Haliburton Highlands Land Trust

Protecting the land we love for future generations

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Protecting The Drag River Headwaters

Protecting The Drag River Headwaters

815 acres of rich forests and wetlands at the source of the Drag River

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Join Us In Establishing The Drag River Headwaters Nature Reserve

815 acres of pristine wetlands and forests on private land just minutes from Algonquin Park. Its size, remoteness, and beauty are unmatched. A neighbouring 326 acre parcel has already been secured, creating a combined opportunity of 1,141 acres. Together, these extraordinary property lies at the headwaters of the Drag River Watershed, protecting the source waters of iconic Haliburton lakes like Drag, Kashagawigamog, and the entire 5-lake chain flowing through Haliburton Village.

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Drag River Headwaters Map
Location of property at the head of the Drag River Watershed

Help Us Reach Our $1.18 Million Goal

We have already raised the majority of funds through grants, funding partners, and a generous donation by the seller. Now we need your help to raise the remainder by November 30 to ensure this land remains wild.

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Fundraising Progress Bar Component
Drag River Headwaters Nature Reserve

$960,000

raised of $1,182,420 target

81.2% Funded

Why This Land Matters To Our Community

When local land becomes too fragmented, our wildlife suffers and our water quality is threatened. Here are 4 reasons to bring this land under local, permanent protection.

Clean Water for Haliburton

The property sits at the headwaters of the Drag River watershed, directly safeguarding drinking water for Haliburton Village and protecting major lakes like Drag, Head, Kashagawigamog, Grass, and Canning.

A Biodiversity Hotspot

The property lies within the Frontenac Arch, officially designated by Parks Canada as one of only 23 National Priority Areas for Ecological Corridors. These lands are recognized as having the greatest impact for protecting biodiversity and climate resilience across Canada. 

A Wildlife Sanctuary

We’ve already confirmed the presence of 8 species at risk, including the Eastern Wolf, Blanding’s Turtle, Little Brown Bat, Canada Warbler, and Evening Grosbeak. No invasive species have yet to penetrate this remote wilderness. 

Protecting Vital Wetlands

Over one-third of the property is thriving wetland, acting as a natural buffer against severe weather and flooding for our community. 

What Your Support Makes Possible

Your donation directly supports the acquisition and ongoing stewardship of this amazing property. Funds support species inventories and long term research on ecosystem health and biodiversity on the property by HHLT biologists and land stewards.

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