IN MEMORY OF PETER ALLEY

Peter Alley 1929-2006

Peter Alley 1929-2006

Peter was a consultant in strategic management for 30 years. For 20 of those years after earning his own MBA, he taught in that subject in the MBA Program and Voluntary Sector Program at Schulich School of Business, York University. Peter spent much of his time over those past years at his cottage at Muldrew Lake near Georgian Bay. A highly perceptive and pragmatic man, Peter discerned that the lands surrounding his cottage were unique. He noticed that this landscape did not resemble those areas to the north, nor did the land appear similar to the fields and farms of the south.

After more investigation, Peter put forward that this “area in between” was extensive, unique and that it needed further consideration. Peter began by persistently asking questions of government officials, appealed for the interest and participation from fellow academics and activists, and gathered maps, documents and relevant research. He learned about geology, ecology, and conservation planning. Fittingly calling the area, The Land Between, after Vernon LeCraw's publication, Peter Alley highlighted the region’s significance. Through his pursuit and persistence Peter inspired hundreds of people across this fragile landscape, literally putting it “on the map”.

In 2005, Peter engaged the Couchiching Conservancy and Kawartha Heritage Conservancy, both land trusts who had been doing research and developing programs within the region, forming a Land Between Collaborative. With a long-term vision to raise broad understanding of the distinctive and vulnerable nature of this region, we wanted to engage a wide spectrum of participants in research and conservation measures.

With Peter’s dedication and a widening network of interest, The Land Between Collaborative was successful in hiring a Program Manager. In a few short years, research, understanding and interest in The Land Between have increased, inspiring sustainable stewardship across this landscape.

Today, both the vision and program have grown. 

Peter lit the torch for The Land Between and has passed it along to all of us.