June 26, 2018 - Collingwood, Ontario

For Immediate Release:

The Nottawasaga Lighthouse Preservation Society (NLPS) is pleased to announce that notice has been received from the Canadian government that will allow both parties to move forward with steps facilitating transfer of ownership of the lighthouse property from the government to the NLPS.

NLPS Board member and government liaison Robert Square received confirmation on Friday June 22nd from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans confirming that a required Indigenous land claim study is nearing conclusion paving the way for the next steps in ownership transfer to commence.  Mr. Square stated: '"The intent of these investigations is to determine whether any claims exist as the result of pre-existing treaties or agreements made between the government and other parties many of which were entered into from 1871 to 1921."

Rich Crouch, NLPS Chairman commented: "As a real estate Broker, this has been one of the most interesting and lengthy real estate transactions I have been a part of involving a 160 year old structure and multiple levels of government. While land registry records show the property is owned by HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN IN RIGHT OF CANADA, various departments within the Canadian government are involved with the property's disposition.

About the Nottawasaga Lighthouse Preservation Society:

The NLPS was incorporated and received charitable status in 2015 to ensure that the heritage resources of the Nottawasaga Island Lighthouse are protected through restoration and preservation of the lighthouse & keeper’s residence in a manner that respects their significant and irreplaceable historical legacy. The Nottawasaga Lighthouse is one of six “Imperial Towers” constructed around Lake Huron and Georgian Bay in 1855-1858.

Rick Crouch, NLPS Chair, Robert Square, NLPS Board Member/Government Liaison