As one of Conservation Halton’s eight parks, Mountsberg Conservation Area is a favorite among nature enthusiasts and families alike, serving as a hub for outdoor activities, events, and educational experiences. From the park’s network of hiking trails and annual Maple Town festivities to its interactive Farm Animal Barn and Raptor Centre, Mountsberg offers a rich array of experiences that keep visitors returning again and again.

Over the past year, the popular park has enjoyed a significant makeover, thanks to the generous support of Connected Campaign donors and partners. Visitor pathways in Mountsberg’s courtyard were revitalized this summer with eco-friendly permeable pavers, creating both an aesthetic and environmental upgrade. Connecting to these trails, the team installed a raised firepit with seating to offer a comfortable outdoor space for year-round gatherings, while new native plant landscaping added nearby supports the park’s natural beauty and local pollinators. Families can also access new play features at the courtyard’s natural playground, giving the park’s youngest visitors more opportunities to explore and play in nature.

Eager to support these vital upgrades at Mountsberg, corporate donor NPM Construction demonstrated their commitment to the Connected Campaign this fall, providing materials, equipment, and services in-kind to help extend, repair and resurface the Sugarbush trail. Completed just in time for Christmas Town wagon rides, this act of generosity has enhanced the park for visitors and created a safer working environment for Conservation Halton staff and horses.

An improved and expanded Sugarbush Trail supports seasonal programs at Mountsberg Conservation Area. From left to right: Justin Silva, Senior Manager of Operations at Conservation Halton, Julian Rufo, President at NPM Construction, and Garner Beckett, Executive Director of the Conservation Halton Foundation.

“The crew at NPM Construction have done an incredible job upgrading the trail ahead of our busy winter season,” said Justin Silva, Senior Manager of Operations at Conservation Halton. “Now, our programming team doesn’t have to worry about navigating icy hills during horse-drawn wagon rides. It’s a smoother and safer route for the animals and enhances the experience for our many guests. We’re so grateful to have this new-and-improved space for our park programs.”

Reflecting on the company’s generous gift, Julian Rufo, President at NPM Construction, shared why this donation matters so much to him and his colleagues. “The peace and serenity offered by each of the Conservation Halton Parks is an experience that all Ontarians should discover. Our firm was proud to complete a project at Mountsberg Conservation Area earlier this year, where our team was able to spend time in this peaceful surrounding, and truly enjoy a break from everyday metropolitan surroundings. Our recent contribution to the Sugarbush Trail was an effort to ensure the pathways would be as enjoyable as possible—promoting joy and a connection to nature for generations to come.”

By investing in park improvements, campaign donors and community partners, like NPM Construction, are helping to create more sustainable spaces that support family learning, inspire play, and connect communities across our watershed.

To learn more about our Parks & Greenspaces campaign pillar and associated projects, visit: https://www.conservationhalton.ca/campaign/parks-greenspaces/