Ernie Crossland
Nominating Agency: Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority

Ernie’s level of volunteerism is legendary. He is affectionately known as “Mr. Newmarket”, however he could just as well be known as “Mr. Lake Simcoe.”. His penchant for volunteering combined with a strong will to protect our natural heritage have made him a passionate champion of the Lake and surrounding watershed. Ernie’s conservationist ideals were formed at an early age. He grew up on a farm near Lake Simcoe and remembers how pristine the Lake was at that time. He has worked tirelessly for many years to ensure that Lake Simcoe can again return to the unspoiled condition that he experienced in his youth.

Ernie has been a member of the Lake Simcoe Conservation Foundation since 1985 and served as President from 2000 to 2004. This organization is a not-for-profit entity that raises private funds to protect and restore the Lake Simcoe Watershed. Ernie, an honourary lifetime member, still sits on the organizing committee for the annual Conservation Foundation Dinner, which raises approximately $150,000 each year for restoration efforts in the Lake Simcoe watershed.

Ernie was the founder and chairman of the Millennium Project Nokiidaa Trail which runs 35 kilometers along the East Holland River from Aurora to East Gwillimbury. This walking trail links to numerous other trails and to Lake Simcoe Region conservation areas.

Ernie’s influence has extended well beyond his conservationist pursuits. His support of Lake Simcoe as well as his involvement with such worthwhile pursuits as Habitat for Humanity and Lions Club have been recognized with numerous awards including the George R. Richardson Conservation Award of Honour and the Governor General Queens Jubilee Award.

In 2006 Ernie was recognized as Newmarket’s first Honourary Citizen. With this award the Jean and Ernie Crossland Environmental Scholarship was created. The Scholarship, a result of a gift from the Town of Newmarket and Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Foundation, is established to assist students pursuing a post-secondary degree/diploma in Environmental Studies. Ernie’s legacy remains secure.

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