Prince Edward Island, or Epekwitk in Mi’kmaq (meaning “lying in the water”), is a small sandstone gem at the edge of the Atlantic. It is the smallest Canadian province and also the most densely populated. Often likened to a patchwork quilt, PEI has a gently rolling landscape of fields and forests, with fingers of small, spring-fed cold-water brooks everywhere, feeding rich coastal bays.
Islanders cherish the natural beauty of their green and red home; it is Island Nature Trust’s home too. We have been working since 1979 to protect land in PEI and manage it responsibly. We believe we need to retain some land as undeveloped, for its intrinsic and wildlife values, but also to provide the natural services Islanders depend on for clean water, clean air and a livable environment.
PEI’s population is growing and our rural landscapes are under increased pressure from residential development, resource use and climate change. Now more than ever there is a great need for Islanders to work together to protect the natural assets we love while ensuring we support a sustainable way of life for Islanders. Island Nature Trust invites you to join us in working to protect the Island’s natural spaces, both for our children and the diversity of wildlife that live here.
Our Mandate
WHO WE ARE:
Island Nature Trust is a non-government, not-for-profit organization dedicated to protection and management of Natural Areas on Prince Edward Island (Canada). We acquire lands to be held in trust for future generations, manage these lands as an example of appropriate and sustained use, and help private owners voluntarily protect their lands. We work with government and private landowners to create a true natural areas network on Prince Edward Island, consisting of core protected areas connected by corridors.
OUR MISSION:
To create a legacy of natural areas and wildlife habitats for future generations.
OUR VISION:
We envision a network of protected natural areas across PEI, sustained by the love and generosity of Islanders today for the enjoyment of Islanders and wildlife tomorrow.
WHAT WE DO:
The Island Nature Trust’s (the Trust) success is contingent on working with willing landowners and like-minded partners. Our organization does not have an enforcement role, nor does it have authority in private property matters.
The focus and priority of the board and staff is our stated mission to create a legacy of natural areas and wildlife habitats for future generations. The Trust is unwavering in its commitment to the establishment and protection of the province’s ecosystems for the benefit of all Islanders. We accomplish this through the acquisition (either by purchase, donation or a combination of) and stewardship of natural areas, the promotion of private land protection, species at risk monitoring, and education and outreach activities.
Our organization has pursued coastal ecosystem protection through several endeavours including our species at risk programs, shoreline restoration and conservation activities, and with specific land acquisitions.
Although many of our activities are not the subject of public discourse, we do work with federal and provincial governments, like-minded organizations, and funding partners to encourage policy, programs, and legislation to prevent environmental damage and to ensure the shore, wetlands, and forests remain healthy and resilient.
The Trust will continue to work to acquire land to create a legacy for future generations, and we will continue to engage in conversations with all stakeholders to ensure that we have natural areas to protect.
HOW WE WORK:
Island Nature Trust is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors who provide the strategic direction and priorities for the organization. The work on the ground is completed by dedicated and professional staff along with superb volunteer guardians.
Our work is founded upon and guided by the following core values:
- Care and responsibility for the land: We are committed to environmentally and socially responsible management of natural areas in PEI
- Integrity and respect: We are dedicated to integrity and respect in all dealings with staff, members, clients and partners
- Excellence: We are a professional, science-based, strategic-minded organization that is committed to excellence, efficiency and safety in all activities
- Collaborative: We work in good faith to achieve common goals through discussion and cooperation. Our approach to decision-making is transparent, consultative and fiscally responsible
Island Nature Trust’s constitution, bylaws and governance policy:
Latest Articles
- Local Farmers Committed to Bobolink ConservationThe partnership between ALUS and Island Nature Trust has been one that has created a wonderful foundation for farmland bird conservation across Prince Edward Island. Local farmers are proving their commitment to wildlife by providing nesting… Read more: Local Farmers Committed to Bobolink Conservation
- Remembering John SylvesterThe Staff and Board of Island Nature Trust wish to extend their condolences to the family of John Sylvester, a gifted photographer who captured the beauty of our Island’s ecosystems. John was an ardent supporter of… Read more: Remembering John Sylvester
- Portage Bog Natural Area ExpansionIsland Nature Trust is thrilled to announce the purchase and protection of 240 acres (97 hectares) of ecologically significant bog, salt marsh, and lowland forest that stretches from the Western Road to the Portage River in… Read more: Portage Bog Natural Area Expansion
- Survivor for a Cause: How PEI’s Fraser McCallum Used Reality TV to Raise Awareness for Island Nature TrustIn a world of reality TV where backstabbing and strategizing often take center stage, one Islander is using his love for Survivor to make a real difference in conservation. Fraser McCallum, a Parks Canada employee and… Read more: Survivor for a Cause: How PEI’s Fraser McCallum Used Reality TV to Raise Awareness for Island Nature Trust
- Let’s Give a Hoot About Nature This WinterBirds, like this barred owl make their home in our Island’s forests and wetlands and are signs of healthy ecosystems. While you might not see them, you may hear them with their distinctive call that sounds… Read more: Let’s Give a Hoot About Nature This Winter
- Media Spotlight: INT’s Essential Role in Protecting Natural AreasAt Island Nature Trust, we are committed to safeguarding the natural beauty of Prince Edward Island. This summer, our stewardship team collected approximately 1,500 pounds of illegally dumped waste across our properties. From household appliances to… Read more: Media Spotlight: INT’s Essential Role in Protecting Natural Areas
- Media Spotlight: INT Sees Overwhelming Volunteer Response Following CBC CoverageFollowing an October 10 article published by CBC News, Island Nature Trust received an overwhelming response from Islanders eager to join its Conservation Guardian program. The article highlighted the need for more volunteers to monitor and… Read more: Media Spotlight: INT Sees Overwhelming Volunteer Response Following CBC Coverage
- Island Nature Trust Announces New Executive Director, Melissa Cameron July 3, 2024 Charlottetown, PE – Island Nature Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Melissa Cameron as its new Executive Director. Melissa brings a deep understanding of Island Nature Trust, having served as acting… Read more: Island Nature Trust Announces New Executive Director, Melissa Cameron
- Exploring Creative Fundraising Options for Island Nature Trust: Making a Difference with Be Creative for NatureWelcome to the world of creative fundraising, where your passion for nature meets your knack for innovation. At Island Nature Trust, we’re dedicated to protecting the natural beauty of Prince Edward Island, and we invite you… Read more: Exploring Creative Fundraising Options for Island Nature Trust: Making a Difference with Be Creative for Nature
Be A Champion For Nature
We all share a unique connection to nature, and our supporters express it in diverse ways.
They are our Champions of Nature, coming from various backgrounds – from hands-on volunteers to
digital advocates, creative fundraisers, and generous donors.
What kind of Champion for Nature are you?
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