The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) held its annual Volunteer Appreciation Night yesterday, an event that celebrated the unwavering commitment of its incredible volunteers. The gathering was a heartfelt tribute to the individuals, groups, and organizations that have fueled NPCA’s conservation and environmental stewardship efforts across the Niagara Peninsula watershed.
One of the most touching moments of the evening was the presentation of the Volunteer Service Awards. This year’s recipients were those who went above and beyond, contributing more than 100 hours of their time to NPCA’s many initiatives. These dedicated volunteers have been at the heart of everything from tree planting and ecological monitoring to educational heritage demonstrations and event support, such as the Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival. Each honoree was acknowledged for their tireless dedication, which has collectively helped to make the watershed more resilient and biodiverse, benefiting present and future generations.
The night featured a captivating keynote from national bestselling author and explorer Adam Shoalts. He spoke passionately about his love for wild places—from local conservation areas to Canada’s Arctic—and shared reflections on how all these natural spaces are interconnected. Having grown up in Pelham, Shoalts’ connection to the land runs deep, and he now serves on the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation Board of Directors. His words struck a chord with the audience, emphasizing the vital role of conservation and inspiring volunteers to continue their invaluable work.
Reflecting on the year’s successes, CAO Leilani Lee-Yates shared, “The time, energy, and passion that volunteers pour into our programs, projects, and events are nothing short of inspiring. Whether they’re conserving habitats, educating the public, preserving our rich heritage, or engaging in stewardship activities, they make a tangible difference every single day. Their contributions don't just support NPCA; they strengthen the fabric of our entire community. It's because of them that we can look to the future with hope and excitement, knowing that our natural spaces are in caring hands.”
As NPCA looks forward, it does so with the strength of its dedicated volunteers and partners, eager to continue the important mission of conserving the Niagara Peninsula watershed’s natural resources.
For those inspired to join these efforts, click HERE to learn more about NPCA's volunteering opportunities.