Message from CAO, Leilani Lee-Yates
As we reflect on 2024, I am filled with pride and gratitude for the progress we have made and the resilience we have shown as an organization. The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority continues to grow in both impact and purpose, guided by our mission to protect and restore the Niagara Peninsula watershed for the benefit of people and nature.
This year marked a transformative milestone with the relocation of our headquarters. More than a new space and a change of address, it represents a renewed commitment to collaboration, operational excellence, and deeper community engagement. Our new home reflects our future-focused vision and positions us to better serve our communities.
We also advanced a number of significant initiatives across our integrated watershed programs. From large-scale restoration efforts and enhanced water quality monitoring to innovative data-driven planning, our work is making a measurable impact on the health of the Niagara Peninsula watershed. The continued success of the Niagara River Remedial Action Plan—now with 96 per cent of current delisting actions complete—demonstrates the power of long-term collaboration and the tangible environmental benefits that follow.
Our restoration efforts expanded in 2024, improving critical habitat and climate resilience. These projects are not only improving natural systems but also providing greener, healthier spaces for our communities. None of this would be possible without the support of dedicated volunteers and the growing network of individuals and organizations committed to a shared conservation mission.
Community remains at the heart of our work. This year, we launched Conservation Area and Watershed strategies rooted in public input, ensuring our plans reflect local needs and values. Whether it was through citizen science, consultation sessions, or stewardship programs, we made space for the voices of the watershed. We also deepened municipal partnerships, including a new Memorandum of Understanding with the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake—strengthening stewardship efforts at Virgil Conservation Area and reinforcing our shared commitment to responsible land care.
Internally, 2024 was a year of growth and adaptation. Team members embraced new roles, welcomed new challenges, and brought fresh ideas to the table. In the face of transition, we remained focused and resilient, often exceeding our targets and advancing projects ahead of schedule. I could not be prouder of the leadership and dedication displayed across the organization.
I want to take a moment to acknowledge and thank my predecessor, Chandra Sharma, whose vision and dedication over the past five years helped shape NPCA into the dynamic, community-centred organization it is today. Under her leadership, we achieved major milestones in conservation, public engagement, and organizational growth. It is an honour to continue building on the strong foundation she laid.
Looking ahead to 2025, we do so with confidence and momentum. We are poised to continue expanding our impact, building meaningful partnerships, and delivering results that protect the Niagara Peninsula watershed for generations to come.
On behalf of the entire NPCA, thank you to our staff, the Board of Directors, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation, and our partners for your steadfast support. Together, we are building a future where nature and community thrive side by side.
The future is bright, and we are just getting started.
Leilani Lee-Yates - BES, MSPL.RPD, MCIP, RPP
CAO & Secretary Treasurer
Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority
2024 Annual Report