Toronto — The Ontario government is committing $9.6 million to wetlands restoration and enhancement, a move officials say will help safeguard communities against the growing risks of drought, flooding and extreme weather events. The funding will be delivered through the Wetlands Conservation Partner Program, which has already supported thousands of acres of restoration work across the province.
Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Todd McCarthy announced the funding Tuesday, describing wetlands as vital natural infrastructure.
“Wetlands make communities more resilient. They act as natural infrastructure that protect our homes and businesses against drought and flooding, clean our water and create habitat for a variety of wildlife,” McCarthy said. “Since the launch of this program five years ago, our government has supported safer, healthier communities through the restoration and enhancement of almost 9,900 acres of wetlands.”
Building on Previous Investments
The new allocation will bring Ontario’s total investment through the Wetlands Conservation Partner Program to nearly $41 million since its launch. Over the next two years, the program will support a wide range of projects, with a particular focus on Great Lakes coastal wetlands, heavily impacted ecoregions, and wetlands located in urban areas that play a role in municipal stormwater management.
Applications for the latest round of funding are now open. Eligible applicants include municipalities, conservation authorities, Indigenous communities, and non-profit conservation organizations. Proposals must be submitted by October 8, 2025.
As part of the program requirements, recipients must secure matching funds from non-provincial sources. For every two dollars provided by Ontario, applicants must contribute at least one dollar, whether through individual donors, foundations, or other levels of government.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
Since the program began, it has supported not only ecological restoration but also economic development. According to government figures, more than 270 green jobs have been created in rural and near-urban communities to implement wetland projects. Officials also estimate that approximately $10 million in flood-related damages has been avoided as a result of wetland restoration efforts.
Industry and community leaders welcomed the latest announcement, emphasizing both the environmental and economic benefits of wetlands.
Support From Conservation Partners
“ALUS commends the Ford government for its continued investment in creating and maintaining wetlands,” said Bryan Gilvesy, Chief Strategy Officer at ALUS. “The success of the Wetlands Conservation Partner Program is a key part of community-based efforts to safeguard Ontario’s water resources. Farmers participating in ALUS have benefitted from the program, allowing them to do good work on behalf of all Ontarians as stewards of wetlands.”
Mike Hendren, Executive Director of the Ontario Conservation Accelerator Foundation, also praised the government’s commitment.
“We applaud Minister McCarthy and the Government of Ontario’s continued investment in this program. We all know the critical value that wetlands play for nature and people and it’s great to see this program support the important work of the conservation community including Ontario’s many land trusts and leading national organizations like Ducks Unlimited Canada,” Hendren said. “Combined with Ontario’s Greenlands program and investments in expansions in the provincial parks and protected areas system, Ontario continues to show strong leadership at this critical time for nature and people.”
Marie-Paule Godin, Manager of Provincial Operations for Ducks Unlimited Canada in Ontario, underscored the long-term value of wetlands.
“Ducks Unlimited Canada is grateful for the Government of Ontario’s renewed commitment to protecting and restoring wetlands across the province through the Wetlands Conservation Partner Program. This funding represents an investment in the health of our landscapes and the well-being of our communities,” she said. “Wetlands are among our most valuable natural assets — providing clean water, flood mitigation, carbon storage, and vital habitat for wildlife. Successful partnerships are essential to building a more resilient Ontario — for nature and future generations. DUC looks forward to continuing its collaboration with conservation organizations, First Nations, landowners, and the Ontario government to deliver impactful, science-based conservation on the ground.”
Municipal governments also expressed their support. Robin Jones, president of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and mayor of Westport, said the investment is critical for local infrastructure.
“Municipal governments recognize the need for mitigation and adaptation efforts to protect essential services, public health, and the environment,” Jones said. “This $9.6 million investment in wetlands restoration is an important step to support municipalities in building naturally resilient landscapes that protect homes and businesses across Ontario.”
Looking Ahead
The Ontario government’s renewed commitment highlights the growing recognition of wetlands as vital assets in climate adaptation planning. With climate change expected to increase the frequency of flooding and drought, officials and conservation leaders argue that natural infrastructure solutions will play an increasingly important role in protecting both communities and economies.
The Wetlands Conservation Partner Program has already restored nearly 9,900 acres and avoided millions in potential damages. With new funding, officials hope to scale up efforts, focusing not only on rural landscapes but also on urban and industrial areas where wetland conservation can provide direct benefits to residents and businesses.
As McCarthy noted, the long-term aim is clear: safer, healthier, and more resilient communities across Ontario.
