The Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust (MMLT) is a conservation organization taking direct action to legally protect and steward ecologically sensitive lands across the Mississippi River watershed, north to the Madawaska River. Some of their properties are open to the public to enjoy the trails and nature, while others are reserved for research and educational purposes. As 2025 draws to a close, President Steve Kotze shares his thoughts with MMLT friends, members, and potential supporters.

Dear friend of MMLT,

As we approach the end of 2025, I wanted to celebrate all that we have achieved this year with your support. The act of acquiring properties for conservation is an inspiring positive action, leaving a legacy far beyond our own lifetimes, and it is key in mitigating the effects of climate change.

We protected over 800 acres of ecologically valuable wilderness across four new properties, including two that were purchased after our community responded so generously to our spring/summer appeal.

Our 16 properties now span over 4,000 acres, and those open to the public welcome thousands of visitors each year. The lands we protect provide carbon storage equivalent to the emissions of 850 cars every year.

We held 13 outreach events including seasonal nature walks, a family festival, concerts, and an art workshop. These events bring our community together and showcase the natural beauty of our properties.

We expanded our team, adding a third full-time staff person and four new members to our Board of Directors, each bringing valuable knowledge, skills, and experience.

We established an outdoor classroom at High Lonesome Nature Reserve — an inviting space that will welcome students, educators, and community groups for hands-on learning and help foster environmental stewardship.

None of this would have been possible without your support and that of numerous funding partners. We are deeply grateful.

As MMLT grows, so does our need for ongoing financial support. In this season of giving, I ask you to consider donating to MMLT before the end of the year so that we can achieve even more in 2026. The first $20,000 raised through this appeal with be matched, dollar for dollar, by the generosity of some key donors.

Please go to mmlt.ca/donate. Tax receipts are issued for all donations.

Now is also the time to renew membership for next year, become a new member, or gift a membership to someone who shares your love for nature. Membership is an important way to show your support and join a community of conservation-minded people. Membership is $30 for one person and $50 for a family, and is eligible for a tax receipt. Renew, join, or gift a membership at mmlt.ca by clicking the Membership button in the top right.

Thank you for all you do to conserve nature and for your support of MMLT and our important work. I wish you and your family a happy, healthy, and peaceful holiday season and New Year.

Sincerely,