Ingonish River Wilderness Area
County
Victoria
Size
10,712 ha
Classification
Wilderness Area
Status
New
Conditions Apply?
Yes
Overview
Large undisturbed wilderness with steep river canyons and a diversity of ecosystems from taiga to temperate forest
Ecological Values
Large wilderness area that has seen little recent human disturbance
Steep river canyons of old deciduous forest
Includes taiga ecosystems as well as boreal plateau
Becomes part of a large natural area that includes Cape Breton Highlands National Park
Improves representation of three Natural Landscapes
Potential habitat for national species of special concern and provincially vulnerable Bicknell’s thrush
Outdoor Recreation Values
Backcountry backpacking and hiking
Scenic vistas
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Forestry Values
Area under Port Hawkesbury Paper license
Some areas of boreal plateau could be future timber supply
Other Resource Values
High wind potential
Conditions
Legal protection of portion (666 ha) subject to addressing mineral rights.
Portion (183 ha) pending review of siting options for potential wind energy project.
Exclusions and Vehicle Access
Potential snowmobile trail agreement for Gisborne trail to Ski Cape Smokey.