Ontario Investing More Than $235,000 in Research to Protect Natural Resources
- Mar 5
- 2 min read
Provincial funding will support innovative science and research projects that will help protect wildlife, fisheries and natural resources
News Release | March 5th, 2026
THUNDER BAY — The Ontario government is investing over $235,000 through Collaborative Research Agreements to support seven innovative research projects across the province, bringing the government’s total investment in active research projects to more than $3 million. These projects will help protect wildlife, improve fisheries management and strengthen the forestry sector, as part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario’s natural resources and communities.
“Through this investment, we are strengthening our plan to protect Ontario’s forests, waterways and wildlife,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “These research projects will help us ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy the natural resources that make our province so special, while supporting good-paying jobs and building resilient communities across Ontario.”
As part of this investment, Lakehead University is receiving $15,000 in provincial funding to research black spruce biodiversity and inform sustainable forestry management practices in support of Ontario’s forestry sector.
“I am happy to see Lakehead University receive support for research that will enhance our understanding of black spruce biodiversity and contribute to sustainable forestry practices here in Northwestern Ontario.” said The Hon. Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay – Atikokan. “By investing in local expertise and innovation, we are supporting responsible development and reinforcing the forestry sector that plays such an important role in our regional economy. “
In addition to Lakehead University, other institutions receiving funding over the next two to four years include Trent University, University of Windsor, and Laurentian University.
“Lakehead University is proud to receive this support from the Government of Ontario to advance research on black spruce biodiversity in Northwestern Ontario. Black spruce is foundational to our boreal forest ecosystem and a critical component of the province’s forestry sector. This research will strengthen the scientific knowledge needed to inform sustainable forest management practices, ensuring responsible stewardship of our natural resources while supporting the long-term economic vitality of Northern communities." said Dr. Gillian Siddall, President and Vice Chancellor, Lakehead University. " We are grateful for the province’s continued partnership in advancing applied research that directly benefits Ontario’s environment and resource-based economy.”
Ontario will continue to work closely with universities and post-secondary institutions to ensure that they can continue to provide our province with invaluable research and information.
Quick Facts
Ontario is home to a wide range of ecosystems and more than 30,000 known species of plants and animals, spanning over 1 million square kilometres.
Home to 250,000 lakes containing one‑fifth of the world’s fresh water, the province supports North America’s largest freshwater commercial fishery, generating over $230 million annually and employing about 1,000 people.
Biodiversity supports essential ecosystem services that sustain life, health and economic activity across the province, with southern Ontario’s landcover providing an estimated $50.2 billion in annual value as of 2013.
Invasive species and habitat loss are the two biggest threats to Ontario’s ecosystems and biodiversity.
