For 30 years a group of passionate neighbors has worked with Genesee Land Trust to permanently protect old growth woods, grassy meadows, and creekside wetlands in the Town of Ontario.

The result is a high-impact conservation win — 294 acres near Lake Ontario will continue filtering our air and water, storing excess carbon, and supporting wildlife and people for generations.

Thanks to your ongoing support, Deer Creek Woods opens this fall as the 19th public nature preserve created and cared for by Genesee Land Trust.

Introducing West and East

Deer Creek Woods has two public areas buffering three private conservation properties (see map). Deer Creek Woods East — purchased from Bob Smith in early 2024 — has a loop trail along the creek and will be the focus at opening. Volunteers recently planted 200 tree saplings and a parking lot will be added this summer.

“I’m so glad this land my late wife Janet and I have loved for so long is in good hands,” Bob says. “Genesee Land Trust has been a good friend to our family. I feel good knowing Deer Creek Woods will be preserved as a natural treasure for our community to enjoy forever.”

Deer Creek Woods West, purchased from John Creatura in 2022, isn’t as easy to explore yet due to the terrain. The diversity of habitats makes it more resilient for birds and other wildlife as the climate changes.

The First Step Towards Forever

Genesee Land Trust began working in Ontario in 1994 when Janet Buchanan-Smith, Bob’s wife, donated her first voluntary conservation agreement (conservation easement) while retaining ownership of the land. That kicked off a series of protection projects (see map).

Our deepest thanks to Janet, Bob, John, Amanda Smith-Hatch and Keith Hatch, Ann and Floyd Welker, the Town of Ontario, and the Land Trust’s nearly 1,000 members for saving Deer Creek Woods.