Port Rowan, ON – On Friday, June 21, 2024, local MPP Bobbi Ann Brady met with representatives of the Long Point Biosphere Region (LPBR) in Port Rowan, Ontario to launch a new project to strengthen the organization’s capacities to support sustainable development, conservation programs, and outreach and outdoor education collaborations in Norfolk County. The project was made possible thanks to a $126,000 Resilient Communities fund grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).
“The Long Point Biosphere is an important connection between people and nature,” said Bobbi Ann Brady, MPP Haldimand—Norfolk. “This funding will help the committee better develop a strategy to deliver its mandate to enhance the ecosystem and community well-being while uniting people with nature.”
First awarded in January 2024, the grant will support transformation of the LPBR’s strategic plan and commencement of an organizational review. To this end, the LPBR has signed an agreement with the Georgian Bay Mnidoo Gamii Biosphere to draw on its “best in class” operating model and expertise in developing new partnerships, diversified funding sources, and stable program staffing systems.
“The Long Point Biosphere is one of Canada’s most important ecological areas with an exceptional agro-ecosystem,” said Biosphere Chair Tom Via. “The funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the help of partners like Birds Canada and the Georgian Bay Mnidoo Gamii Biosphere will make a vital contribution to our long-term planning which enables support of conservation and sustainable development in the region.”
The LPBR is a non-profit corporation with a mandate to promote the Long Point Biosphere Region. Bordering Lake Erie and extending to all of Norfolk County, the Biosphere is the region with the highest biodiversity in Canada as well as being home to over 200 species at risk, the world’s longest freshwater sand spit formation, and other unique natural settings.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like Long Point Biosphere deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure they remain at the heart of the community for decades to come.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
LPBR Contact for Media Inquiries: dick@longpointbiosphere.com