Travel Sustainably
Learn about the people, organizations, and businesses working to keep Kawarthas Northumberland green for future generations
Kawarthas Northumberland is fortunate to have so much precious green space. From the dramatically varied landscapes that make the City of Peterborough and Peterborough County part of “The Land Between” to the annual Ganaraska salmon run in Northumberland County to the globally rare limestone plain landscapes of Carden Alvar in Kawartha Lakes, there’s a lot that must be preserved and protected.
In this sustainable tourism video series, we examine and celebrate the steps tourism businesses and organizations within the Kawarthas Northumberland region are taking to lessen their environmental impact, make sustainable business decisions and work towards protecting the integrity of the people, communities and environment of the place we call home.
Kawartha Land Trust: Securing the Future
The Kawartha Land Trust is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Kawarthas by protecting forests, wetlands, shorelines, and endangered ecosystems. Through the efforts of local landowners and community members, over 7,000 acres across 40 properties have been safeguarded for future generations. Their work ensures public access to nature, supporting both environmental conservation and community well-being. By fostering a lasting connection between people and the land, the Kawartha Land Trust empowers individuals to leave a meaningful legacy and protect the landscapes that make the region special.
Visit them at: kawarthalandtrust.org
Music in Nature: A Journey in Sustainability
Westben Centre for Connection & Creativity through Music in Trent Hills, Ontario, seamlessly blends music, nature, and sustainability. Founded 25 years ago by Brian and Donna Finley, Westben has grown into a vibrant hub where performances in intimate venues—like their 400-seat timber-frame barn and open-air Willow Hill amphitheater—are enriched by the surrounding natural beauty. Driven by a commitment to environmental responsibility, Westben integrates sustainable practices through native gardens, birdhouse initiatives, and partnerships with local conservation groups. Their mission fosters deep connections between people, music, and the environment, inspiring hope for a more sustainable future.
Visit them at: westben.ca
Elmhirst’s Resort: Staying Rural
Elmhirst’s Resort, a family-owned destination on the north shore of Rice Lake, Ontario, has prioritized sustainability for generations. Managed by fourth-generation owner Greg Elmhirst, the resort integrates eco-friendly practices such as planting indigenous shoreline vegetation to prevent erosion, switching to energy-efficient heat pumps, and utilizing biomass energy. Their farm-to-table approach is deeply rooted in practicality, with over 30% of their food grown on-site and 90% of their beef sourced directly from the property. Certified by Sustainable Tourism 2030 and Feast On, Elmhurst continues its journey toward net-zero emissions while preserving its authentic rural Ontario experience for future generations.
Visit them at: elmhirst.ca
Meet the Organizations Keeping Kawarthas Northumberland Green
We love exploring the wild trails and open plains of our region, but there are complex factors at play when it comes to land stewardship. Conservation groups have done an incredible job combatting invasive species, preserving wildlife corridors, and organizing outdoor education events.
In this series of conservation articles, you’ll meet people in every corner of region working diligently to protect the beauty and diversity of the region.
Agritourism and Education
All kids instinctively love animals, and it’s the job of their caregivers to nurture that respect for nature into adulthood. Of course, the learning doesn’t stop no matter how old you are, so all ages can benefit from an informed perspective. From high welfare animal husbandry to outdoor education to energy and resource-saving advice, below you’ll find links to places and organizations that offer tours, info sessions, and other means to get involved.