Heritage Green Community Trust has confirmed a $2 million contribution to fund the construction of an engineered wetland at the new Saltfleet Conservation Area.

The wetland is one of a string of projects planned to transform the Upper Stoney and Battlefield Creek sub-watersheds and provide a legacy of lasting benefits for future generations of Hamiltonians. Not only will it protect natural areas along both creeks, it will expand them into nearby conservation lands and dramatically increase their resilience in the face of a rapidly changing climate. This will decrease the downstream flood risk, create habitat for a whole range of species and lead to a healthier and more resilient creek system.

Work on the wetland began in January and this extraordinary donation means that the construction of the first wetland can proceed immediately. Fundraising efforts will now turn to a second engineered wetland which is currently in the planning stages.

In addition to the environmental benefits, the new Saltfleet Conservation Area will also introduce new passive recreation opportunities to the area, linking to the Dofasco 200 Trail and the Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation Area.

Established in 1997, Heritage Green Community Trust is fully funded by GFL’s Stoney Creek Regional Facility and successfully distributes grants to qualifying recipients or organizations projects providing benefits to residents within a 3 km perimeter of GFL’s facility.

To recognize Heritage Green Community Trust’s contribution, which builds on an earlier contribution used to purchase land to create the conservation area, the main trail in Saltfleet Conservation Area will be named the Heritage Green Community Trust Trail.