About us

About the Trust

“The Orono Crown Lands Trust strives to preserve and protect a natural space for public use through education and stewardship for present and future generations.”

The Orono Crown Lands were originally purchased by the Province as a tree nursery, to be operated by the Ministry of Natural Resources and it predecessor the Department of Lands and Forests. In addition to growing and shipping seedlings, the Ministry used the lands for forest research projects. It ceased to operate as a farm in 1996.

As a result of community consultation in 2001, the Ministry partnered with a grassroots organization the Orono Crown Lands Trust in management of the property. We are volunteers from the Orono area in Clarington, and we assist the Ministry of Natural Resources in management and maintenance of the property. We are concerned that it be accessible to the public, and to that end, we have improved parking facilities, trails and access roads.

To pay for the projects we undertake, we access public sector funds and conduct fund-raising campaigns. We also sell memberships, which we call stewardships, to those who are interested in preserving this important natural resource. If you'd like to join us, visit the contact us page. If you would like to purchase a mug or hat with our logo please view our fund-raising page.

We hope you'll consider becoming a steward. We have trails for hiking and cycling, and areas for picnics, so bring your family and make a day of it. We also host events like our annual summer BBQ and Breakfast in the Forest.

The Orono Crown Lands Trust is a member of Ontario Nature

*Exercising your dog can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors! We ask however, that you keep you pet leashed. Dogs off leash can disturb environmentally sensitive areas where small animals, ground-nesting birds and habitat may be disturbed. Please stoop and scoop.

*Please minimize disturbance, widening or cutting new trails. This conservation effort will ensure that natural spaces and significant habitats in the Orono Crown Lands will be preserved and protected for present and future generations.

*Help us preserve the beauty of the lands by carrying all refuse out with you, or deposit in containers located at main entrances.