The future of conservation in Ontario depends on people who care enough to take action. For generations, anglers, hunters, donors, volunteers, educators, and community partners have helped protect the fish, wildlife, habitats, and outdoor traditions that define this province. The OFAH Foundation — as an independent charitable organization — exists to carry that commitment forward by turning passion into measurable conservation impact.
The stories, statistics, and opportunities show how donor support is helping grow that impact across the province. They also point to what comes next: expanding programs, strengthening partnerships, and giving more Ontarians meaningful ways to help secure a vibrant future for our wildlife, wild spaces, and outdoor heritage.
A future where everyone in Ontario feels close to a thriving natural world and works together to protect it, ensuring public access to healthy ecosystems and wildlife habitat.
A sustainable future for all, through innovative conservation programs, educational initiatives, and community engagement.
The OFAH Foundation is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors committed to transparency, financial stewardship, and strategic oversight. In 2025, the Foundation held its first Annual General Meeting (AGM) as an independent charitable entity.
The OFAH Foundation’s ability to achieve large-scale, measurable conservation outcomes is increased by the collaboration and financial support of government agencies, corporate sponsors, and non-profit organizations. Working with partners, we ensure that every dollar and hour of volunteer time is maximized.
Inspiring youth
The Foundation is cultivating the next generation of conservation stewards by transforming learning through hands-on experiences, curriculum-linked materials, and more.
Simultaneously, the OFAH | Mario Cortellucci Hunting & Fishing Heritage Centre programs and the Classroom Hatchery Program (CHP) are turning classrooms into conservation hubs, where children see wildlife up close, track the salmon life cycle, and forge a lifelong connection to the outdoors.
Advancing science/research
Through the Foundation’s scholarships, funding supports critical academic work on emerging threats. This ensures that conservation policy and action are informed by the most trusted, up-to-date analysis.
Empowering communities
The OFAH Foundation empowers local growth through the Community Conservation Fund (CCF), providing financial support to grassroots initiatives. The fund has fuelled 52 projects with over $235,000 invested since 2022.
Through the Invading Species Awareness Program (ISAP), volunteers help restore habitat, prevent the spread of invasive species, and protect native biodiversity across Ontario.
Volunteer groups
Where more support is needed
Learn more and donate: OFAHFOUNDATION.ORG
Originally published in the Summer Bassin' 2026 issue of Ontario Out of Doors
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