By Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Watershed Stewardship Awards celebrated another year of environmental excellence, bringing together community members, conservation leaders, and local landowners at Area 8 Conservation Area. Hosted by Conservation Halton in partnership with the Hamilton Conservation Authority, the annual Watershed Stewards Appreciation Day recognized individuals, organizations, and businesses who have shown outstanding commitment to protecting and restoring natural features on their properties.
The awards began in May 1994 to honour landowners across the Halton and Hamilton regions for their efforts in maintaining and enhancing watershed health. Since their inception, more than 300 landowners have been recognized for their contributions to preserving meadows, wetlands, streams, woodlands, and other natural spaces — collectively protecting over 13,400 acres of land.
This year, nine landowners received the Watershed Stewardship Award, with four recipients recognized within Conservation Halton’s watershed. Among them was 407 ETR, which received the Corporate Environmental Leadership Award for its ongoing support of habitat restoration and the creation of pollinator-friendly spaces along its highway corridor. Oakville’s Karen Brock was honoured for Community and Rural Stewardship, celebrating her decade-long dedication as a volunteer with Oakville Green, where she continues to inspire local residents to take action for nature.
Ashley Elliott received the Cootes to Escarpment and Urban Stewardship Award for her efforts to restore natural balance on her property, part of the Cootes to Escarpment EcoPark System. By removing invasive species and creating rain gardens to manage runoff, Elliott’s work supports the health of interconnected watersheds. Andrews Scenic Acres was recognized for Agricultural Stewardship, showcasing how sustainable farming practices, like cover cropping and windbreaks, can nurture both productivity and environmental care.
“Local landowners play a vital role in our collective efforts to maintain healthy watersheds and vibrant ecosystems,” said Chandra Sharma, president and CEO of Conservation Halton. “We appreciate all the efforts of this year’s award recipients in restoring damaged ecosystems, enhancing community resilience, and creating more spaces where wildlife can thrive.”
What began over three decades ago as a small initiative to encourage land stewardship has grown into a legacy of environmental responsibility. The Watershed Stewardship Awards continue to highlight how everyday actions by individuals and organizations can have a lasting impact on the land and water that sustain our communities.
