The Ontario government is investing $12 million over the next three years to support the Greenbelt Foundation and its ongoing work to protect, promote, and improve the Greenbelt in the Golden Horseshoe region.
The projects delivered through this funding will focus on maintaining and enhancing green infrastructure, planting trees to increase natural cover, and enhancing recreational opportunities for people to experience nature.
“The Greenbelt is an important part of our province consisting of farmland, forests, wetlands and watersheds,” said Jeff Yurek, minister of the environment, conservation and parks. “It’s important to support the ongoing work of the Greenbelt Foundation so it can protect and enhance this vital area—for the benefit of Ontarians today and for future generations.”
The investment will enable the Greenbelt Foundation to continue its work by offering grants, supporting research, and providing information, knowledge, and awareness about the Greenbelt. The funding will support the delivery of four key programs:
- Research to improve knowledge and understanding of the Greenbelt and its benefits.
- Developing partnerships with community groups and organizations to help support projects that protect and restore the Greenbelt.
- Public outreach to increase knowledge, awareness, and understanding of the Greenbelt, and its social, rural economic, and recreational opportunities.
- Funding for projects and activities such as native tree, shrub and other vegetation plantings to increase natural cover, along with projects that create opportunities to experience the Greenbelt.
“The Greenbelt Foundation welcomes funding from the Government of Ontario and will invest in projects, programs, and outreach initiatives that encourage people to engage with, experience, and enjoy everything the Greenbelt region has to offer,” said Edward McDonnell, CEO of the Greenbelt Foundation. “We look forward to working with the Province and our partners to build on previous work and successes and ensure the Greenbelt’s natural and agricultural landscapes remain protected and continue to support thriving communities and rural economies.”
