The Magnetawan Watershed Land Trust (MWLT) is excited to introduce a new initiative inspired by successful programs run by other Ontario land trusts — the Passport to Nature. This will be a year-long series of free, guided outdoor adventures designed to connect people of all ages with the natural beauty of the Magnetawan River watershed.
Through guided hikes, paddles, educational walks, and family-friendly events, participants will discover the rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and cultural significance of the area. Each event will showcase a different aspect of the watershed — from forests and wetlands to wildlife and local conservation efforts — giving participants a deeper understanding of why these lands are worth protecting.
The Passport to Nature program aims to strengthen the community’s connection to the land through engaging, hands-on experiences in nature. The program also focuses on sharing information about the land trust, species at risk, and other topics related to the watershed and environment. By showcasing the wonders of the watershed, MWLT hopes to inspire a lasting appreciation for conservation and a shared commitment to protecting these vital natural spaces for future generations.
The project would be completed July 31, 2027. The project will begin in January 2026 and continue for 18 months. This allows the project coordinator time to plan the program and then run it for a full year. However, the intent would be to establish this program and have it become a regular part of MWLT.
The Magnetawan River watershed is an essential part of our community’s identity — a vast and ecologically rich landscape covering over 1.4 million acres (602,000 hectares). Originating on the western slopes of Algonquin Provincial Park, the river flows nearly 200 kilometers through a network of lakes, tributaries, and waterfalls before reaching Georgian Bay. This remarkable watershed includes numerous municipalities and townships, home to both permanent and seasonal residents, and supported by many cottage and community associations.
Although the Magnetawan River watershed remains largely pristine, it does not fall under the protection of a Conservation Authority, making local conservation efforts especially vital. As development pressures and recreational use continue to grow, the need for awareness, education, and community involvement in protecting the watershed has never been greater.
That is why the Magnetawan Watershed Land Trust (MWLT) is launching the Passport to Nature program — a year-long series of free, guided outdoor adventures that invite people to explore, learn about, and connect with the watershed.
This program is important to our community because it:
• Strengthens the connection between residents, visitors, and the land, fostering a shared sense of responsibility for its care.
• Makes nature accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background, or experience level, by providing free and inclusive opportunities to explore the outdoors.
• Builds pride in the region’s natural heritage, helping people understand the ecological importance of our forests, wetlands, lakes, and rivers.
• Promotes physical and mental well-being through time spent in nature.
• Supports local tourism and small businesses, as events draw visitors to the area and encourage sustainable outdoor recreation.
• Brings the community together, creating opportunities for learning, collaboration, and stewardship.
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My friends and I love exploring the area! We are twenty and think the opportunity to learn more about the area would be great 🙂
What a terrific idea. This will spur community involvement and particularly engage children with the nature.
Please help the Magnetawan Watershed Land Trust help preserve the environment.
Please help MWLT protect the environment.
We kayak the river weekly. This project would be so important to our community!
Passport to Nature is a wonderful way to promote public education and support the protection of our natural heritage.