Wetland Restoration Underway at the Two Creeks Forest Conservation Area
Wetland restoration efforts are underway at the Two Creeks Forest Conservation Area in South Dundas, led by South Nation Conservation (SNC) in partnership with Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC). Together, they are working to restore vital wetland habitats to improve the health of the local environment.
This collaborative focuses on enhancing two wetland areas within the Conservation Area. By restoring these natural habitats, SNC and DUC aim to create critical breeding grounds for a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, amphibians and aquatic species. The project will also improve water drainage at the park, mitigate flooding risks, and sequester carbon, all contributing to the long-term sustainability of the area.
"Our partnership with Ducks Unlimited Canada provides lasting benefits to wetland restoration projects throughout Eastern Ontario," said Michelle Cavanagh, SNC’s Special Projects Lead. "Wetlands are essential to maintaining healthy ecosystems and their restoration is a crucial step toward climate change resiliency and protecting local biodiversity."
DUC echoes the importance of working together to drive meaningful environmental change. "Wetlands play a crucial role in supporting wildlife and maintaining the overall health of our environment," said Meredith Meeker, Conservation Program Specialist for DUC. "This partnership is essential for restoring critical habitats at the Two Creeks Forest, and together we are enhancing the natural landscape for years to come."
Work includes creating two new small wetlands, restoring drainage pathways, re-establishing native plant species, and removing invasive species. Tree management efforts to address dead Ash trees infected by the invasive Emerald Ash Borer have been ongoing since 2024.
A new 1 km trail loop was completed by SNC in Fall 2024 on the property which provides more access to the Conservation Area and will remain open during temporary daytime trail closures in other sections of the property to support the wetland restoration.
The Two Creeks Forest Conservation Area is a popular destination for nature lovers, bird watchers, and outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic trails and educational opportunities. The property contains two creeks connected to the St. Lawrence River and is one of the largest provincially significant coastal wetlands within the region. The park also receives most of its visitors during the winter months when the trails are groomed for use by cross-country skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts.
This work was made possible thanks to financial support from Enbridge Inc., as well as international contributors including North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) grants administered by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ducks Unlimited Inc., and state agencies through the Fall Flights Initiative.
A community tree planting day is planned for Spring 2025. This event will bring together local volunteers to celebrate the important work completed at the Two Creeks Forest.
For more information: Erin Thorne, Communications Specialist, ethorne@nation.on.ca, 1-877-984-2948.