Win Big and Support Nature! NPCF 50/50 Raffle Launches with the Ball's Falls Thanksgiving Festival

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation (NPCF) is excited to announce the launch of its 50/50 Raffle for Nature in celebration of the Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival. This year, every raffle ticket purchased gives you the chance to win big while directly supporting local conservation efforts in the Niagara Peninsula watershed. 

How It Works: 
The raffle is open now, with ticket sales ending on October 23 at 11:59 p.m. The winner will take home 50% of total ticket sales. The draw is set for October 24. 

Proceeds from the raffle will help protect Niagara’s natural spaces, restore vital habitats, plant trees to cool communities, improve access to green spaces for all, and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. 

Why Support Nature? 
The Niagara Peninsula watershed is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes - from its iconic falls to lush forests, thriving ecosystems, and winding trails. These natural areas aren’t just beautiful - they are the lifeblood of healthy communities, purifying air and water, and supporting ecosystems. 

As our communities grow, we face challenges like invasive species, climate change, and more. By participating in this raffle, you’re directly contributing to protecting and preserving the natural beauty and vital ecosystems of the Niagara Peninsula watershed. 

Ticket Options & Pricing: 

• 5 tickets for $10 

• 25 tickets for $25 

• 100 tickets for $50 

• 500 tickets for $100 

Where & When to Buy: 
Tickets are available online now at npcf5050.ca and will also be sold at the Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival. The raffle closes on October 23 at 11:59 p.m., with the draw taking place on October 24. 

 Licence No. RAF1501867. Please play responsibly. 

Every Ticket Is a Win for Nature 
With each ticket purchase; you’re helping protect the Niagara Peninsula watershed’s ecosystems while giving yourself a chance to win half of the growing jackpot! The more tickets sold, the larger the prize. 

Important Notes: 

• Tickets are sold online only - no physical tickets will be issued. 

• In accordance with Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) regulations, participants must be 18 years or older and reside in Ontario at the time of purchase. Geolocation technology will verify eligibility. 

Support Local Nature & Win Big 
Join the movement to protect Niagara Peninsula watershed’s natural spaces by purchasing your 50/50 raffle tickets today! Share the love for nature, spread the word, and make an impact. 

For more information and to buy tickets, visit npcf5050.ca. 

Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival 

One of Ontario’s top 100 Events in 2025, the 51st annual Thanksgiving Festival at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area is just around the corner. This beloved community event happening over Thanksgiving weekend is a must-attend celebration of family traditions, heritage, culture, and the stunning natural beauty of the Niagara Escarpment. Whether you are shopping for unique artisanal goods, enjoying delicious local food, or experiencing exciting live entertainment, there is something for everyone to enjoy.  

Festival Schedule Now Available Online  
For full details on the event schedule and performances, including musical acts, heritage tours, and family-friendly activities, visit the official website at thanksgivingfestival.ca.  

Tickets are on sale now at thanksgivingfestival.ca and are available for advance purchase.  

• General Admission: $11.75 (Ages 12+)  

• Seniors: $8.75 (Ages 65+)  

• Children: $8.75 (Ages 3–11)   

Attending the Festival is more than just an experience, it supports vital conservation projects. $1 from every general admission ticket sold will go to Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation. Your presence helps fund efforts to protect local ecosystems, driving positive change, and ensuring nature thrives. 

—30—       

About Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority:       

As a community-based natural resource management agency, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority envisions a healthy and vibrant natural environment with shared greenspace and clean water for all. NPCA’s work supports the conservation, enhancement, and sustainability of healthy watersheds with programs and services that focus on drinking water source protection, flood and hazard management, ecosystem restoration, community stewardship, education, and land management.       

NPCA is the caretaker of 43 conservation areas within the Niagara Peninsula watershed held in public trust for recreation, heritage preservation, conservation, and education. These natural and shared greenspaces marry nature, culture, and adventure to create limitless opportunities for discovery.       

About NPCF:      

Founded in 1969, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation (NPCF) is a registered charity governed by a volunteer Board of Directors dedicated to raising funds that support the conservation of our natural environment for present and future generations. When you donate to the Foundation (NPCF), you help fund conservation projects and programs that contribute to improve water quality, increase green spaces, and environmental research and education.     

To learn more, please visit:  npcf.ca    

Follow on Instagram, Facebook,  and LinkedIn for more updates.     

Media inquiries to be directed to:     
Jennifer McQuillan, Communications and Marketing Specialist    
Mobile: 905-933-0532     
jmcquillan@npca.ca   

Land to Legacy Event Inspires Action to Protect Niagara Peninsula Watershed

Niagara Region, ON – The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation’s Land to Legacy event, hosted last night at the Centre for Conservation at Ball's Falls Conservation Area, brought together conservation leaders, community advocates, members of the business community, and nature enthusiasts committed to protecting the future of the Niagara Peninsula watershed. The event was a resounding success, inspiring attendees to take action in support of local conservation efforts.   

The highlight of the evening was the keynote address by Adam Shoalts, acclaimed naturalist, author, and Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation (NPCF) board member. Shoalts shared powerful personal stories of his childhood growing up in the Niagara Peninsula watershed, explaining how they shaped his career as an explorer and his deep commitment to environmental protection.    

"Preserving forests, wetlands and other natural heritage is essential to our quality of life. It's not just about the natural beauty of these places, though that is important, it's also about ensuring the continuation of the benefits we derive from nature every day: clean water, fresh air, and of course places to escape to when we need a break from the daily grind and the hustle and bustle of modern life," Shoalts shared. "The time to act is definitely now, so that we can secure a better, greener future for generations to come in Niagara."   

The event also featured Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) staff experts who discussed the ongoing efforts to acquire, protect and restore key ecological lands across the Niagara Peninsula watershed. Attendees learned about NPCA’s innovative land securement strategy, which aims to safeguard the watershed’s most vital ecosystems from habitat loss and climate change.  The NPCF’s Nature for All for Always fundraising campaign helps to support the impactful work of the conservation authority. 

Invited guests enjoyed local food and wine, networking, and fostering connections with individuals who are passionate about preserving the natural world. The event also highlighted the vital role of community collaboration in achieving conservation goals.   

Join us in the collective effort to protect and preserve the future of the Niagara Peninsula watershed, ensuring its vitality for generations to come.    

Learn more about land planning and acquisition.  

Learn more about how you can make a difference.  

QUOTES  

"We are thrilled with the turnout and the energy that was shared by everyone in attendance. The support and enthusiasm for our conservation initiatives are a powerful reminder that we are not alone in this effort. With the continued dedication of people like Adam Shoalts and all those who attended yesterday’s event, we are one step closer to securing the future of the watershed.” – NPCF Chair, Brett Harrington.  

“Last night’s Land to Legacy event was a true reflection of what’s possible when passionate people come together around a shared purpose. We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended - your presence speaks volumes about the collective will to protect the Niagara Peninsula watershed for future generations. Events like this are more than just conversations; they are catalysts for collaboration, where every voice at the table contributes to shaping a legacy of conservation.” – Leilani Lee-Yates, NPCA CAO  

—30—      

About Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority:      

As a community-based natural resource management agency, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority envisions a healthy and vibrant natural environment with shared greenspace and clean water for all. NPCA’s work supports the conservation, enhancement, and sustainability of healthy watersheds with programs and services that focus on drinking water source protection, flood and hazard management, ecosystem restoration, community stewardship, education, and land management.      

NPCA is the caretaker of 43 conservation areas within the Niagara Peninsula watershed held in public trust for recreation, heritage preservation, conservation, and education. These natural and shared greenspaces marry nature, culture, and adventure to create limitless opportunities for discovery.      

About NPCF:     

Founded in 1969, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation (NPCF) is a registered charity governed by a volunteer Board of Directors dedicated to raising funds that support the conservation of our natural environment for present and future generations. When you donate to the Foundation (NPCF), you help fund conservation projects and programs that contribute to improve water quality, increase green spaces, and environmental research and education.    

To learn more, please visit:  npcf.ca   

Follow on Instagram, Facebook,  and LinkedIn for more updates.    

Media inquiries to be directed to:    
Jennifer McQuillan, Communications and Marketing Specialist   
Mobile: 905-933-0532    
jmcquillan@npca.ca  

Investing in the Future - NPCF Awards 2025 Education Bursaries to Six Conservation Students

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation (NPCF) is thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of the 2025 Conservation Education Bursary event, held yesterday at the Ball's Falls Centre for Conservation. Six exceptional students from across the Niagara Peninsula watershed were honoured as this year’s bursary recipients, each receiving a $500 award to support their post-secondary education in environment-related fields.  

The award ceremony was a celebration of these students' dedication to environmental stewardship. Following cheque presentations, the students enjoyed a guided hike of the Ball's Falls Conservation Area, providing them with a meaningful connection to the natural world as they prepare to further their studies this September.  

"It was an inspiring day as we celebrated these exceptional young leaders, whose dedication to environmental stewardship gives us great hope for the future," said Brett Harrington, NPCF Board Chair. "The Education Bursary reflects our commitment to collaboration - with communities, educators, and partners - to support the next generation of conservation champions. By investing in their education, we are helping to spark ideas, ignite passion, and inspire lasting change for our natural world." 

The NPCF Conservation Education Bursary, established with the support of the Fort Erie Conservation Women's Auxiliary, supports select students from across the Niagara Peninsula watershed who are pursuing careers in conservation, environment, forestry, natural resources, and wildlife management. This year’s recipients were selected from a highly competitive group of applicants who demonstrated outstanding commitment and potential in their chosen fields. 

-30-   

About NPCF:   

Founded in 1969, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation (NPCF) is a registered charity governed by a volunteer Board of Directors dedicated to raising funds that support the conservation of our natural environment for present and future generations. When you donate to the Foundation (NPCF), you help fund conservation projects and programs that contribute to improve water quality, increase green spaces, and environmental research and education.  

To learn more, please visit:  npcf.ca 

Follow on Instagram, Facebook,  and LinkedIn for more updates.  

Media inquiries to be directed to: 

Jennifer McQuillan, Communications & Marketing Specialist 

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority 

Mobile: 905.933.0532 

Email: jmcquillan@npca.ca 

Questions related to the education bursary to be directed to: 

Sharon Pfeifer, Development & Investor Relations 

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation 

Phone: 905.788.3135 ext. 434 

Email: spfeifer@npcf.ca 

Accessible Mat Installation Improves Accessibility at Chippawa Creek Conservation Area

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation (NPCF) is excited to announce a new addition to Chippawa Creek Conservation Area aimed at improving access for all visitors. Thanks to a generous donation from Jungbunzlauer Ltd. and continued partnership with Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA), an accessible pathway has been installed to make the area more accessible to individuals with mobility challenges, families with strollers, and others seeking easier access to the water’s edge.

This project represents a significant step in NPCA’s ongoing efforts to enhance inclusivity and ensure that people of all abilities can experience the beauty of nature. The non-slip accessible mat provides a safe, easy-to-navigate path that opens new opportunities for community members to connect with the natural environment.

“We are deeply grateful to our partners for their support in making this project happen,” said NPCF’s Sharon Pfeifer, Development & Investor Relations. “This initiative aligns with our commitment to creating better access for people of all abilities, and with our goal of promoting wellness, inclusion and environmental stewardship. It’s an impactful way to ensure that all individuals can enjoy our beautiful natural spaces.”

 NPCF exists to support the important work of NPCA, raising funds to:

• plant more trees

• protect more land

• create more access to green space

• provide more education to inspire the green leaders of tomorrow

“When we learned of the need for an accessibility mat at Chippawa Creek Conservation Area, we jumped at the chance to support it. Jungbunzlauer is committed to our community, to promoting well-being and inclusion, and we are proud to partner with NPCF in helping people of all abilities enjoy nature.”  - Mike Smith, CFO, JBL Canada

Join Us in Making a Difference
NPCF invites others to get involved and support similar initiatives. Your donation can make a direct impact on natural spaces within the Niagara Peninsula watershed and help achieve the vision of Nature for All, for Always.

For more information on our funding priorities or how you can contribute, please visit npcf.ca or contact Sharon Pfeifer, Development & Investor Relations.

-30-

About NPCF:  

Founded in 1969, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation is a registered charity, governed by a volunteer Board of Directors dedicated to raising funds that aid in the conservation of our natural environment for present and future generations.  

When you donate to the NPCF, you help support conservation projects and programs that contribute to improving our water quality, increasing greenspaces, and environmental research and education.  

Connect with NPCF today to explore opportunities for creating your own natural legacy: foundation@npca.ca.   

About NPCA:  

As a community-based natural resource management agency, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority envisions a healthy and vibrant natural environment with shared greenspace and clean water for all.  

NPCA’s work supports the conservation, enhancement and sustainability of healthy watersheds with programs and services that focus on drinking water source protection, flood and hazard management, ecosystem restoration, community stewardship, education, and land management.  

NPCA is the caretaker of 43 conservation areas within the Niagara Peninsula watershed held in public trust for recreation, heritage preservation, conservation and education. These natural and shared greenspaces marry nature, culture and adventure to create limitless opportunities for discovery.  

To learn more, please visit: www.npca.ca. 

Follow on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn for more updates.  

Media inquiries to be directed to:  
Jennifer McQuillan, Communications and Marketing Specialist  
Mobile: 905-933-0532  
jmcquillan@npca.ca  

NPCF Announces New Leadership at AGM

At its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, May 29, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation (NPCF) board of directors elected new Officers.  

Brett Harrington has been appointed as the new Chair, taking over from Barbara Greenwood. Harrington moved up from his previous role as Vice-Chair; member Doug Wilson has been appointed as the new Vice-Chair. 

The AGM not only marked this important leadership change but also highlighted a decade of the Comfort Maple Pen, a symbol of conservation and heritage within the community.  

As the new Chair, Brett Harrington expressed his enthusiasm for NPCF’s future initiatives: “It is an honour to step into this role, continuing the Foundation’s critical work in preserving our natural spaces and supporting conservation efforts across the Niagara Peninsula watershed.” 

Doug Wilson, Vice Chair, added: “I look forward to contributing to the Foundation’s long-standing tradition of community engagement and conservation partnerships. Together, we can make a lasting impact.” 

Donna Cridland rounded out the leadership team, continuing in her role as Treasurer for a third year.  

NPCF’s focus for 2025 includes expanding tree planting initiatives, increasing land protection efforts, enhancing community engagement, and developing new partnerships to further conservation goals.  

The NPCF would like to extend heartfelt thanks to its donors and partners, whose continued support ensures the success of conservation programs and community-driven projects. 

For more information on the NPCF, please visit www.npcf.ca. Follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for more updates.  

-30-  

About NPCF:    

Founded in 1969, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation is a registered charity, governed by a volunteer Board of Directors dedicated to raising funds that aid in the conservation of our natural environment for present and future generations.    

Donations to NPCF help support NPCA projects and programs that improve our water quality, increase greenspaces, restore wetland and habitat, and support environmental research and education.     

About NPCA:    

As a community-based natural resource management agency, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority envisions a healthy and vibrant natural environment with shared greenspace and clean water for all.    

NPCA’s work supports the conservation, enhancement and sustainability of healthy watersheds with programs and services that focus on drinking water source protection, flood and hazard management, ecosystem restoration, community stewardship, education, and land management.    

NPCA is the caretaker of 43 conservation areas within the Niagara Peninsula watershed held in public trust for recreation, heritage preservation, conservation and education. These natural and shared greenspaces marry nature, culture and adventure to create limitless opportunities for discovery.    

To learn more, please visit: www.npca.ca.   

Follow on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn for more updates.    

Media inquiries to be directed to:  

Jennifer McQuillan, Communications & Marketing Specialist 

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority  

Mobile: 905-933-0532 

jmcquillan@npca.ca   

Questions related to the above release should be directed to:  

Sharon Pfeifer, Development & Investor Relations  

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation  

905-788-3135 ext. 434   

spfeifer@npcf.ca   

NPCA BOARD CHAIR DONATES HONORARIUM TO CONSERVATION EFFORTS IN THE NIAGARA PENINSULA WATERSHED

In her second year serving as Chair of the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) Board of Directors, Brenda Johnson has donated her honorarium to the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation (NPCF) and Glanbrook Conservation Committee (GCC).

Chair Johnson’s donation of $6,891.53 will help fund programs that contribute to environmental research and education, improve water quality, increase green spaces, and restore wetlands and wildlife habitat.

“The importance of protecting greenspaces has never been more prominent in the minds of the watershed community,” says NPCF Board Chair, Tom Insinna. “Through the support of our community and individuals like Chair Johnson, we can continue to protect our important natural resources for present and future generations.”

This marks Chair Johnson’s second honorarium donation, and the fourth time she has contributed financially to conservation efforts while serving on the NPCA Board of Directors. In May 2019, her annual per diem sponsored the visit of a group of children from Eva Rothwell Centre to Binbrook Conservation Area. This donation made it possible for the group of aspiring anglers to experience the GCC’s Annual Spring Fishing Derby, which included transportation, lunch, and fishing gear.

“It is my sincere pleasure to donate this honorarium to the NPCF and GCC, which are two organizations that support the important work of the NPCA and share in the vision of a healthy and resilient Niagara Peninsula watershed,” adds Brenda Johnson, NPCA Board Chair. “As the representative of the City of Hamilton on the Conservation Authority Board, I am delighted to support the incredible efforts of groups like GCC at Binbrook Conservation Area.”

The GCC is a group of volunteers working to improve the habitat for wildlife in what was previously Glanbrook Township, now the City of Hamilton. The group includes, naturalists, environmentalists, bird watchers, hikers, canoeists, as well as fishermen and hunters. They have been active in the community for more than 30 years, accomplishing projects such as ongoing maintenance of the Tyneside Trail, installation of blue bird boxes and fish habitat cribs, invasive species identification and removal, hosting the annual Spring Fishing Derby and many more.

Donations to the NPCF will help connect great people with great causes and create partnerships across the watershed, seeking the most constructive solutions to conservation issues today. “We must all lead by example and remember that every donation, no matter how big or small, will help improve the watershed we call home,” adds Johnson.

For more information about the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation, visit www.niagaraconservationfoundation.com.