Last November, the 18th Annual Conservation Gala brought together over 220 guests,
25 corporate partners, leaders, and municipal representatives in support of conservation across the watershed. The evening celebrated collaboration, impact, and community, with CVCF raising nearly $200,000, including vital funding for land securement initiatives. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all guests, volunteers, corporate partners, and Board leadership who made this event a success. See you at the 19th Gala on Friday, September 18th, 2026, where CVCF will honour our philanthropic partners with a special Awards Ceremony.

See the photo gallery here.

In 2025, Rattray Marsh Conservation Area celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of conservation, stewardship, and community connection in the heart of Mississauga. The event brought together CVC and CVCF leadership, municipal and federal representatives, volunteers, and members of the Rattray Marsh Protection Association (RMPA) to honor the grassroots efforts that have preserved this rare natural gem. Jean Williams, long-time RMPA leader and CVCF Board member, was recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation for her critical role in advancing this work, and CVCF also thanked all RMPA members for their dedication. Highlights included the presentation of the City of Mississauga Civic Award to RMPA and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque celebrating this milestone, reflecting the power of partnerships, community engagement, and shared dedication in protecting nature for future generations.

Island Lake and the
Bass Derbies

CVC’s Island Lake Conservation Area (ILCA), located in Orangeville, Ontario, spans 820 acres of forests, wetlands, and a scenic lake, offering year-round opportunities for hiking, paddling, picnicking, and ice fishing—plus some truly exciting events for the whole community!

Fishing derbies at ILCA bring people together to enjoy the outdoors, build community, and engage in friendly competition. These events are designed to be inclusive, welcoming anglers of all backgrounds—from those without transportation, specialized equipment, or competitive experience, to recreationalists new to the sport, and even semi-professional clubs with adult and youth chapters seeking productive waters to practice and play.

The winter Ice Fishing Derby and summer Bass Fishing Derby provide opportunities for education, outreach, and sustainable fishing practices, connecting participants with local volunteers, residents, and community partners. Anglers learn the rules and etiquette of competitive fishing while enjoying Island Lake’s thriving natural environment.

2025 Highlights:

• Ice Fishing Derby: 104 adults (15+) and 26 youth (under 15), continuing a 25-year tradition.
• Bass Fishing Derby: Celebrating its 15th year, with 247 adults (13+) and 49 youth (under 15).

Through these derbies, Island Lake fosters shared enjoyment, environmental stewardship, and community connection—demonstrating how partnership and friendly competition can bring people together while celebrating one of Ontario’s most beautiful natural spaces.

Read more about the derbies here!

Did You Know?

Friends of Island Lake (FOIL) is a volunteer group and sub-committee of CVCF dedicated to enhancing Island Lake Conservation Area (ILCA). Since 2005, FOIL has raised funds, supported trail improvements like the Vicki Barron Trail, and hosted events—including the popular Fishing Derbies—that connect the community to nature.

CVCF recognizes FOIL’s vital role in advancing conservation and outdoor experiences at Island Lake.

P.S. If you live in Orangeville, FOIL is always looking for new members!

Last summer, CVCF, CVC, and 407 ETR came together to celebrate the opening of the Crane Gathering Space at Island Lake Conservation Area—a landmark moment in the Credit Valley Trail (CVT) journey. As the first Indigenous placemaking site along the CVT, this welcoming space was developed in collaboration with the Credit Valley Trail Indigenous Roundtable and guided by the Indigenous Experience Plan, bringing Indigenous culture, heritage, and connection to life along the trail.

407 ETR, co-sponsor of the space, has been a generous partner since 2018, contributing philanthropically to support conservation and community initiatives across the Credit River Watershed—including the CVT, the Crane Gathering Space, and most recently the full sponsorship of the second Indigenous key site, Fish Doodem. Their commitment reflects a shared vision of strengthening cultural connection, environmental education, and community stewardship.

We invite you to experience Crane Gathering Space

The Crane Gathering Space provides a place for community gathering, learning, and reflection, honouring Indigenous presence and teachings while opening the Credit Valley Trail to all for meaningful engagement with nature, culture, and heritage.

Inspired by the Ajijaak Doodem (Crane Clan) and the natural rhythm of the sandhill crane’s annual migration through Island Lake, the Crane Gathering Space provides a place for community gathering, learning, ceremonial practices, and reflection. Open to all, it embodies partnership, respect, and shared stewardship while honouring the presence and teachings of Indigenous communities in the watershed. Put this in your list of places to visit!