This summer, the Ontario Farmland Trust (OFT) field staff, Joel and Anika, embarked on a vital mission: monitoring OFT’s protected properties. These visits are essential for ensuring that conservation efforts continue to honour the vision of the landowners who have entrusted OFT with their properties. Here’s a closer look at the purpose, process, and findings of these monitoring visits.
The Purpose of Monitoring Visits
At the heart of OFT’s conservation work is a commitment to preserving lands for the long term. Each year, OFT undertakes the task of monitoring the protected properties to ensure that conservation easement agreements are upheld. These agreements, designed to last for 999 years, reflect the enduring legacy of the landowners’ conservation goals. The monitoring process is crucial for maintaining the integrity of these agreements and ensuring that the conservation vision for the land is realized.
Observing Species at Risk
One of the most rewarding aspects of monitoring is witnessing the positive impact of conservation efforts on local wildlife. This summer, Joel and Anika observed several species at risk benefiting from the protection of these lands.
Here are a few highlights:
- Grassland Nesting Birds: Many of the properties protected by OFT include hayfields, which are crucial habitats for native grassland nesting birds. This year, the team spotted Bobolinks, Eastern Meadowlarks, and Grasshopper Sparrows—species that rely on these hayfields for breeding and survival.
- Forested Areas: OFT’s protected lands also include intact forested areas. Among the species observed were the Eastern Wood-Pewee and the endangered Butternut Tree, highlighting the importance of preserving forest ecosystems.
- Monarch Butterflies: These iconic butterflies were seen in both agricultural and forested areas. They were spotted feeding and laying eggs on Common Milkweed plants, which are essential for their lifecycle.
The Monitoring Process
A typical monitoring visit is a thorough and detailed process. Here’s how it generally unfolds:
- On-Site Inspection: Two OFT staff members walk the property, carefully inspecting various areas to ensure compliance with the easement terms.
- Documentation: Photographs are taken of different parts of the property to document any changes and verify that conservation practices are being maintained. This documentation is crucial for reporting and future reference.
- Time Frame: Depending on the size of the property, a monitoring visit can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours. These visits usually occur once per year, between May and September.
Tools of the Trade
To aid in their monitoring efforts, the team uses a range of tools:
- Landscapes App: This phone application helps catalog photos and GPS points taken during visits. It is an essential tool for organizing data and writing monitoring reports.
- Field Guides and Binoculars: These are used to identify plants and wildlife in the field, helping to ensure accurate documentation of species observed.
- Merlin App: A free application that assists with bird identification based on their calls and songs, enhancing the accuracy of species records.
Reflections on a Successful Season
As August 1st marks one year since Joel joined the OFT team, this summer’s monitoring season holds special significance. It has been a rewarding experience meeting landowners and observing the tangible benefits of conservation efforts. Joel is enthusiastic about continuing this important work and looks forward to protecting even more properties in the future.
In summary, the summer monitoring visits conducted by OFT not only uphold conservation agreements but also provide valuable insights into the health of protected lands and the species that thrive there.
Learn More About OFT’s Protected Properties
OFT has protected over 2700 acres of farmland on 26 farms, and is proud to be in partnership with landowners to accomplish our mission of protecting farmland forever.
To learn more about OFT’s protected properties visit our Protected Farms page.
To help us continue to preserve farmland for future generations, please consider making a donation here.