When we first walked this land in 1984, many saw only an “abandoned farm”—a place where the soil had grown tired and the winds had taken more than they gave. But where others saw refuse, we saw a profound opportunity to listen, to plant, and to heal.

Restoring this land has been a lesson in patience. We started by planting thousands of tiny spruce and pine seedlings into the sand and gravel, hoping they would take hold. Over the last forty-two years, we have watched with awe as nature responded. The “pioneer” trees we planted created the shelter needed for maples, ashes and oaks to return on their own. The birds followed, the wildlife moved back, and the air changed.

Gamiing Nature Centre was born from the belief that humans should not just be observers of nature, but active partners in its recovery. By placing this land in trust with the Kawartha Heritage Conservancy (later Kawartha Land Trust), we have ensured that this story doesn’t end with us. This forest will remain a classroom, a sanctuary, and a reminder that even the most “exhausted” land can be brought back to life if treated with respect and intention.

We invite you to walk these trails not just as a visitor, but as a guest of the Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg territory. Take a deep breath, listen to the wind in the pines, and know that you are part of a story of renewal that will continue for generations to come.

With gratitude,  
Chi Miigwetch  The Gamiing Nature Centre Team

• • Donate:Your financial support goes directly toward trail maintenance, invasive species management, and our educational programming. Every dollar helps protect this 100-acre “living classroom.”
  • Volunteer:From trail clearing and tree planting to helping with community workshops, your time is our most valuable resource.
  • Become a Supporter:Join a community of nature lovers and receive updates on our seasonal events and workshops.
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• $25helps maintain one kilometer of trail for the season.
• $50supports the planting of native species to enhance natural succession.
• $100funds a cultural or environmental workshop or adventure for local youth.

“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.” Support Gamiing today to protect it for tomorrow.

Get Involved: Visit www.gamiing.org/get-involved to donate or sign up for our volunteer newsletter.

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• The trails you walk today—from the rocky ridges to the tranquil cedar groves—are protected forever because people like you decided to take action. Gamiing Nature Centre is more than just a place to hike; it is a living classroom and a sanctuary for local wildlife.
• The Conservation Easement held by the Kawartha Land Trust ensures that this land will never be turned into a housing development, but we need your help to keep these trails accessible and the ecosystems healthy.