Lower Trent Conservation (LTC) is inviting the public to have their say about the future management of the conservation lands it owns within the Murray Marsh.
Murray Marsh is one of the largest remaining wetlands in southeastern Ontario. Located south of Campbellford along Percy Reach on the Trent River, the wetland encompasses 3,760 hectares.
Over the years, LTC has acquired 667 hectares of land within the Murray Marsh. Its property, designated as a Natural Habitat Area, has been primarily managed to remain in a natural state with no maintained trails or facilities.
Through the development of a new management plan for the Murray Marsh property, Lower Trent Conservation hopes to address some management questions including recreational uses, agricultural practices, protection of biodiversity, and future land acquisitions.
The general public is invited to provide input on the future management of the Murray Marsh Natural Habitat Area during an Open House scheduled for April 15, 2014 from 4 to 8 PM at the Cordrington Community Centre, 2992 County Road 30, Codrington. There will be a special presentation about the natural history of the wetland entitled, “Murray Marsh: Amazon of the Trent River valley” at 6:30 pm. Details available at www.ltc.on.ca
“Murray Marsh is home to at least 150 birds, 30 mammals, and 20 reptile and amphibian species, some of which are rare and at risk”, explains Ewa Bednarczuk, LTC Ecology & Stewardship Specialist. “The wetland also acts as a key flood water storage area for the Trent River during spring runoff.”
Due to its large size, diverse habitat, rich biodiversity, and hydrological importance, Murray Marsh is designated as a Provincially Significant Wetland and a Life Science Area of Natural and Scientific Interest.
Murray Marsh Natural Habitat Area is one of 17 properties owned and managed by LTC. LTC owns approximately 1,500 hectares of natural open space which make up part of a regional system of protected landscapes that reflect the natural diversity of the region. The properties also provide a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities for local residents and visitors.