The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) recently gave out another of its Decade Awards as it continues to celebrate its 80th anniversary.
The latest award, for the decade spanning the 1980s, was handed out on July 30, 2026. The July 30 date is the 80th anniversary date of the local conservation authority’s creation through Order in Council.
The Decade Awards are meant to "honour deserving recipients for each decade of the conservation authority’s history," according to a statement from the ABCA. The Decade Award for the 1980s and onward, was presented in a brief ceremony at Arkona Lions Museum and Information Centre in Rock Glen Conservation Area, Arkona.
Awards were presented to the Arkona Lions Club, Exeter Lions Club, and the Rotary Club of Grand Bend, all of which have worked with the ABCA to establish numerous local initiatives and fundraisers.
"The Arkona Lions Club and ABCA worked together to create Arkona Lions Museum and Information Centre, which was constructed in 1985," shared Tim Cumming, Communications Coordinator for the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority. "Another example of a partnership with community groups is the Conservation Auction fundraiser co-hosted by Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation and Exeter Lions Club. The Conservation Auction, dating back to 1990, has raised more than $1.456 million, for needed projects in local watershed communities, since its beginnings. Exeter Lions and the Conservation Foundation also partner to stock Rainbow Trout in Morrison Reservoir for an annual family-friendly fishing derby. The Rotary Club of Grand Bend has partnered with Ausable Bayfield Conservation on many projects over the years that improve habitat, water quality, and outdoor recreation and nature appreciation."
The ABCA previously honoured, with Decades Awards, the following recipients:
-1940s – Member municipalities, for vision in forming Ontario’s first conservation authority and for continued partnership.
-1950s – Ontario Parks – For establishing and stewarding Pinery Provincial Park.
-1960s – Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (formerly Department of Lands and Forests) for a lasting legacy of reforestation in Ontario.
-1970s – Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation – For work in the community since ABCF was formed in 1974.
