The Northumberland Land Trust (NLT) today announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding for the future acquisition of more than 57 acres of land. The property is being donated by John Apostolides who bought the property in 2006.
The Apostolides property is located in Roseneath within the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand. The forested portion of the property is identified as Significant Woodland in the Northumberland County Official Plan, highlighting its ecological importance within the region. The landscape features approximately 21 acres of regenerating forest composed of pine, spruce, oak, maple, elm, and ironwood, with a rich understory. Much of this woodland reflects the donor’s stewardship, with trees carefully planted and nurtured over many years.
“I have done my best to be environmentally progressive all my life,” said Mr. Apostolides. “This one gesture is probably more than my life’s contribution. A sobering thought.”
Roughly 30 acres of the property consist of open hayfields that provide important grassland habitat for wildlife, including species at risk such as the Bobolink. The property lies within the physiographic region known as the Peterborough Drumlin Field, and its highest point offers a scenic view overlooking Rice Lake. Approximately 3.2 acres of the property are classified as Regionally Significant Wetland, forming part of a larger cedar swamp that provides habitat for amphibians such as spring peepers, green frogs, and bullfrogs. A small spring-fed pond is located along the eastern edge of the property, contributing to the wetland’s hydrological diversity. There is a severance required for this property so that the donor may live adjacent to the nature reserve.
“Most land donors want to remain actively involved with the care of the property they have owned for so long,” added Rob Kennedy, President, Northumberland Land Trust. “John is no exception, and we look forward to him joining our Stewardship team.”
The NLT will apply to the Ecological Gifts program which could exempt the donation from any capital gains. Donations of land have tax implications and require an appraisal, severance, surveys, legal documents and township approval. Due to the size of this land donation, and the process cost the NLT approximately $40,000 not including ongoing stewardship costs. Donations are key to covering these expenses.
Donations are accepted at nltrust.ca or contact us at info@nltrust.ca or call: 416-220-6807.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
