This thesis is an investigation of the impacts of the biosphere reserve designation on conservation efforts on the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Reserve (NEBR) in Ontario. Several local voluntary community organizations involved in conservation were examined to determine their role in conservation, their successes and the challenges they face. Overall, it is necessary to develop broader awareness in local communities on the NEBR about the biosphere reserve concept and its goals. Respondents also felt that greater awareness and education about environmental issues was needed in their communities to gain support for their conservation efforts. The local conservation organizations examined were involved in many successful projects, despite often lacking adequate funding and active volunteers. It was evident that greater support for these organizations and increased partnerships between them could benefit conservation efforts and create better understanding and use of the biosphere reserve designation on the NEBR.