12 February 2026
WOODBRIDGE, ON — Today, the Earth Rangers Centre served as the backdrop for a milestone moment for Ontario’s wildlife, as the Honourable Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, announced the first round of funding recipients under the new Species Conservation Program, an initiative focused on protecting the province’s most vulnerable species through public education and hands-on stewardship.
“Under the new Species Conservation Program, Ontario has quadrupled its investment in species conservation, expanding the impact of community‑driven projects in every corner of the province,” said Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “By making strategic investments to support experienced conservation leaders, we are taking action to restore habitat, support species recovery efforts and protect Ontario’s rich biodiversity for generations to come.”
With support from the Species Conservation Program, Earth Rangers will expand its reach across Ontario by launching a series of high-impact digital Missions highlighting more than 20 Ontario species at risk, including pollinators, birds, bats, turtles, and native plants.
These Missions will be delivered through a new online platform that helps children and families learn about Ontario species, understand the challenges they face, and take meaningful, practical conservation action. Activities will be grounded in Ontario Species Recovery Strategies and designed to translate conservation science into accessible steps kids and families can take.
“Ontario has a strong conservation legacy, but it only continues if we actively engage the next generation,” said Tovah Barocas, President of Earth Rangers. “This support allows us to give young people practical, science-based ways to help protect species at risk and their habitats. We’re turning learning into action and showing kids that what they do can make a measurable difference.”
Missions are at the core of the Earth Rangers experience. Through interactive, digital programming, children explore environmental challenges and are guided toward tangible, real-world solutions. Launching later this year, the series of Missions will empower families to participate in wildlife protection through accessible, hands-on activities, including:
Supporting Habitats: Planting pollinator gardens and keeping shorelines clean
Reducing Threats: Taking simple steps to make neighbourhoods safe for local wildlife
Citizen Science: Reporting wildlife sightings and tracking invasive species using the Earth Rangers platform and tools such as Ontario’s Invading Species Hotline
“When kids take part in conservation, they don’t just build knowledge — they build confidence and agency,” added Barocas. “The impact is both immediate and long term: benefits for species today, and a generation of young Ontarians who feel informed, empowered, and connected to nature.”
Families are invited to join Earth Rangers and start protecting wildlife by visiting www.earthrangers.com or downloading the Earth Rangers App.
