A Legacy Rooted in Nature: Mike and Martha Pedersen
Martha and Mike Pedersen have long enjoyed exploring Canada’s natural riches. That appreciation drew them to support NCC, including through a gift in their wills to help conserve the country’s landscapes and wildlife for the long term. SUPPLIED
For Mike and Martha Pedersen, conservation is more than a cause – it’s a way of life. “Conservation feels like a very tangible way to make a difference,” says Martha. Having a relationship with nature is what makes their life richer.
Nature has always played a defining role in the couple’s story. Over the years, they have explored Canada’s vast and varied landscapes on countless canoe trips and hikes, often with their three children in tow from the time they were infants. These shared adventures have deepened their connection to Canada’s natural heritage and strengthened their appreciation for the places they love.
Mike’s own journey with nature began when he moved from Denmark to Canada at age 12. His first glimpse of the country came from a coffee-table book filled with images of wild landscapes and iconic wildlife – a preview that sparked his imagination. Within months of immigrating in 1973, Mike was hiking the Coastal Mountains of British Columbia, spotting his first bear and catching his first wild salmon. From that point on, he was in love with Canada and its incredible biodiversity.
Martha grew up in Ontario, spending every summer at the family cottage or at a nearby summer camp. Those long, nature-filled days instilled in her a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Later, an Outward Bound canoe trip cemented her love of wilderness and adventure. That trip was a turning point for Martha. It confirmed for her how much she valued time in nature and wanted to keep it as a central part of her life.
“It isn’t often that donors can create impact that lasts forever, and conservation feels like a very tangible way to make a difference. We hope that by sharing our story, others will reflect on their own relationship with nature and consider how they can help protect it. ”
Their shared passion for Canada’s landscapes naturally led them to the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC). Mike and Martha are proud supporters of NCC’s mission to protect and care for some of the country’s most ecologically significant places. They see their involvement as a way to give back to the land that has given them so much. In addition to their philanthropic support, Mike contributes his time and leadership as a member of NCC’s board of directors, helping to guide conservation priorities at a national level.
The Pedersens have also chosen to include a gift to NCC in their wills – a reflection of their commitment to ensuring that Canada’s natural places will be protected for generations to come. By including NCC in their estate plans, donors like Mike and Martha help ensure that Canada’s most important lands and habitats are safeguarded for the future.
“When we give to the Nature Conservancy of Canada, the impact we create is permanent; important lands and habitats for species at risk are conserved,” says Mike.
“It isn’t often that donors can create impact that lasts forever, and conservation feels like a very tangible way to make a difference,” adds Martha. “We hope that by sharing our story, others will reflect on their own relationship with nature and consider how they can help protect it.”
Mike and Martha hope their example inspires others to think about the legacy they want to leave. By supporting conservation, they believe everyone has the power to help safeguard Canada’s landscapes and wildlife – forever.
To view this report on The Globe's website, visit globeandmail.com
To view the full report as it appeared in The Globe's print edition Estate planning and legacy giving