At its June Board meeting, Lower Trent Conservation pledged $15,000 to help purchase 2.5 km of undeveloped Lake Ontario shoreline habitat along Presqu’ile Bay. Along the shore of this 231 acre parcel is an intact coastal wetland, which forms part of a large provincially significant wetland and the Presqu’ile Bay Important Bird Area.
Coastal wetlands are among the region’s most ecologically valuable and productive habitats. They improve water quality by filtering pollutants and sediment; reduce flooding and erosion during periods of high water, and provide important habitat for wildlife, including habitat for birds, fish, frogs, turtles, and other species – many of them at risk. They also provide recreational opportunities.
The parcel along County Road 64, in the southeast end of Brighton, has the potential to be developed. That’s why the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is acting fast – raising funds to purchase the property and ensure long-term protection and management. Ducks Unlimited and the federal government under the Natural Areas Conservation Program are contributing significantly to the project costs, which exceed one million dollars, but more donations are needed to seal the deal.
“Protecting wetlands is very important to Lower Trent Conservation – they play such a vital role in maintaining watershed health,” says Glenda Rodgers, Lower Trent Conservation CAO. “The Conservation Authority doesn’t have the resources to buy a property like this. But by donating to NCC, we can ensure that this wetland is protected forever.”
Others interested in supporting the project can contact NCC by visiting their website at www.natureconservancy.ca. “Every little bit helps” adds Rodgers.
Lower Trent Conservation is a community-based non-profit environmental protection organization that protects, restores and manages natural resources within the Lower Trent watershed region. The organization works with local communities to create a healthy, environmentally diverse watershed that improves the quality of life for residents, makes the area more appealing to visitors and new business, and helps to ensure a more vibrant regional economy. For more information visit www.LTC.on.ca.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
