On March 4, 2026, the City of Brantford, the County of Brant, and the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) announced a new partnership to protect the future of the Apps’ Mill Nature Centre in the County of Brant, Ontario. The agreement ensures that local students and residents will continue to have access to environmental education and outdoor activities at the site.
Under the new deal, the County of Brant will take over ownership and maintenance of the 4.5-acre property. This land transfer moves the responsibility for the grounds from the conservation authority to the local municipality.
The agreement keeps long-standing school programs running, which serve thousands of students every year. While the county will look after the property, the conservation authority will continue to lead the environmental education classes that have been a staple for local schools for decades.
To support the ongoing costs, the City of Brantford has committed to providing $112,000 in annual funding starting in 2027. This stable funding is intended to address previous community concerns regarding the potential closure or reduction of services at the facility.
The partnership also creates new opportunities for the three groups to work together on expanded community programming. The Apps’ Mill Nature Centre has been a part of the community since the modern building was donated in 1981, though the historic mill located on the property dates back to 1841.
