MPP Norm Miller helps launch Muskoka Stewardship Program thanks to OTF Grant

The Muskoka Heritage Foundation officially launched the new Muskoka Stewardship Program on Saturday, thanks to a grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). Parry Sound-Muskoka MPP, Norm Miller joined OTF representative Teri Souter in congratulating the Muskoka Heritage Foundation at the launch ceremony.

“The grant provided to the Muskoka Stewardship Program will help promote and protect the natural beauty of property in Muskoka,” said MPP Miller. “This voluntary approach allows landowners the freedom to choose how to care for their lands, with the option of asking for planning advice. Overall, this program will increase the natural value of property and will offer another unique characteristic to the landscape of Muskoka.”

{ OTF Plaque Presentation, from L-R: Rebecca Francis, Stewardship Coordinator, MPP Norm Miller, Muskoka Heritage Foundation President Dan Brooks, OTF representative Teri Souter}

{Group Shot with Master Steward volunteers from L-R: MPP Norm Miller, Matt Dodds, Paula Jackson, Jim Griffin, Rebecca Francis, Ariel Zwicker, Teri Souter, Dan Brooks}

The Stewardship Program is unique in that it encourages neighbours to help neighbours and empowers local volunteers to engage in their community. “The Muskoka Stewardship program exists to encourage private land stewardship. We want to help you to get to know your land better!” said Rebecca Francis, Stewardship Program Coordinator.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation is an agency of the Government of Ontario. The Foundation allocates grants to eligible charitable and not-for-profit organizations in the arts and culture, environment, human and social services and sports and recreation sectors.

Program Launch

Join us for the official launch of the Muskoka Stewardship Program!

WHO: MPP Norm Miller will join Teri Souter of the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).

WHAT: To showcase the program and officially present Muskoka Heritage Foundation with our OTF plaque.

WHEN: Saturday, May 15th, 2010.

WHERE: The Bracebridge office of the Ministry of Natural Resources. Highway 11 at High Falls Road. The event coincides with the Annual Native Plant Sale put on by Muskoka Heritage Foundation.

I will also be showcasing the program and with photos from the workshop, program materials, and resources. Many of the Master Stewards will also be there to meet you. Come and say hello and learn more about property visits and land stewardship in Muskoka!

Hope to see you there!
Rebecca