The Haliburton Highlands Land Trust (HHLT) has a new executive director.
The not-for-profit charitable organization said last week that Dave Newnham starts July 6.
Chair Todd Hall, on behalf of the board of directors, said, “Dave brings a strong commitment to Haliburton County, where he has lived intermittently since the late 1980s.”
Hall added Newnham has extensive leadership experience from his previous roles as vice president, camping and outdoor education with the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario and president and executive director of the Tim Horton Children’s Foundation.
Earlier in his career, Newnham worked at Kinark for several years as a supervisor and also at YMCA Camp Wanakita.
“Through all of his roles, Dave’s approach has been characterized by the development of strong new partnerships and community support, the creation of successful nonprofit fundraising strategies, the inspiration of strong staff and volunteer teams, and the connection of Ontarians with nature,” Hall said.
He added Newnham was “comfortable in the boardroom and in the bush. Dave brings a wealth of experience to HHLT at an important moment. A proven and dynamic leader, Dave has long demonstrated both a commitment to the natural world, and a great talent in connecting people – especially children – to its wonder.”
As the land trust embarks on an ambitious phase of growth and service to the Haliburton community, Hall said he can’t wait to work with Newnham to maximize its positive impact. “As a full-time resident of Algonquin Highlands, Dave’s familiarity with the County ensures he can hit the ground running.”
Newnham said he was delighted to step into the executive director position with the land trust.
“It’s an inspiring opportunity to bring together my deep commitment to environmental stewardship, my background in leading not-for-profit organizations looking to make a real impact, and my love for the incredible natural diversity and the great sense of community here in the Haliburton Highlands.
“I look forward to meeting with our dedicated volunteers, supporters and members of the community to build on our success over the last two decades and work together to deepen our legacy of protected lands and waters for generations to come.”
HHLT is a not-for-profit charitable organization focused on the conservation of the natural heritage of Haliburton County, currently owning and managing seven nature reserves, comprising more than 1,500 acres, of ecologically-diverse lands and waters. Two of the properties have well developed trail systems that are free and open to the public for hiking and nature appreciation.
HHLT is presently working with other partners, including the Ontario Conservation Accelerator, to conserve more ecologicallysensitive land in the County with a 2026-27 goal of doubling land holdings, opening more public trails, and increasing the number of its partners in conservation.
HHLT’s board of directors and committees are made up of volunteers.
Hall said, “we welcome your support. Please consider joining our Friends of HHLT group, volunteering on a committee or at an event, becoming an HHLT property monitor and/or making a financial contribution. Help protect the land and water you love.”
For more information, contact: admin@ haliburtonlandtrust.ca
