What began in 2023 as an inquiry from landowners Jim and Sheryl Phillips, who sought to permanently protect their farm from the pressures of non-agricultural development, unfolded with the registration of a conservation easement on their 101-acre farm in 2025.
The Phillips property contains a diverse mix of soils, Class 1, Class 3, and Class 5, with farmland dedicated to wheat and hay production. The property also lies within the Niagara Escarpment Plan Area and is remarkably rich in biodiversity. Its forested and natural areas feature established woodlots, ephemeral wetlands, open grasslands, ponds, caves, cliffs, and streams. Together, these habitats support both terrestrial and aquatic wildlife, as well as seasonal use by semi-aquatic species.
The land provides valuable habitat for species at risk, including Eastern Meadowlark, Bobolink, Eastern Wood-Pewee, and Monarch butterflies. Monarchs have been observed breeding and foraging across both the natural and agricultural areas, while the forest offers strong habitat for Eastern Wood-Pewee, confirmed through multiple observations. The Phillips family frequently observes Eastern Milksnakes, and the property also provides valuable habitat for bats, frogs, salamanders, and other snake species.
A Trail Easement through one of the property’s forested areas secures a portion of the Bruce Trail, Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath, which provides free public access to the Niagara Escarpment from Niagara to Tobermory. Approximately 750 metres of the Bruce Trail is protected here, maintained by the Bruce Trail Conservancy (BTC) and the dedicated volunteers of the Beaver Valley Bruce Trail Club.
This property stands as a powerful reminder of how vibrant, productive, and ecologically important farmlands can be.
“It brings me peace of mind to know our land is now protected and will remain intact for future generations. I’m extremely grateful for OFT’s professionalism and dedication throughout the process,” said Jim Phillips, owner of the Phillips property.
