Salt Marsh Conservation

Environment Canada, and its partners in the Eastern Habitat Joint Venture are actively trying to ensure the conservation of salt marshes in Atlantic Canada through acquisition and stewardship.

Acquisition of the most critical salt marsh habitat may occur through the purchase of land which is currently owned by private individuals To date EHJV partners have conserved over 1,200 ha of critical salt marsh habitat in Atlantic Canada. Some of these lands are incorporated in National Wildlife Areas such as the case for the Mary's Point section of Shepody National Wildlife Area.

Acquisition of other salt marshes may also occur through the donation of lands to conservation agencies such as the Nature Conservancy of Canada, PEI Nature Trust, NBNature Trust, Nova Scotia Nature Trust, Ducks Unlimited Canada. Through the federal Eco-Gifts program the donation of ecological sensitive lands to conservation groups qualifies for a tax deduction. For more information on the Eco-Gifts program visit the web site EcoGifts, or contact the Atlantic Region Eco-Gifts Co-ordinator in Sackville, N.B.   

Stewardship Agreements also allow for the protection of salt marshes. Through these agreements private landowners retain ownership to their land and are provided technical assistance by which to preserve their salt marshes. This may also include interpretative materials and signage explaining the importance of salt marsh habitats. Brunswick Mining and Smelting has protected 200 ha of salt marsh in Bathurst NB through the creation of the Daly Point Nature Preserve.

For more information on salt marsh acquisition activities of the Eastern Habitat Joint Venture contact: