Minesing to Matchedash — Sandy Agnew and Lynne Melnyk

In this episode, we speak with Sandy Agnew and Lynne Melnyk about the unveiling of the Agnew–Melnyk Nature Reserve—one of the newest protected properties within the Minesing to Matchedash Connected Corridor. This 39.5-acre reserve, donated to the Couchiching Conservancy in 2024, protects a rich mix of grassland meadow, a section of Hogg Creek, and conifer swamp, all forming part of a critical wildlife movement corridor in central Ontario.

Sandy and Lynne share the story behind the donation, what motivated them to secure the land’s future, and how this reserve fits into the broader landscape of conservation work happening across the region. We also explore the long-term goals of the Land For Life Campaign and the growing importance of private land stewardship in maintaining habitat connectivity.

Beyond the history of this particular reserve, our conversation turns to what others can do: how residents can get involved with local conservation efforts, what options exist for protecting their own lands, and why individual action—whether through volunteering, stewardship agreements, or land donations—has become an increasingly important part of safeguarding ecosystems in Ontario.

It’s a discussion about legacy, community-driven conservation, and the role each of us can play in protecting land for generations to come.