The Vandermeersh family in Backus Woods (L to R: Mathew Anthony John Vandermeersh, Andrew Anthony Joseph Vandermeersh, Avery Elizabeth May Vandermeersh, and Laura May Christine Vandermeersh). Ontario, Canada.

Model Release: YES

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In 2010, the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), with the support of The W. Garfield Weston Foundation, successfully conserved Backus Woods, a spectacular older-growth Carolinian forest. Some of the oldest living trees in Ontario are found in Backus Woods. The Foundation has supported NCC in protecting more than 4,300 acres (1,740 hectares) in the Southern Norfolk Sand Plain Natural Area.

“Backus Woods is a haven for at-risk species that is treasured by the people of Norfolk County,” said John Lounds, President and CEO of NCC. “We are inspired by the commitment of The W. Garfield Weston Foundation. Their generosity ensures the long-term protection and care of this unique piece of Canada’s natural heritage.”