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The loss and fragmentation of coastal wetlands in Atlantic Canada,
including saltmarshes, brackish marshes, barachois ponds, and small intertidal estuaries,
is one of the most severe and publicized cases of wetland loss in Canada.
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It has been estimated that 65% of salt marshes in the upper Bay of Fundy
have been lost, mostly by dyking and draining for conversion to agriculture since European
settlement. Many remaining areas have been further degraded by construction of barriers and
culverts which limit the movement of tidal waters.
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In recent years, the popularity of beaches along the Northumberland
Strait has resulted in many coastal wetlands being filled or drained for residential
development.
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Web Site Tip:
Click on the thumbnails for full size images and descriptions.
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Salt marshes are integral components of Maritime Canada’s coastal
ecosystems, serving as important areas of primary production for coastal food chains, and
habitats for wildlife such as fish, insects and birds. The loss of coastal wetlands has
probably resulted in declines in populations of birds that are dependent on them.
Of particular concern are the impacts of habitat loss for birds such as
the Willet and Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow, whose populations in the Maritime
provinces may be less than 2,500 and 750 pairs, respectively.
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