Goals
Partners Make
It Happen
Why Birds?
A New
Headquarters
Habitat Protection
Long Point
Programs
Regional and
National Programs
International
Programs
Bird Studies
Canada
Long Point -
A Showcase of
Natural Treasures
Return to
The Organization
Return to
Web Site Map
HABITAT PROTECTION
At 105,000 hectares, Long Point is one of Canada's most significant natural areas. BSC's new Headquarters and National Research Centre site is a strategic element in a local network of permanently protected areas, owned and managed by public and private conservation partners including Environment Canada, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Long Point Region Conservation Authority, the Long Point Company and other private hunt clubs, and Ducks Unlimited Canada.
The new Headquarters and National Research Centre is the site of some of the first settled land on the north shore of Lake Erie. The original patent was granted to Lucas Dedrick in 1797. Only two families have owned the site since then. The site contains uplands overlooking the Inner Bay and a 10-acre provincially-significant wetland. BSC has developed a management plan for the headquarters site, registered on title.
The plan calls for the restoration and rehabilitation of the site to enhance habitat for migrant birds. Native forest, prairie and shrubby edges will be planted on the upland fields. The existing provincially-significant wetland will be enhanced, through water-level control, to improve and increase habitat for shorebirds, waterfowl and other wetland dependent species. Pathways through the property will permit and encourage passive enjoyment of the headquarters site.
Restoration activities are currently underway. Boundary and nodal tree-planting has begun, the prairie has been planted, and wetland restoration is planned for 1999. Restoration activities have included considerable community involvement.
One other property, critical for bird conservation and the integrity of our long-term research programs, is currently available. Acquisition of this critical site is budgeted as part of the current Campaign.
Return to Top of Page
Return to Previous Page
Organization International National Regional Long Point Site Map