The Nature Conservancy of Canada is looking for help expanding a conservation project in Albert County.
Conservation representative Denise Roy says there’s a lot to be protected in the area.
The forest is not only a rare type of wildlife habitat but also holds the village of Riverside-Albert’s only water supply.
“This is an opportunity to purchase and protect one of the last remaining old Acadian forests in the Maritimes. Along with thousands of huge old trees, it’s a unique home to a wide diversity of plants and wildlife. If we are able to conserve this land, it will be another win for wildlife, for the forest, for the people of Riverside-Albert and all New Brunswickers,” says Roy.
Less than five per cent of mature Acadian forest, the original forest type of the Maritimes, remains intact due to centuries of settlement and harvesting.
Last year, the NCC. and its partners acquired 130 hectares of forest near Riverside-Albert. Roy says they now have the opportunity to expand that reserve by purchasing adjacent properties.
The nature conservancy will need help raising about $350,000 through donations and partnerships for the project.
The New Brunswick Wildlife Trust Fund is the first partner to join the conservation project.
You can find more information here.