RIDEAU VALLEY, June 24, 2025 – The Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation completed several major capital projects and celebrated impactful program growth in 2024 thanks to the generosity of its funding partners, private donors and supporters.
The Foundation’s 2024 Annual Report highlights the opening of Baxter Conservation Area’s Accessible Bridge and Education Platforms. The 100-metre span includes two accessible platforms capable of welcoming entire classrooms to get up close and personal with the Baxter wetland. The bridge’s extra-wide deck, gentle slopes, wheelchair-friendly sightlines and bounce control are all part of the RVCF’s ongoing Nature For All campaign to transform the 80-hectare property a nature haven for people of all abilities.
To complement this new education infrastructure, the RVCF was also thrilled to raise more than $84,000 in support for outdoor education subsidies for schools, students, and families who face financial barriers, thanks to several grants and the generosity of individual donors, estate gifts and memorial donations. These subsidies ensure that all young people, regardless of their background, can connect with nature, learn about conservation and develop a lifelong appreciation for the environment.
Other 2024 highlights:
- Accepted an 80-hectare natural area including forests, lake shoreline and provincially significant wetland to be protected in perpetuity
- Launched Phase II fundraising for Nature For All in support of accessible boardwalks and trails
- Facilitated two Planned Giving workshops focused on estate planning and land donations, with support from Kelly Santini LLP and IG Wealth Management
- Installed a permanent Baxter Story Trail with support from TD Friends of the Environment Fund
- Supported community science, invasive species removal and garbage clean ups along Ottawa’s Graham Creek thanks to generous funding partners
- Managed 40 Species At Risk compensation projects for the unavoidable loss of butternut or barn swallow, bobolink and meadowlark habitat
“We are deeply grateful to our generous supporters, dedicated board members and hard-working staff who make this critical conservation work possible,” said RVCF board chair Andrew Harkness. “Protecting and restoring the Rideau Valley watershed is a group effort, and I’m heartened by the number of individuals, organizations and partners stepping up to ensure a sustainable and healthy future for everyone who calls this watershed home.”
Read the Foundation’s full 2024 annual report online or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to request a hard copy. You can also pick up a copy at 3889 Rideau Valley Dr. N in Manotick, Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Learn more about the Foundation and its mandate at www.rvcf.ca.
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