Burnishing a Natural Gem on the Shore of Lake Erie

A recent naturalization enhanced a haven for wildlife at James N. Allan Provincial Park in a rare opportunity to restore coastal wetland habitat on Lake Erie. Habitats along the coastline support wildlife in all seasons—and shelter thousands of migrating birds every year. This park also provides habitat for endangered species including Blanding’s turtles and black rat snakes.

The publicly owned preserve protects nearly 300 acres (117 hectares) of natural space skirting an expansive pebble beach. The mix of ecosystems creates a hub for wildlife right next to one of Canada’s Great Lakes. Before the wetland project, plantings by the Haldimand Stewardship Council had already reforested many acres of habitat.

This year, DUC led a restoration of about three acres (1.2 hectares) at the edge of an agricultural field within the park. Already, the wetlands are working double-time, providing habitat for wildlife and improving water quality by capturing and filtering surface-water runoff. The habitat will be further enhanced by the Haldimand Stewardship Council with nest boxes, native grasses, floating logs for waterfowl, and hibernacula for snakes.

Ron Gould is a protected areas specialist for Ontario Parks. “This habitat immediately benefits a high diversity of migratory and resident wildlife within the park,” he says. The restoration also supports the province’s goal to restore former agricultural lands to nature within the parks system.