Haliburton, Ontario -- The Haliburton Highlands Land Trust (HHLT) Board of Directors is
delighted to announce the hiring of Dave Newnham as Executive Director effective July 6, 2026.
Dave brings a strong commitment to Haliburton County, where he has lived intermittently since
the late 1980s, and extensive leadership experience from his previous roles as Vice President,
Camping and Outdoor Education with the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario and President &
Executive Director of the Tim Horton Children's Foundation. Earlier in his career, Dave worked
at Kinark for several years as a supervisor and also at YMCA Camp Wanakita. Through all of
his roles, Dave’s approach has been characterized by the development of strong new partnerships
and community support, the creation of successful non-profit fundraising strategies, the
inspiration of strong staff and volunteer teams, and the connection of Ontarians with nature.
“Comfortable in the boardroom and in the bush, Dave brings a wealth of experience to the
Haliburton Highlands Land Trust at an important moment. A proven and dynamic leader, Dave
has long demonstrated both a commitment to the natural world, and a great talent in connecting
people – especially children – to its wonder. As the Land Trust embarks on this next ambitious
phase of its growth and service to the Haliburton community, I can’t wait to work with Dave to
maximize our positive impact. As a full-time resident of Algonquin Highlands, Dave’s
familiarity with the County ensures he can hit the ground running.”
- Todd Hall, Chair, HHLT Board of Directors"I'm delighted to be stepping into the Executive Director position with the Haliburton Highlands
Land Trust. It’s an inspiring opportunity to bring together my deep commitment to
environmental stewardship, my background in leading not-for-profit organizations looking to
make a real impact, and my love for the incredible natural diversity and the great sense of
community here in the Haliburton Highlands. I look forward to meeting with our dedicated
volunteers, supporters and members of the community to build on our success over the last two
decades and work together to deepen our legacy of protected lands and waters for generations to
come."
- Dave Newnham, HHLT Executive Director designate
About HHLT:
HHLT is a not-for-profit charitable organization focused on the conservation of the natural
heritage of Haliburton County, Ontario, currently owning and managing 7 nature reserves
comprising more than 1500 acres of ecologically diverse lands and waters. Two of the properties
have well developed trail systems that are free and open to the public for hiking and nature
appreciation.
HHLT is presently working with other partners, including the Ontario Conservation Accelerator,
to conserve more ecologically sensitive land in the County with a 2026-27 goal of doubling land
holdings, opening more public trails and increasing the number of our Partners in Conservation.
HHLT’s Board of Directors and committees are made up of dedicated volunteers. We welcome
your support. Please consider joining our Friends of HHLT group, volunteering on a committee
or at an event, becoming an HHLT property monitor and/or making a financial contribution.
Help protect the land and water you love!
For more information, contact: admin@haliburtonlandtrust.ca