What’s at Stake
A Vision for the Future
In 1998 a handful of Butterfield Lake residents were encouraged by the donation of a 28-acre wetland to create the Indian River Lakes Conservancy.
They envisioned a land trust that might protect more of the special lands and waters that they knew and loved and help preserve them for future generations.
Diverse Habitat & Species
The Indian River watershed is strategically positioned along the geologic backbone of the Frontenac Arch connecting the Adirondack Mountains to the highlands of Algonquin Park.
With its distinctive rocky wooded uplands, teeming wetlands, and eighteen beautiful lakes, the Indian River watershed is acknowledged as home to one of the most diverse habitats for wildlife in the northeast.
Moreover, the ecological integrity of that habitat is essential to a confluence of pathways for migratory birds between the Great Lakes and the Appalachian Mountains, as well as for species within and without the region struggling to adapt to climate change.
Community Support
With the continuing growth of community support since its founding twenty-five years ago, the Indian River Lakes Conservancy has indeed evolved beyond its modest, all-volunteer beginnings.
Now a nationally accredited land trust, IRLC’s professional staff and volunteers maintain more than 2,750 acres of wildlife habitat and associated shoreline on numerous preserves, including 28 miles of trails open to the public.
Moreover, the contributions of generous donors like you have enabled the IRLC staff and volunteers to undertake an array of important conservation and community programs to...
preserve river and lake water quality by encouraging land use practices that support healthy lakes and protect property values;
conserve vulnerable wetlands, shoreline, and upland habitat that help sustain that water quality;
promote environmental studies and education programs that engage families and students of all ages to enhance our understanding of the watershed and its biological diversity; and
provide public access to trails and waterfront landings on protected lands that offer recreational and learning opportunities that enrich our appreciation of this special place.
Save land and water – for people, for wildlife, forever!