Who Gets the Land?

It is up to donors to choose the recipient that is right for them. Environment Canada can direct potential donors to qualified recipients in different regions. Donors may give land to the crown, an incorporated municipality or qualified charitable organization.

Donations to the crown can be to federal or provincial government departments. This includes agencies such as Parks Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service, Ontario Heritage Foundation and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

Environment Canada certifies charitable organizations to receive ecogifts. Eligible charities include local land trusts, provincial and national level conservation charities and Conservation Authorities. There are approximately 60 such organizations in Ontario – see Eligible Provincial Charities - Ontario. Charities not on the list can apply to Environment Canada. For a description of the qualification process, please see the Ontario Ecogifts Handbook 2005.