(Bill Rawson created this birdhouse for the Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust ‘Birds of a Feather Auction Together’. It is the fourth auction raising funds to protect nature reserves and foster engagement with nature.)
The Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust (MMLT) is excited to announce the return of its birdhouse fundraiser auction. With the guidance of Glenda Jones, MMLT is thrilled to announce their fourth birdhouse fundraiser auction: Birds of a Feather Auction Together, runs from April 15 to 30 and MMLT invites the community to bid on the beautifully handcrafted birdhouses, birdbaths, bird feeders, and garden art – designed to enchant the birds and delight homeowners alike. All proceeds will support MMLT’s mission to protect nature reserves and foster engagement with nature.
Following the success of past fundraisers – Birdhouse Blowout (2021), Birdhouse Bonanza (2022), and Backyard Beauties (2023) – this year’s auction aims to raise $7,500 to help acquire and protect vital conservation lands, ensuring the conservation of critical habitats for birds and other wildlife.
One of this year’s auction highlights is an inspiring masterpiece by renowned local artist and sculptor Chandler Swain. Titled The Forest Queen Bird Feeder, this breathtaking creation is now on display at General Fine Craft in Almonte – this masterpiece is a must-see – and a must-have – for art and nature lovers alike!
MMLT is committed to protecting ecologically significant lands across the Mississippi and Lower Madawaska River watersheds. Funds raised through this auction will directly contribute to conserving natural spaces, safeguarding wildlife habitats and fostering a deeper connection to nature.
“With natural landscapes under increasing pressure, conserving land and protecting vulnerable species has never been more urgent,” shares MMLT Conservation Coordinator Andrew Dunbar. “Every bid placed helps us conserve these vital habitats.”
On April 15, visit mmlt.ca/events and follow the auction link to browse the unique collection of 72 handcrafted birdhouses. Register to place your bids and stay engaged as the competition unfolds. The auction closes on April 30, with the highest bidders winning their chosen pieces. After the auction ends, winners will receive instructions on how to collect their birdhouses.
MMLT is grateful for the generosity of donors, including Neil McBride of Almonte, who has already contributed 15 unique pieces to the fundraiser, including birdhouses, birdfeeders, butterfly houses, and garden art! “Conserving land for public use and habitat protection is crucial in a shrinking world,” says McBride. “People from cities and smaller communities need to be able to get out and smell the land and enjoy what our parents and their parents took for granted, freedom to enjoy nature, the birds and creatures that also enjoy the green spaces.”
Join us in celebrating creativity, community, and conservation – place your bids and help protect the natural beauty of our region!
Visit mmlt.ca/events to see the Birds of a Feather Auction Together fundraiser and other upcoming events!
- May 3: Booth at EarthFest, Carleton Place.
- May 8: AGM at MVCA office, Carleton Place.
- May 10: Spring Flowers Walk, Marble Woodlands.
- June 5: Notes for Nature 2 fundraiser concert, Almonte Old Town Hall.
