Land Acknowledgment
Trails Youth Initiatives acknowledges that the lands where we operate are on the traditional Indigenous territories of the Haudenosaunee, the Huron-Wendat, and the Anishinaabe; lands which these groups have been living and relationally working on since time immemorial. The Trails Lakeside property resides on land that is covered by the Williams Treaty and by Treaty 13, signed by members of the Mississaugas of the Credit and Chippewa bands. We further recognize the significance of the Dish with One Spoon Covenant to this land, a peace agreement made between Indigenous nations before the arrival of settlers. This treaty characterizes our collective responsibility to each other and Mother Earth, understanding that everyone should take only what they need, leave enough for others and keep the land clean. All visitors to Trails are invited into the Dish with One Spoon Covenant in the spirit of peace, friendship and respect.
Ecology Acknowledgment
Trails operates on the protected lands of the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority, known as Pangman Spring. Nestled in Oro-Medonte, this ecologically rich area supports an incredible diversity of life.
The land is home to Sugar Maples—100 tapped annually for syrup—Birch trees, lush ferns, and ground covers like Wild Sarsaparilla and Ground Yew, which sustain local deer. Surrounding deciduous forests feature Red Oak, White Ash, Beech, and Black Cherry, along with native plants like Purple Trillium, Christmas Fern, and Jack-in-the-Pulpit.
This vibrant ecosystem provides habitats for beavers, coyotes, raccoons, deer, and the endangered Red-bellied Salamander. Meshack Lake, fed by a natural spring, supports muskrats, snapping turtles, and birds like Belted Kingfishers and Great Blue Herons. Wetlands and ponds, including Abednego and Shadrack Lakes, are vital breeding grounds for amphibians like Wood Frogs and Spotted Salamanders, and a refuge for forest birds such as Veeries and Pileated Woodpeckers.
Hedgerows and gardens reflect the land’s settlement history for farming, with Apple trees, Lilacs, and traditional farm flora blending into thriving meadows. Trails Youth Initiatives is dedicated to honoring this extraordinary land by preserving its biodiversity, fostering stewardship, and inspiring youth to build lasting connections with the environment.