Next year, Muskoka Conservancy celebrates 40 years of coming together to care for Muskoka’s natural heritage. There’s a lot to celebrate—beginning with the Muskoka Heritage Foundation, founded in 1987 by a group led by George Snider who believed the region’s special places deserved lasting care.

That commitment grew into a broad community effort: protecting land, caring for watersheds, supporting stewardship, and helping people connect with the natural world. 

In 1996, the Muskoka Heritage Trust was established to protect land. In 2013, the Foundation and Trust joined together to become Muskoka Conservancy, bringing land protection, stewardship, education, and community outreach under one organization.

Celebrating Muskoka Conservancy's Success

Today, Muskoka Conservancy protects 62 properties encompassing 6,700 acres of land and 85,000 feet of shoreline. These places safeguard wetlands, forests, wildlife habitat, and the natural systems that help Muskoka meet challenges such as flooding, climate change, and development. 

Through trails and guided Nature Quest hikes, we also offer opportunities to experience and appreciate the landscapes we work to protect.

Our achievements are measured in more than acres. It’s the generations of donors, volunteers, landowners, staff, and community members whose care and generosity have made this work possible. Their stories—and the places they helped protect—will be at the heart of our anniversary.

As we celebrate our history, we’re also looking ahead. Our 10-year goal is to double the amount of land under our protection. That’s an ambitious next chapter, and one we can write together.

Throughout 2027, we’ll share stories from our past, recognize the people who shaped our journey, and celebrate the places that make Muskoka special. Thank you for being part of this community—and for helping protect Muskoka’s natural heritage for the next generation. Stay tuned!