Chignecto Isthmus Wilderness Area

Overview

Large forest and wetland patch surrounding existing conservation lands

Ecological Values

Forested connectivity corridor between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick

Large fen‐bog complex

At least 5 species of rare plants

Patches of mature red spruce forest

One of only a few opportunities to protect a representative example of the Northumberland Strait Plain Natural Landscape

Outdoor Recreation Values

Hunting, fishing, trapping

Other outdoor recreation

Forestry Values

Mix of mature and young softwood and mixedwood stands and extensive wetlands

Plantations, treated stands and extensive forest access road network in parts of the area

More than half of the area is within a forestry company's privately owned woodlands

Other Resource Values

Low mineral potential

High petroleum potential

The area overlaps with a regional agreement for petroleum exploration

Low to medium wind potential

The area overlaps with the recharge area of the Town of Amherst's drinking water well field

Conditions

A portion is of interest for potential securement by the province (4083 ha)

Exclusions and Vehicle Access

Chignecto Ship Railway excluded

Potential OHV agreement for route 104 and connector to New Brunswick

Additional Comments

Expansion of the existing wilderness area will support efforts by the Town of Amherst to protect its drinking water supply

Includes two campsite leases and a camp operated by Scouts Canada

Maritimes and Northeast Pipeline to be licensed

Camp access at Long Lake to be reviewed through site-specific planning