. Following COP15 which was held in Montreal last fall, every acre that is added to our protected areas demonstrates the will of Quebec land conservancies to protect the natural environment and the species that inhabit them.”

-        Romy Bazo,  Manager of Conservation, NAQ

« The area targeted by this acquisition is of particular interest since it is comprised of wetlands and part of a wildlife crossing, two important settings for a large number of species of fauna and flora. Bravo to all the partners involved in the acquisition of this forested land. Every region that is protected will enrich our network of protected areas and makes a difference. »

-        Benoit Charette, ministre de l'Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs et ministre responsable de la région des Laurentides

"The protection of nature concerns us all. We are pleased to support this project of great ecological and heritage value that contributes to the maintenance of biodiversity and the well-being of the community. In collaboration with Conservation Manitou, Nature-Action Québec, the Nature Conservancy of Canada, and the Government of Québec, we are taking action to achieve our goal of conserving one quarter of Canada's land and oceans by 2025 and 30 percent by 2030."

– The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

About

Nature Conservancy of Canada

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is the country’s unifying force for nature. NCC seeks solutions to the twin crises of rapid biodiversity loss and climate change through large-scale, permanent land conservation. As a trusted partner, NCC works with people, communities, businesses and government to protect and care for our most important natural areas. Since 1962, NCC has brought Canadians together to conserve and restore more than 15 million hectares, including nearly 50,000 hectares in Quebec. NCC is a registered charity. With nature, NCC builds a thriving world. To learn more, visit natureconservation.ca

The Projet de partenariat pour les milieu naturels (PPMN)

The Projet de partenariat pour les milieux naturels (PPMN) is a four-year grant of more than $53 million from the Government of Quebec to the Nature Conservancy of Canada. It provides support for voluntary conservation initiatives to ensure the protection of natural areas of interest by establishing financial partnerships with conservation organizations in the province. The PPMN thus aims to develop and consolidate Québec's network of protected areas located on private land.

About Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Canada Nature Fund

The Canada Nature Fund supports the protection of Canada’s biodiversity through the creation of protected and conserved areas and through initiatives that help to recover species at risk. The Fund is available to not-for-profit and Indigenous organizations, provinces and territories, and others. https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/nature-legacy/fund.html

Nature-Action Québec

For thirty-five years, the non-profit Nature-Action Québec has had the mission to guide individuals and organizations in applying better environmental practices. The organization works with municipalities, businesses, community organizations and citizens to carry out concrete projects that contribute to improving Quebecers’ environment, health, well-being, and quality of life.

CONSERVATION MANITOU is a registered charity and qualified recipient of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program. Its mission is to preserve and protect the ecosystem and natural environment of Lake Manitou and its surroundings, by acquiring land and conservation easements, either donated or purchased, and providing stewardship in perpetuity. It is one of the leading organizations dedicated to the preservation of natural areas in the Laurentians with 1,628 acres of conservation lands under ownership located in the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts and Mont-Blanc (Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carré). To learn more or donate, please visit: www.conservationmanitou.ca.

Enquiries:

Stephen Takacsy

President and Chair, Conservation Manitou

info@conservationmanitou.ca

Conservation Manitou Purchases 141 Acres in Ivry-sur-le-Lac

Conservation Manitou Purchases 141 Acres in Ivry-sur-le-Lac

Ivry-sur-le-Lac, July 19, 2022 – CONSERVATION MANITOU is pleased to announce that it has purchased 141 acres of forested land in Ivry-sur-le-Lac from the Piché family. As part of the transaction, the Municipality of Ivry-sur-le-Lac has concurrently purchased 30.7 acres of land, thus creating a172-acre contiguous protected area that ranges from Chemin Lac de la Grise to beyond the P’tit Train du Nord Linear Park. The combined property contains a section of Rivière Noire, streams, wetlands, hilltops, and a popular section of the historic Maple Leaf Trail known as the “Nantel”. The area will be preserved in perpetuity in its natural state in memory of Guy Piché as per the wishes of the Piché family. The acquisition by Conservation Manitou was made with the financial support of the Quebec government’s ‘Projet de partenariat pour les milieux naturels’ (PPMN), for which $53 million was awarded to the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC). 

“This marks Conservation Manitou’s 21st acquisition in 9 years, and we are thrilled to have teamed up with the Municipality of Ivry-sur-le-Lac to protect this highly coveted property which was recently threatened with development. We thank mayor André Ibghy, his councillors, and staff, for their participation. We are also immensely grateful to all our partners including Nature-Action Québec, Nature Conservancy of Canada, the Quebec government, and most importantly, our many generous members who donated funds to help us complete this very important purchase.” states Stephen Takacsy, Chair of Conservation Manitou. “The strategic location of this large tract of land, in proximity to the Ivry Wildlife Crossing and adjacent to significant wetlands, will help consolidate ecological connectivity in the region. We are not only protecting biodiversity in the Laurentians but also an important part of its heritage through the preservation of part of the historic Maple Leaf ski trail.”    

Acknowledgements

This project was made possible thanks to the subsidy that the Government of Quebec awarded to the NCC for the PPMN.

Quotes

“What a joy to participate in this acquisition which will allow for the preservation of an exceptional natural area that belonged to the Piché family. The efforts of Conservation Manitou, the Municipality of Ivry-sur-le-Lac, and the Piché family, will guarantee its protection in perpetuity! This magnificent property will be preserved not only for the benefit of nature but also for humans who can enjoy the numerous attractions it has to offer. I would also like to thank the extraordinary work of the acquisition, management, and enhancement of natural environments team at Nature-Action Québec (NAQ). It’s thanks to them that such projects get realized.”

  • Romy Bazo, Head of acquisition, management, and enhancement of natural environments for NAQ.

About

CONSERVATION MANITOU is a registered charity and qualified recipient of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program. Its mission is to preserve and protect the ecosystem and natural environment of Lake Manitou and its surroundings, by acquiring land and conservation easements, either donated or purchased, and providing stewardship in perpetuity. It is one of the leading organizations dedicated to the preservation of natural areas in the Laurentians with nearly 1,540 acres of conservation lands under ownership located in the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts and Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carré. To learn more or donate, please visit: www.conservationmanitou.ca.

The Partenariat pour les milieu naturels project (PPMN)

The PPMN is a four-year grant of more than $53 million that the Ministère de l’Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques awarded to the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC). By establishing financial partnerships with conservation organizations in the province, it provides support for initiatives protecting natural environments of interest. In this way, the PPMN aims to develop and consolidate Quebec’s network of protected areas located on private land.

Nature Conservancy of Canada

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is Canada’s leading private land conservation organization and a non-profit organization working to protect our most important natural environments and the species they support. Since 1962, the NCC and its partners have helped protect 14 million hectares from coast to coast, including nearly 48,000 in Quebec. For more information : natureconservation.ca

Nature-Action Québec

For thirty-five years, the non-profit Nature-Action Québec has had the mission to guide individuals and organizations in applying better environmental practices. The organization works with municipalities, businesses, community organizations and citizens to carry out concrete projects that contribute to improving Quebecers’ environment, health, well-being and quality of life. 

Enquiries:

Stephen Takacsy

President and Chair, Conservation Manitou

info@conservationmanitou.ca

Conservation Manitou - 2021 Annual Report

2021 was another busy year for Conservation Manitou. We purchased 55 acres of land directly adjacent to 79 acres we already own south-east of Lake Manitou. This 134-acre area will be named Manitou Valley Reserve, for which we are applying to the Quebec government for Private Nature Reserve status. We also received a 3.5-acre land donation from John and Marie Tremble next to our Hague property. Subsequent to year-end, we acquired 7.5 acres on the south side of Lake Manitou, featuring 576 feet of shoreline and a stream which discharges into the lake from a vast wetland area. This valuable parcel was purchased from David Johnson in the context of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program, and will be named the Ann Johnson Reserve in memory of his wife Ann (née Bushell) who wished this land to be preserved. We also signed a promise to purchase 172 acres of land north of Lake Manitou featuring a section of the historic Maple Leaf (Nantel) ski trail, for which we are currently raising funds.

2021 was also a record year for fundraising and government grants. Despite the strong inflow of donations from new and current members, we decided to increase the Stewardship Fund by only $23,800 to $223,800, preferring to keep surplus funds for future land acquisitions. Pandemic travel restrictions and low interest rates have caused demand and property prices to rise, and has created more competition from developers. However, we remain disciplined in deploying the funds that have been entrusted to us. Meanwhile, our annual operating costs remain well under control. With nearly 1,400 acres of land under its protection, we can all be proud that Conservation Manitou has become one of the most important players in Quebec’s conservation scene.

We welcome you to please download Conservation Manitou - 2021 Annual Report.

Conservation Manitou Acquires 7.5 acres on Lake Manitou creating the Ann Johnson Reserve

Conservation Manitou Acquires 7.5 acres on Lake Manitou creating the Ann Johnson Reserve

Ivry-sur-le-Lac, March 3, 2022 – CONSERVATION MANITOU (CM) is pleased to announce that it has purchased 7.5 acres of forested land on the southern shoreline of Lake Manitou. The property was acquired from David Johnson under Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program and the the Quebec government’s ‘Partenariat pour les milieux naturels’ project. The area will be named the Ann Johnson Reserve to honor the wishes of Mr. Johnson’s wife, Ann (née Bushell), of preserving this land in its natural state.

“We thank the Johnson family for giving us the opportunity to acquire such an ecologically sensitive and valuable property to protect biodiversity. We are also most grateful to Louise Penny for making a significant donation to Conservation Manitou allowing us to complete the purchase,” states Stephen Takacsy, Chair of CM. “This land features 576 feet of shoreline and an important stream that discharges into Lake Manitou from a vast wetland area. We thank our partners, Nature-Action Québec, Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), the Quebec government, and our many current and new members for their financial support.”

Acknowledgements

This project was made possible thanks to Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program, and a financial contribution of the Government of Quebec via the ‘Partenariat pour les milieux naturels’ project of the Ministère de l’Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques’.

Quotes

“It is always an inspiration to see citizens entrust their properties to conservation organizations that we work with to protect natural areas and ensure the preservation of biodiversity. Congratulations to Conservation Manitou which was able to acquire this land with the help of the ‘Partenariat pour les milieux naturels’ project.”

Benoit Charrette, minister for “Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques”, minister responsible for “Lutte contre le racisme” and minister responsible for the Laval region.

”Conservation in Quebec is a partnership between a small group of organizations working together on a very large cause! Bravo to Conservation Manitou for this accomplishment and thank you to Mr. Johnson and his family, as well as Mrs. Penny for their commitment towards preserving nature. “

Romy Bazo, Head of acquisition, management, and enhancement of natural environments for Nature-Action Québec.

About

CONSERVATION MANITOU is a registered charity and qualified recipient of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program. Its mission is to preserve and protect the ecosystem and natural environment of Lake Manitou and its surroundings, by acquiring land and conservation easements, either donated or purchased, and providing stewardship in perpetuity. It is one of the leading organizations dedicated to the preservation of natural areas in the Laurentians with nearly 1,400 acres of conservation lands under ownership located in the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts and Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carré. To learn more or donate, please visit: www.conservationmanitou.ca.

The Partenariat pour les milieu naturels project (PPMN)

The PPMN is a four-year grant of more than $53 million that the Ministère de l’Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques awarded to the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC). By establishing financial partnerships with conservation organizations in the province, it provides support for initiatives protecting natural environments of interest. In this way, the PPMN aims to develop and consolidate Quebec’s network of protected areas located on private land.

Nature Conservancy of Canada

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is Canada’s leading private land conservation organization and a non-profit organization working to protect our most important natural environments and the species they support. Since 1962, the NCC and its partners have helped protect 14 million hectares from coast to coast, including nearly 48,000 in Quebec. For more information : natureconservation.ca

Nature-Action Québec

For thirty-five years, the non-profit Nature-Action Québec has had the mission to guide individuals and organizations in applying better environmental practices. The organization works with municipalities, businesses, community organizations and citizens to carry out concrete projects that contribute to improving Quebecers’ environment, health, well-being and quality of life.

Conservation Manitou - 2020 Annual Report

Dear members and friends,

2020 was a year when we could all truly appreciate having vast natural outdoor spaces to escape to while health risks and government-imposed lockdowns greatly impacted our daily lives. Despite the challenges, Conservation Manitou closed the purchase of 3 acres of land which expanded our Hanging Rock-Barker Lake Reserve to 51 acres. We also ramped-up our fundraising efforts as several key land acquisition opportunities arose. Last fall we signed a promise to purchase 55 acres of land adjacent to 79 acres we already own south-east of Lake Manitou, which successfully closed in March 2021. This 134-acre area will be named Manitou Valley Reserve, and we plan on applying to the Quebec government for Natural Reserve status in order to further protect it in perpetuity.

Thanks to the generosity of our existing membership, and donations from many new members, we raised nearly $170,000 during 2020. Of this amount, we added $30,000 to our Stewardship Fund which totaled $200,000 at year end. Fixed income from investments made in the fund now covers over half of our annual operating costs which are mainly comprised of municipal and school taxes, audit fees, and insurance. Our goal is to reach an income level for which all of our annual costs are covered. As we acquire more land, this revenue stream needs to rise as well. Our goal is now to reach $300,000 in endowment funds with your help.

Since its founding in 2013, Conservation Manitou has become one of the most important players in Quebec’s conservation scene. Accomplishments include having 1,387 acres of eco-sensitive land under our protection around Lake Manitou , spearheading the establishment of the Ivry Wildlife Crossing, the first such crossing in the Laurentians, and rallying other like-minded organizations into creating an important wildlife corridor in the Lake Manitou region to ensure ecological connectivity with other protected areas. Depending on the circumstances, we hope to be able to host our 8th Annual Members Meeting in-person some time this summer at a time and place to be determined.

We welcome you to please download Conservation Manitou - 2020 Annual Report.

Conservation Manitou purchases 55 acres south-east of Lake Manitou

CONSERVATION MANITOU (CM) is proud to announce that it now protects an additional 55 acres of forested land directly adjacent to land it already owns on the southeast side of Lake Manitou. The combined 134-acre area will be named the Manitou Valley Reserve.

“We are pleased to have finally acquired this property after over four years of negotiations. We now have enough landmass to protect a meaningful ecosystem and plan to apply for a recognized Natural Reserve status with the Quebec government to protect this area in the long run and ensure connectivity for the movement of wildlife in the region,” states Stephen Takacsy, Chair of CM. “This property contains streams, steep rock ledges, and a summit with a breathtaking view of Lake Manitou and Lac des Sables. We thank our partners, mentioned below, our many current members and new donors for their financial support in helping us acquire this strategic property, as well as Nature-Action Québec and the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC).” 

Acknowledgements

This project was made possible by financial contributions from: the Government of Canada through Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Canadian Wildlife Service, the Government of Quebec through the Ministère de l’Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques’ project “Projet de partenariat pour les milieux naturels” (PPMN), Fondation de la Faune du Québec and Echo Foundation. 

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“Every protected natural area in the south of Quebec makes a difference and allows for the conservation of important ecosystems. I am pleased to find that funds we are giving to the ‘Projet de partenariat pour les milieux naturels’ are contributing to the protection of southern Quebec. Congratulations to Conservation Manitou on this acquisition!” Benoit Charette, minister for “Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques”, minister responsible for “Lutte contre le racisme” and minister responsible for the Laval region.

About

CONSERVATION MANITOU is a registered charity and qualified recipient of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program. Its mission is to preserve and protect the ecosystem and natural environment of Lake Manitou and its surroundings, by acquiring land and conservation easements, either donated or purchased, and providing stewardship in perpetuity. In the Laurentians, this organization is a conservation leader, preserving approximately 1,387 acres of natural areas within the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Ste-Agathe-des-Monts and Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carré. To learn more or donate, please visit : www.conservationmanitou.ca

The “Projet de partenariat pour les milieu naturels” (PPMN) comes from a 53 million dollar grant issued by the provincial government’s Ministère de l’Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques (MELCC) to the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) over four years. By establishing financial partnerships with conservation groups across the province, the program provides support to voluntary conservation initiatives in order to protect natural areas of high interest. In short, the PPMN helps develop and consolidate Quebec’s network of protected areas found on private lands.

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Notice of Annual General Meeting - June 27th, 2020

Dear Members, Partners and Friends,

The board of directors of CONSERVATION MANITOU will be holding its 7th Annual Meeting of Members on Saturday, June 27, 2020 at 2PM at the Lake Manitou Community Center (LMCC) located at 40 Chemin du Vieux Club in Ivry-sur-le-Lac. In order to mitigate health risks due to the COVID 19 coronavirus, we are discouraging physical attendance at the meeting and encouraging members to send us their proxy as per attached Notice of Annual Meeting of Members. The Notice along with the 2019 Audited Financial Statements and Annual Report have been posted on our website at www.conservationmanitou.ca.

Highlights of the 7 years since our founding include: 

1- Raised $2.35 million in cash donations from over 180 members and received $3.6 million in land donations (eco-gifts) from 12 landowners.

2- Acquired 1,333 acres of eco-sensitive natural areas with 4,400 feet of shoreline on Lake Manitou and 2,500 feet of shoreline on Horseshoe Lake.

3- Rezoned 638 acres with the help of the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac and Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, and created 8 protected natural areas around Lake Manitou.

4- Partnered with Nature Conservancy of Canada in acquiring 541 acres to help maintain ecological connectivity in the greater region.

5- Grew the Stewardship Fund to $170,000 to help cover the ongoing carrying costs of our conservation lands.

6- Created an Environmental Protection Fund to help the Municipality of Ivry-sur-le-Lac defend its bylaws against the lawsuit launched by l’Association des pêcheurs sportifs du Québec.

7- Spearheaded the creation of the Ivry Wildlife Crossing, the first wildlife crossing in the Laurentians, in partnership with Nature Conservancy of Canada and Eco-corridors laurentiens. 

We managed to achieve the above with the generous support of our members and partners such as Nature Action Quebec, Echo Foundation, and Fondation de la Faune.                               

Our conservation efforts, which include ongoing stewardship of our acquired lands, depend on your continued financial support.

Our most sincere thanks to all those who are helping us Preserve the Future Together !

Stephen Takacsy, Chair

David McAusland, Vice-Chair

Kim Holden, Secretary-Treasurer

Michael Prupas

Matt Stotland

Delphine Favorel

 AGM Notice with Proxy Form

Conservation Manitou - Financial Statements 2019

Conservation Manitou - Annual Report 2019

Conservation Manitou - AGM Presentation (June 27th, 2020)

Conservation Manitou - 2019 Annual Report

Dear members and friends,

 Following its busiest year ever, Conservation Manitou positioned itself in 2019 as an important player in Quebec’s conservation scene by playing a key role in establishing  the first wildlife crossing in the Laurentians. Having secured an option to acquire 66 acres at the entrance of the tunnel passing under highway 117 in Ivry-sur-le-Lac, we partnered with Nature Conservancy of Canada who raised the necessary funding to purchase this strategic parcel and Eco-corridors laurentiens who installed cameras in the tunnel. In August, we held a press conference with other members of the consortium announcing the creation of the Ivry Wildlife Crossing in the presence of Quebec’s Minister of the Environment and the Fight against Climate Change.

To be sure, our focus is on protecting the watershed of Lake Manitou and its surroundings, however widening our scope and working with like-minded organizations is proving to be highly beneficial to our mission.  We are raising more awareness for conservation in the broader community and expanding our donor base to neighboring areas such as Valdurn and lac Merisier. Thanks to our success, we are now at the center of one the most important environmental initiatives in the Laurentians:  the creation of a wildlife corridor to preserve ecological connectivity in the greater region. With the fight against climate change top of mind, we are doing our part by now protecting 1,330 acres of Earth’s most important eco-assets: forests and wetlands.

Conservation Manitou continues fundraising efforts to endow its Stewardship Fund which grew by $36,000 to $170,000. We are still short of our minimum target of $250,000 and need your help so that we can generate sufficient annual income to cover the carrying costs of our conservation lands. We also need your help to acquire other eco-sensitive areas we have identified and encourage landowners to engage with us while government funding is available. As always, we are grateful to our members and hope to see you at our 7th Annual Members Meeting to be held Saturday June 27 at 2pm at a location to be determined.

Please find attached Conservation Manitou Annual Report - 2019

CONSERVATION MANITOU Expands Hanging Rock – Barker Lake Reserve

May 19, 2020 (Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Quebec) – CONSERVATION MANITOU is pleased to announce that it has purchased an additional 3 acres of forested land directly adjacent to its Hanging Rock – Barker Lake Reserve which now totals approximately 51 acres. This land was acquired from Stuart Barker. CONSERVATION MANITOU now has 1,333 acres of natural areas under its protection.

As a reminder, CONSERVATION MANITOU is still fundraising to endow its Stewardship Fund with $250,000 to generate a steady income to cover the ongoing carrying costs of its conservation lands.

Donations can be made by cheque payable to CONSERVATION MANITOU at:
1800 McGill College Avenue, suite 2102, Montreal, Quebec H3A 3J6
or online at: https://www.conservationmanitou.ca/en/donate/ 

CONSERVATION MANITOU is a registered charity and qualified recipient of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program. Its mission is to preserve and protect the ecosystem and natural environment of Lake Manitou and its surroundings, by acquiring land and conservation easements, either donated or purchased, and providing stewardship in perpetuity. It is one of the leading organizations dedicated to the preservation of natural areas in the Laurentians with 1,333 acres of conservation lands under ownership located in the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Ste-Agathe-des-Monts and Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carré.

CONSERVATION MANITOU Helps Create the First Wildlife Crossing in the Laurentians

CONSERVATION MANITOU Helps Create the First Wildlife Crossing in the Laurentians

August 19, 2019 (Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Quebec) – CONSERVATION MANITOU is pleased to announce that it played a key role in helping to create the first wildlife crossing in the Laurentians by securing 66 acres (27 hectares) of land at the entrance of a tunnel passing under highway 117 in Ivry-sur-le-Lac. Thanks to steps undertaken by CONSERVATION MANITOU, this property will be called the Ivry Wildlife Crossing and will be protected in perpetuity by Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC). Other partners involved in the project include Eco-Corridors Laurentians, MRC des Laurentides, P’tit Train du Nord Linear Park Corporation, Woodcock Foundation, Trans Canada Trail, Fondation de la Faune and Hydro Quebec.

“I am very proud that the Ivry Wildlife Crossing has become a reality” stated Stephen Takacsy, president of CONSERVATION MANITOU during a press conference today attended by Quebec’s Minister of the Environment and the Fight against Climate Change. ”Three years ago, we were exploring ways to connect the natural areas protected by CONSERVATION MANITOU on the south side of highway 117 with those protected by the NCC on the north side. The municipality of Ivry-sur-le-Lac and its residents have been leaders in environmental protection for generations, and Ivry’s strategic location for the creation of an ecological corridor makes it an ideal place for the first wildlife crossing in the Laurentians.”

“Connectivity projects such as the Ivry Wildlife Crossing help consolidate the ecological network in the Laurentians and allow regional conservation initiatives to expand their reach.” adds Stephen Takacsy. “CONSERVATION MANITOU’s main goal is to protect Lake Manitou and its watershed which have high ecological value. Complementary projects help achieve a more global objective of protecting our natural heritage. They also attract public and private funding into the area which ads value to our natural capital.”

CONSERVATION MANITOU continues fundraising efforts to endow its Stewardship Fund with $250,000 from which it can generate income to pay the ongoing carrying costs of its conservation lands. Donations can be made online at https://www.conservationmanitou.ca/en/donate/ or by cheque payable to CONSERVATION MANITOU mailed to 1800 McGill College Avenue, suite 2102, Montreal, Quebec H3A 3J6.

CONSERVATION MANITOU is a registered charity and qualified recipient of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program. Its mission is to preserve and protect the ecosystem and natural environment of Lake Manitou and its surroundings, and provide stewardship in perpetuity. It is one of the leading organizations dedicated to the preservation of natural areas in the Laurentians with approximately 1,330 acres (538 hectares) of conservation lands under ownership located in the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Ste-Agathe-des-Monts and Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carré.

Conservation Manitou - 2018 Annual Report

The board of directors of CONSERVATION MANITOU cordially invites you to celebrate our busiest year ever by joining us for the 6th Annual Meeting of Members to be held Saturday, May 18, 2019 at 2PM at the Ivry-sur-le-Lac town hall. We are also proud to present you our 2018 Annual Report attached (see below).

Since our founding 6 years ago, we successfully:

1- Raised $2.25 million in cash donations from over 170 members and received $3.6 million in land donations (eco-gifts) from 12 landowners.

2- Acquired 1,330 acres of eco-sensitive natural areas with 4,400 feet of shoreline on Lake Manitou and 2,500 feet of shoreline on Horseshoe Lake.

3- Rezoned 638 acres with the help of the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac and Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, and created 8 protected natural areas around Lake Manitou.

4- Partnered with Nature Conservancy of Canada in acquiring 541 acres to help maintain ecological connectivity in the greater region.

5- Grew the Stewardship Fund to $136,000 to help cover the ongoing carrying costs of our conservation lands.

6- Created an Environmental Protection Fund to help the Municipality of Ivry-sur-le-Lac defend its bylaws against the lawsuit launched by l’Association des pêcheurs sportifs du Québec and formed a special committee with AALM and the municipality to continue closely monitoring this very serious threat to the health of Lake Manitou. 

Together we have accomplished these results with the strong support of our members and partners such as Nature Action Quebec, Echo Foundation, and Fondation de la Faune.                               

Our conservation efforts, which include ongoing stewardship of our acquired lands, depend on your continued support.

Thank you to all who are helping us Preserve the Future Together !

CONSERVATION MANITOU Acquires 103 acres in Lake Manitou’s Watershed

 

CONSERVATION MANITOU Acquires 103 acres in Lake Manitou’s Watershed

November 30, 2018 (Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Quebec) – CONSERVATION MANITOU is pleased to announce that it has completed the acquisition of an additional 103 acres of forest and wetlands within Lake Manitou’s watershed. Approximately 80 acres were donated by Aaron Remer under Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program, while 23 acres were acquired from Elizabeth Barker. CONSERVATION MANITOU now has 1,330 acres of natural areas under its protection.

“We thank Aaron Deborah for their generous land donation which will help us preserve eco-sensitive areas and maintain our historic trail network on the east side of Lake Manitou” comments Stephen Takacsy, Chair of CONSERVATION MANITOU. “As well, we purchased a significant wetland known as Barker Lake and a beautiful ridge with a trail connecting our Hanging Rock and Horseshoe Lake properties. We thank Fondation de la Faune du Québec, Echo Foundation and several of our loyal donors for their financial support in helping us acquire this important property.”  

As a reminder, CONSERVATION MANITOU is still fundraising to endow its Stewardship Fund with $250,000 from which it can generate a steady income to pay the ongoing carrying costs of its conservation lands.

                             Donations can be made by cheque payable to CONSERVATION MANITOU at:

1800 McGill College Avenue, suite 2102, Montreal, Quebec H3A 3J6

or online at: https://www.conservationmanitou.ca/en/donate/

CONSERVATION MANITOU is a registered charity and qualified recipient of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program. Its mission is to preserve and protect the ecosystem and natural environment of Lake Manitou and its surroundings, by acquiring land and conservation easements, either donated or purchased, and providing stewardship in perpetuity. It is one of the leading organizations dedicated to the preservation of natural areas in the Laurentians with approximately 1,330 acres of conservation lands under ownership located in the municipalities of Ivry-sur-le-Lac, Ste-Agathe-des-Monts and Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carré.  

www.conservationmanitou.ca

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Delphine Favorel - Joseph Graham - Kim Holden - David McAusland

Michael Prupas – Matt Stotland – Stephen Takacsy

Registered Charity No.:  831460936RR000