September 25, 2026

Pictured from left to right in the unveiling photo are representatives of the past and present stewards of the site: Robert Sawatis from the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, Jim Brownell representing the Brownell family, Mayor Bryan McGillis from the Township

On September 23, 2026, alongside community partners, special guests, and volunteers, the Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) and the Township of South Stormont unveiled the official sign for the newly named Limestone Ridge Conservation Area – the RRCA’s first Conservation Area in South Stormont. The 105-acre natural space, which includes provincially significant wetland and forest habitat, was donated to the RRCA by the Township of South Stormont in 2024.

“This is a special day for the RRCA, the Township of South Stormont, and our entire region,” said RRCA Chair and North Glengarry Councillor Jacques Massie. “RRCA Conservation Areas are places where nature is protected for the benefit of our watersheds, communities, and biodiversity. We are honoured by the duty to take care of this 105-acre site we now call Limestone Ridge.”

The name Limestone Ridge reflects the area's centuries-long connection to limestone extraction and was chosen through a public vote before being formally endorsed by both the Township of South Stormont Council and the RRCA Board.

“We’re thrilled to know that this natural space will be preserved,” said South Stormont Mayor and RRCA Board member Bryan McGillis. “With its accessible location, important habitat, and eco-tourism potential, Limestone Ridge Conservation Area is sure to be enjoyed for generations.”

The RRCA is currently undertaking restoration and enhancement activities at the site, including invasive species removal and tree planting.

“While the Conservation Area is not yet ready for public access, the next phase of the project includes exploring the development of a trail system, creating a Conservation Area master plan, and providing further opportunities for public consultation and community input,” said RRCA Acting General Manager Lisa Van De Ligt.

The RRCA currently conserves and maintains more than 2,000 acres of environmentally significant land, including three publicly accessible Conservation Areas. These lands help protect ecologically sensitive habitat, strengthen regional tree cover, maintain green infrastructure for flood resilience, and provide opportunities for recreation and eco-tourism. Together, the RRCA's Conservation Areas offer 20 km of nature trails, available year-round at no cost.

For more information, visit rrca.on.ca/Limestone or contact the RRCA at (613) 938-3611 or info@rrca.on.ca.