I N T R O D U C I N G Long Point Walsingham Forest Priority Place ’s Priority Place for Species at Risk conservation

Located on the north shore of , Norfolk County is renowned for its fertile agricultural land, forests, beaches and coastal dunes, tallgrass communities and wetlands. The vision for the LPWF Priority Place is to create healthy, resilient, and con- nected ecosystems that support biodiversity, productive landscapes, and a thriving community. Photo: Leanne Gauthier-Helmer.

n August 2017, Long Point Forest Complex, which is also The land cover in LPWF Walsingham Forest (LPWF) was recognized as an Important Bird includes agriculture, forests, Iselected by the federal govern- Area. Over 400 species of birds beaches and coastal dunes, tall- ment as Ontario’s ‘Priority Place’ have been recorded in the Long grass communities, and wetlands. for species at risk conservation. Point area. LPWF has retained much of Located entirely within Norfolk While LPWF makes up less its natural integrity due to the County, LPWF is 86,715 hectares than 1% of Canada’s total land conservation and stewardship large and includes the longest area, it was selected as Ontario’s initiatives spearheaded by private freshwater sand spit in the world, priority place for the following landowners, conservation authori- Long Point. Long Point is an inter- reasons: ties, not-for-profit organizations, nationally recognized Ramsar site and government. 1) its high concentration of (wetlands of international impor- biodiversity, including over 80 spe- This conservation community tance), an international Monarch cies at risk; has been addressing the numerous Butterfly Reserve, a UNESCO threats affecting species at risk 2) the significant threats to its World Biosphere Reserve, and the and their habitats in LPWF. first globally significant Impor- biodiversity; and These threats include land use tant Bird Area in Canada. 3) its highly engaged local changes, fire suppression, roads, LPWF also includes the Norfolk conservation community. and invasive species. Boundaries of the Long Point Walsingham Forest Priority Place.

In Budget 2018, the Govern- species at risk, and to improve and ecosystems. Eff orts will be cies at risk, and opportunities to ment of Canada invested a its natural environment. concentrated on priority places, advance conservation eff orts. What is historic $1.35 billion to support The federal government, in species, sectors and threats In each priority place, the work with other governments, collaboration with the prov- across Canada, thus enabling federal and provincial or territo- Indigenous groups, non-profi t inces and territories, has agreed conservation partners to work rial governments will collabo- a “Priority organizations, and others in to implement the Pan-Canadian together and achieve better rate with partners to develop nature conservation. Approach to Transforming outcomes for species at risk. and implement a conservation This funding will support Species at Risk Conservation in A portion of this funding action plan coordinating ac- Place” Canada in reaching its biodiver- Canada. supports conservation eff orts tions to address the greatest sity goals, which are to protect This new approach will shift in 11 priority places identifi ed threats to species at risk. Such anyway? a quarter of its lands and a from a single-species conser- across Canada. Priority places actions include habitat steward- quarter of its oceans by 2025, vation approach to one that are areas with signifi cant biodi- ship, habitat restoration, and to create healthier habitats for focuses on multiple species versity, concentrations of spe- education and outreach.

May 2021 2 Ontario’s ‘Priority Place’ – May 2021

l l l The Long Point Walsingham Forest Priority Place Collaborative The LPWF Collaborative is a “working groups”. Each working partnership of over twenty non- group is implementing conserva- government and government or- tion actions that address priority ganizations that are committed to threats to species at risk and their improve biodiversity conservation habitats. The priority threats and in LPWF through the coordinated important habitats and species identification and implementation include: of priority conservation actions. o Threats: Roads, Invasive The Collaborative has devel- species, Agricultural Runoff, Fire oped an Integrated Conservation Suppression and Logging and Action Plan (ICAP) which identi- Wood Harvesting American Bullfrog. Bald eagle perched in a Sycamore tree. fies the highest priority actions for o Important Habitats and Spe- Photo: Darren Helmer Photo: Brian Craig improving ecosystem health and cies: Coastal Wetlands and Inner conserving species at risk. Bay, Open Country, Forests and The knowledge and expertise Treed Swamps, Watercourses and of the Collaborative is integral to Riparian Areas and Amphibians The importance fulfilling the vision of the LPWF and Reptiles ICAP, which is to create healthy, re- Environment and Climate silient and connected ecosystems Change Canada has invested ap- that support biodiversity, produc- proximately $4.5 million in federal of biodiversity and tive landscapes and a thriving funding to conservation projects in community. LPWF from 2018-2021. The Collabor- Within the Collaborative, there ative has matched that investment are five subset committees called with approximately $6.6 million. protecting Species at Risk Road Ecology Working Group Members: Ontario Road Ecology Group, Long Point World Biosphere Re- in the Priority Place serve Foundation, and Canadian Wildlife Service Goal: Reduce wildlife road mortality by enhancing road infrastructure to When ecosystems are functioning well, facilitate safe movement of wildlife across the landscape. Although we might not they provide us with important benefits, For additional information, or to get involved, please contact: always recognize it, plants Mandy Karch, Executive Director, Ontario Road Ecology Group including clean air, clean water, and fer- [email protected] and animals play a huge role tile land to grow healthy food. They can also help mitigate the effects of climate Invasive Species (Phragmites australis) Working Group in keeping our environment change. For example, ecosystems such as Members: Nature Conservancy of Canada, Ontario Ministry of Natural Re- healthy and balanced. forests, wetlands, and grasslands absorb sources and Forestry, and Canadian Wildlife Service and store carbon dioxide and greenhouse Goals: Biodiversity is a term used broadly to gases from the atmosphere. 1. By 2025, 90% of the vegetation in the Coastal Wetlands and Beaches and describe the enormous variety and vari- The Long Point Walsingham Forest Coastal Dunes ecosystems is native. ability of life on Earth. It can also be used Priority Place is an incredibly biodiverse 2. Maintain and improve the riparian zone so that 75% is vegetated with more specifically to refer to all of the spe- area. It is located in a part of Canada native plants cies in one region or ecosystem. For additional information, or to get involved, please contact: referred to as the Carolinian Life Zone. The term “ecosystem” refers to groups Eric Cleland, Director, Nature Conservancy of Canada This fragile ecoregion is found in both [email protected] or plants, animals, and other organisms the eastern United States and southern that are found in the same area and inter- Ontario. It is characterized by mixed leaf Agricultural Runoff Working Group act with each other. These interactions forests, although deciduous (broad leaf) Members: ALUS Norfolk Inc., Norfolk County, Long Point Region Conserva- form the environments we know and trees predominate. tion Authority, Carolinian Canada Coalition, Long Point Basin Land Trust, Ontario recognize, such as the different forests, Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, and Canadian Wildlife Service wetlands, and other ecosystems around While this vegetation zone takes up Goals: Norfolk County. less than 1% of Canada’s total land area, 1. Maintain and improve the riparian zone so that 75% is vegetated with it contains a greater number of plant and Balance within these ecosystems native plants animal species than any other vegetation 2. By 2025, at least 50% of surface water samples meet the provincial water requires the continuation of these zone in Canada! quality objective for phosphorus (0.03 mg/L for streams and rivers). interactions, and the decline or loss of For additional information, or to get involved, please contact: one species often triggers the decline or Preserving the biodiversity of the Stephanie Giles, Program Coordinator, ALUS Norfolk Inc. loss of others. This is why it is important Priority Place is essential to ensure that [email protected] to preserve biodiversity and all species, the benefits we receive from healthy and Open Country Working Group especially threatened or endangered Spe- functioning ecosystems are preserved for cies at Risk. future generations. Members: Nature Conservancy of Canada, Natural Resource Solutions Inc., Tallgrass Ontario, St. Williams Conservation Reserve, Ontario Plant Restoration Alliance, ALUS Norfolk Inc., Long Point Basin Land Trust, Ontario Nature, and Canadian Wildlife Service Goal: Maintain existing Open Country habitat and restore additional areas, prioritizing sites where: existing habitat patches can be increased in size, habitat patches >=5 ha can be created, patch connectivity is best achieved and/or there are opportunities for long-term management. For additional information, or to get involved, please contact: Kristen Bernard, Program Director – Southwestern Ontario, Nature Conser- vancy of Canada [email protected] Forests and Treed Swamps Working Group Members: ALUS Norfolk, , Canadian Wildlife Service, Long Point Basin Land Trust, Long Point Region Conservation Authority, Long Point World Biosphere Reserve Foundation, Nature Conservancy of Canada, Norfolk County, Norfolk Woodlot Owners Association, St. Williams Conservation Reserve Goal: Maintain existing 2018 Forests and Treed Swamps cover and where possible increase/improve interior forest habitat and connectivity through ad- ditional forested acreage and forested corridors by 2050. For additional information, or to get involved, please contact: Ian Fife, Ontario Forest Birds Program Coordinator [email protected]

The next few pages will provide information on the collective actions that working group members are undertaking to meet the conservation Mating Monarch butterflies. Trout lily (Erythronium americanum). goals set by the Collaborative in the ICAP. Photo: Brian Craig Photo: Emily Sykes Long Point Walsingham Forest – May 2021 3 Your good driving habits can help protect Species at Risk The network of roads that the Ontario Road Ecology Group to bask on the surface due to the vidual actions anyone can do crisscross Southern Ontario is (OREG) and chair of the Road heat that roads absorb and be- anytime they drive to help. constantly growing as develop- Ecology Working Group. Apart cause of nesting substrate found “The public is a key partner ment expands. While these roads from mortality due to collisions, on road shoulders, putting them in determining how roads and are important in our daily lives, roads fragment and alter the at increased danger to be hit. traffic affect biodiversity,” says they alter the landscape and have habitats they cut through and Norfolk County was selected Karch. “Motorist behaviour, such l l l a significant impact on biodiver- cause pollution from things like as a Priority Place largely due to as driving speed and attentive- sity. exhaust, chemicals, and road salt, the well-known biodiversity here, ness, tremendously influences Road Ecology “Roads are a primary threat as well as light and noise pollu- and some of its most significant whether or not a wildlife/vehicle for many species,” says Mandy tion. Wildlife such as turtles and Species at Risk, primarily turtles collision will occur.” Working Group Karch, Executive Director of snakes are often drawn to roads and other reptiles and amphib- Karch lists some important ians, directly feel the impact from ways you can help keep wildlife Road ecology is the roads and traffic. safe while driving: study of the interactions Altering road infrastructure o Watch for wildlife, espe- between the environ- to consider the local ecology is an cially when driving on roads that ment and roads. Roads important step to reduce wildlife bisect wetland, forest, or field and traffic pose a risk to mortality and habitat fragmenta- habitat tion. The Long Point Causeway o Don’t litter! Even biode- biodiversity and cause Improvement Project, which gradable food items pose a risk as habitat fragmentation. began back in 2006, involved they draw wildlife to the roadside The collaborative Road installing 4.5 kilometers of exclu- to feed, putting them in danger of Ecology Working Group sion fencing to keep wildlife off a collision the roads and special culverts to o If you stop to help a turtle aims to reduce road allow them to pass safely under cross the road, always move it in mortality of Species at the road. Researchers have found the direction it is heading, and Risk and improve habitat these measures led to nearly 89 only when safe for you and other connectivity in the Long percent fewer turtles making it motorists. Use a car mat or blan- onto the causeway. Because of ket for snapping turtles if you’re Point Walsingham Forest. the clear success of this project unsure how to handle them, and The priorities of this in reducing road mortality of never lift a turtle by its tail. group are to: wildlife, the Road Ecology Work- o Watch for wildlife cross- Painting of a Blanding’s Turtle being carried across a road ing Group is looking to install ing signs and obey speed limits. l Increase awareness while a snake, frog and snapping turtle wait their turn, by Long infrastructure at other hotspots Sufficient reaction time is key on the threat of roads Point artist Cindy Presant. Photo: ECCC in the Priority Place. to safely avoiding collision with to wildlife and engage There are also a lot of indi- wildlife. the local community in stewardship efforts l Collaborate with One structure, two purposes... Norfolk County to in- corporate road ecology How well-planned an increasing frequency due to guidelines in municipal climate change. infrastructure can “Biodiversity-led infrastruc- operations ture serves multiple objectives l Install and maintain address both biodi- and achieves safe, efficient transportation for residents dedicated road mitiga- versity protection and visitors across the County,” tion infrastructure (e.g. and climate change says Mandy Karch, Chair of the fencing, ecopassages) for Road Ecology Working group in Species at Risk amphib- adaptation goals the LPWF. “As municipalities ians and reptiles assess infrastructure and plan Road ecology, the study of the for climate change adaptation Partner organiza- interactions between the environ- strategies, considering road tions within this group ment and roads, offers important ecology principles and practices include: Ontario Road land-use planning tools which are integral to completing an can help adapt to the effects of economically and ecologically Ecology Group (OREG), climate change. responsible process.” Norfolk County, Eco-Kare Climate change is a global is- With this in mind, the Road International, Long Point sue, which often makes it feel like Ecology Working Group is look- World Biosphere Reserve actions taken locally or individu- ing for ways to include wildlife ally are insignificant. In reality, and Species at Risk planning that Foundation, and Canadi- we are experiencing the effects Turtle using a culvert, allowing it to move through its habitat align with projects or upgrades an Wildlife Service as well on a global and local scale. Even without the danger of being on a road. Photo: Rick Levick for Norfolk County road plans. as local community and local or small-scale mitigation They compare where road naturalist groups. techniques and technologies can help buffer the effects of weather life from being on the roads and upgrades are already needed in have a cumulative impact. events. They can store flood to enable them to move through Norfolk County with wildlife You can participate The climate crisis and the water, recharge creeks during a their habitat at safe locations. crossing hotspots in order to rec- in efforts to mitigate biodiversity crisis are connected. drought, stop storm surges, and While these infrastructure op- ommend road mortality mitiga- the threats of roads to Biodiversity loss – for example, provide fire breaks. But healthy tions help mitigate the threats of tion infrastructure to be included loss of forested land or wetlands ecosystems require species diver- roads to Species at Risk, they also in these upgrades. wildlife by following the – results in emissions of green- sity to properly function. have the opportunity to mitigate This method of allocating tips below and reporting house gases. Healthy ecosystems, The Road Ecology Working the impacts of climate change. funds to install and maintain wildlife/road interaction such as wetlands, can help reduce Group is collaborating to protect The same culverts which allow infrastructure will help preserve sightings to iNaturalist: greenhouse gases in the atmo- biodiversity in the Priority Place species to move under the roads biodiversity and mitigate local sphere by capturing and holding by mitigating road mortality, can also help accommodate in- climate change impacts, and https://inaturalist.ca/proj- onto carbon. Not only that, but which results in installing road creased water flows from extreme as Mandy Karch says, is data- ects/wildlife-on-roads-in- wetlands, such as those found infrastructure such as fencing weather events. These extreme informed and both economically ontario. around Norfolk County, can also and culverts to both prevent wild- weather events are occurring at and ecologically responsible. Be a citizen scientist in the Priority Place Driving down roads can provide good scape for safe transportation and wildlife Surveying a road or simply reporting an ence,” explains Karch. “Citizen Science is opportunities to see wildlife. Unfortu- protection,” says Mandy Karch. opportunistic sighting all contributes volunteer-based ecological monitoring that nately, these sightings sometimes occur as “Concerned residents are dedicated important data that helps prioritize and plays a key role in successful conservation roadkill. to resolving road ecology issues and help inform the mitigation process and respon- initiatives.” Some species may be attracted to roads protect local wildlife populations by report- sible spending of mitigation dollars. This Citizen science is a great way for the to feed, bask, or nest, which puts animals, ing observed wildlife/road interactions. form of data collection is called Citizen Sci- community to be a part of conservation ac- especially slow-moving animals such as tions and help shape the landscape for safe turtles and snakes, at risk of a collision. wildlife movement. The Priority Place is home to many Species The best way the public can help is at Risk whose populations are decreasing to report your sightings to iNaturalist, a as a result of these collisions. nation-wide citizen science wildlife report- No single agency is able to monitor the ing platform, to the Wildlife on Roads in vast road network found in Norfolk County, Ontario project at https://inaturalist.ca/ and this is where the public can play an projects/wildlife-on-roads-in-ontario. important part by reporting wildlife or If you’re interested in doing more as a wildlife-vehicle collisions. citizen scientist in Ontario’s Priority Place, “When the public reports wildlife/road please contact project partner Kari at interaction sightings (alive or dead), this Eco-Kare International. Email: wildlifeon- data can be used to inform and prioritize Norfolk County resident John Everett safely helping a turtle cross the road [email protected]; call or text 705-933- mitigation strategies that improve the land- near marsh. Photo: John Everett 8430. 4 Ontario’s ‘Priority Place’ – May 2021 Success in invasive Phragmites control requires a collaborative approach Phragmites australis is a tall grass normal. sions that took place during that Habitat biologist at CWS, the species with origins in Europe be- The impact of invasive Phrag- gathering formed the groundwork leadership of the MNRF and NCC lieved to be introduced to Canada mites on these ecosystems has for a coordinated control effort in has been the key to the success of in the late 1800s. In Ontario, there a direct impact on people too, the Long Point region. This day led this program. “The province and l l l is also a native species of Phrag- says Eric Cleland, Director of to the creation of the Long Point NCC have built a program that has mites found in similar habitats the Invasive Species Program for Phragmites Action Alliance,” says gained community support and is Invasive however it grows in balance with the Ontario region at the Nature Cleland. resulting in positive changes for other native vegetation and must Conservancy of Canada, “invasive This collaborative is made up of wildlife and SAR. We have a goal Species be protected as part of any man- Phragmites can impact critical 29 partnering organizations which to manage 90% of the Phragmites agement plans. items in our daily lives like infra- include all levels of government, in the Priority Place, and I am con- (Phragmites The aggressive invasive Phrag- structure, property values, and environmental control groups, and fident that together we can achieve australis) mites began being monitored by agricultural productivity, along local landowners with interests that goal.” biologists in the wetlands of Long with the recreational and envi- in conserving and managing the While this work is ongoing, Working Group Point over 20 years ago. Since ronmental values that make the diverse wetland habitat within the these groups can be proud of what then, the growth and spread of Priority Place so important.” Long Point region. they’ve accomplished so far. Since The Phragmites Working this species at Long Point has been Phragmites can be exception- “It’s critically important to 2016, over 1,400 hectares in the Group is a collaborative exponential. ally tricky to remove once it’s work collaboratively to ensure Long Point area have undergone team targeting the sig- Phragmites is an aggressive become established in an area no populations are left behind,” invasive Phragmites control in invader, growing up to 6 metres in due to its deep root system and says Cleland, “If one area is left a multi-phase strategy. Despite nificant threat of the inva- height, crowding out native vegeta- fast spread, but targeting this untreated, Phragmites can rapidly Covid-19 this work is slated to sive species Phragmites tion and reducing biodiversity invasive species is an important re-invade, jeopardizing the whole continue and build in 2021, largely australis throughout the by producing dense monoculture task to make sure our wetlands program. Control at a landscape through the Phragmites Work- Long Point Walsingham stands. These stands impact native and ecosystems are healthy and scale is only feasible where land- ing Group, with funding from the species, especially Species at Risk, functioning. owners and organizations work Canadian Wildlife Service, MNRF, Forest Priority Place since they provide poor habitat In 2015, NCC and MNRF spear- together to pool funds, labour, US Fish and Wildlife Service and (LPWF). and food for wildlife, and impede headed a gathering of stakehold- skills, and equipment.” several other private supporters. the ecosystem from functioning as ers: “the presentations and discus- According to Heather Braun, Team members, including: The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS), On- tario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF), Birds Canada (BC), and the Long Point Phragmites Action Alli- ance (LPPAA) are address- ing priorities such as: l Implementing a long-term landscape- scale management plan Before (left) and after (right) treatment for Phragmites in Turkey Point, showing native species re-establishing. Photo: NCC for Phragmites on private and public lands in the LPWF Innovation in Phragmites control

l Improving habitat Organizations in the Long Point because it is the most effective Biocontrol is not necessar- plants to re-establish.” through treatment of area have adopted an integrated method of control for large scale ily a new method, but it’s one Building on over 20 years Phragmites, second- approach to Phragmites manage- applications,” says Eric Cleland that’s gaining traction and being of research in the area, two ary re-treatment, and ment involving a wide range of of NCC. investigated for use in the area. moth species which are natural removal of dead Phrag- methods, each one required to Additional measures, such as It involves introducing a natural predators of invasive Phragmites deal with special circumstances, rolling, cutting, burning or even enemy of an invasive species to have been found to be promising mites stands in an effort to eradicate Phrag- a combination of these are often re-establish a natural balance. biocontrol agents. They pose a l Enhancing coastal mites and protect our wetlands. necessary to fully eradicate this “One of the best examples of a minimal risk to native species “An aquatic herbicide is used aggressive species as part of an successful biocontrol in Ontario and if successful could offer an wetlands, shorelines, and in the Long Point region under a integrated pest management is for Purple Loosestrife, where additional tool to control Phrag- riparian areas special permission from Health program (IPM). the release of European leaf-eat- mites as part of an IPM. Canada; this unique tool is ing beetles achieved wide-scale l Monitoring Species Cleland notes that they’re While no single method can not available anywhere else in always on the lookout for new control,” explains Cleland. “The rid our wetlands of invasive at Risk encountered and Canada. Long Point was chosen control methods. “It’s always im- beetles are natural enemies of Phragmites, it’s exciting to see the effects of manage- to pilot this method due to the portant. New methods can help purple loosestrife, and they feed the ongoing research and work ment on aquatic systems imminent impacts to wildlife, in reduce the impacts of control, primarily on the plant. This bio- being done by dedicated orga- particular Species at Risk. An ur- show improved results for people logical control of purple loose- nizations to help mitigate its gent response was required, and and the environment, and reduce strife can reduce populations by impact. aquatic herbicide were chosen management costs.” up to 90 per cent and allow native Private landowners can help manage invasive species The Phragmites management program was initiated in the wetlands of Long Point but has since spread into the upper watersheds. In 2019, a This map shows the aquatic control subcommittee of the LPPAA developed an implementation plan for the area of the Big Creek watershed where entire Big Creek Watershed focused on engaging landowners and help- the LPPAA will be focused in 2021. All ing to provide them with control services for their properties. Norfolk County landowners not in the The Big Creek Watershed Control Implementation Plan divides the watershed will have dry land control watershed into 8 sections or “phases”. Since it’s inception it has been well services available. received, enrolling over 200 parcels and completing control work on over 75 parcels of land with no sign of slowing down. “Landowners are an important part of Phragmites control for two rea- sons,” says Brett Norman, Invasive Species Program Coordinator at Nature Conservancy of Canada. “For one, landowners can provide access for control of Phragmites on their properties. This ensures that their property is not a seed source for future infestations. Two, landowners can help pass on information. Many people don’t know what Phragmites is, why it’s bad, or that control services exist. We invest a lot of time working with landowners to ensure they are aware of the issues.” This program allows landowners to tap into the resources needed to target Phragmites, including professional contractor services, specialized equipment, and aquatic herbicides where applicable. “These services are provided free of charge, allowing landowners to address an issue on their properties that they may otherwise not have the capability to do,” says Norman. The program is now open to anyone who owns land in Norfolk County. Landowners wishing to join the program can do so by emailing the LPPAA at [email protected] or by visiting our website at www.longpointphragmites.ca. Long Point Walsingham Forest – May 2021 5 WILD AT HEART l l l Agriculture ALUS Norfolk helped the Boothbys create a native prairie grass buffer zone between a ravine and an agricultural field. Photo: the Boothbys Nutrient Runoff of their 51-acres into the ALUS between a ravine and agricul- form their property into land that Working Group ALUS Norfolk Norfolk program. Their projects tural field - helps mitigate erosion, also works for wildlife. Kathryn participants Kathryn produce ecosystem services such reduces sediments and nutrients has participated on the boards of This collaborative group as cleaner air, cleaner water and entering the waterway, and pro- several local conservation groups. and Michael Boothby greater biodiversity that benefit vides habitat for pollinators and in the Priority Place is Indeed, many of their ALUS are on a mission to the entire community. grassland birds. projects began with assistance working to keep our “Being involved with ALUS To help declining aerial insec- from other organizations, such water clean by mitigating create wildlife habitat means being part of a like-minded tivores, ALUS helped install two as Long Point Region Conserva- excessive nutrient runoff community. You are able to learn dozen nesting boxes for Eastern tion Authority, Ontario Power ALUS Norfolk is a non-profit orga- into our coastal wetlands from others, and share experienc- Bluebirds and Tree Swallows. The Generation, Norfolk Stewardship nization that works with farmers es and challenges,” says Kathryn. Boothby’s added Purple Martin Council, Long Point Basin Land and Lake Erie. on their marginal lands to produce One of the Boothbys ALUS housing which now supports 54 Trust, and Ontario Soil and Crop The priorities of this ecosystem services that benefit the projects is a dug-out wetland for breeding pairs. Improvement Association. Addi- farm and society as a whole. ALUS group include: amphibians, reptiles, and birds. Even before joining ALUS, the tional projects have been support- Norfolk participants Kathryn and Another - a prairie grass buffer Boothbys worked hard to trans- ed by Carolinian Canada, Nature l Restore land with Michael Boothby have incorpo- Canada, Ducks Unlimited Canada NEW natural features rated wildlife corridors, erosion and Environment and Climate controls, pollinator habitat, such as suitable wildlife Change Canada. wildlife nesting structures, and To date over 8,000 trees have habitat other conservation features on been planted. Hundreds of shrubs l Preserve drain cor- their cash-crop operation located and wildflowers have been added, within Ontario’s Priority Place - ridors through modified and snake nesting structures and Long Point Walsingham Forest. brush and rock piles have been practices Part of the Priority Place funding created and are used by at-risk l Promote best man- provided by Environment and reptiles and other species. Climate Change Canada – Ca- agement practices (BMPs) Kathryn and Michael Boothby nadian Wildlife Service allows are on a mission to create wildlife to landowners ALUS Norfolk to support restora- habitat on their land that benefits l Increase the num- tion and management of natural the natural world and ALUS Nor- ecosystems, such as those on the ber of hectares planted in folk is very happy to help. Boothby’s farm. One of the Boothby’s ALUS projects consists of a dug-out To learn more about ALUS Nor- cover crops Since joining in 2012, the wetland, which they now maintain as habitat for numerous am- folk, contact Steph Giles, Program Partner organizations Boothbys have enrolled over eight phibian and reptile species, as well as birds. Photo: the Boothbys Coordinator at (519) 420-8127. within this group include: ALUS (Alternative Land Use Services) Norfolk, Municipal drain maintenance to help preserve habitat Canadian Wildlife Ser- Municipal drains are a fixture of are important habitat for many occurs. ments to mitigate or offset any vice, Long Point Region rural Ontario’s landscape and a endangered or protected species. Managed vegetation removal environmental impacts. This Conservation Authority, vital element of Norfolk County Norfolk County Drainage Ser- along drain corridors helps to partnership allows for some of Norfolk County Drainage infrastructure. In Norfolk County vices has been collaborating with maintain flow and access, and these requirements to be fulfilled Services, and Carolinian alone there are approximately the Agricultural Runoff Work- identify issues such as blockages while mitigating costs that would 1,000 kilometers of municipal ing Group to help maintain and or erosion. By minimizing the have otherwise been assumed Canada. drains, servicing over 60,000 hect- restore biodiversity within the amount of vegetation removed by stakeholders on the drainage We are always looking ares of land and 24,000 residents. Long Point Walsingham Forest and enhancing buffers in these systems. for interested landowners Most municipal drains are Priority Place. areas erosion, sedimentation, Through this partnership, constructed to improve agri- The department is achieving and agricultural runoff are re- Norfolk County Drainage Ser- within the Priority Place. cultural productivity, increase this goal by modifying drainage duced. This approach improves vices has preserved over 10 km of Please contact one of the drainage in specific areas, and practices to remove vegetation bank stability and reduces the drain corridors and restored 20 relevant organizations provide a stormwater manage- on only one side where practi- demand for drain maintenance. km of maintained drain corri- mentioned in the articles ment system. By safely trans- cal during routine maintenance. It also allows for more habitat to dors across Norfolk County. below if you would like porting surface and subsurface Part of the funding provided remain intact, maintaining cover, For more information or to runoff from rainfall events, they by Environment and Climate shade, and food for fish and other learn about establishing buffers more information about also prevent flooding and reduce Change Canada – Canadian species. along the municipal drain on your getting involved. public health risks. All municipal Wildlife Service is then used to In recent years agencies that property, contact Morgan Van drains eventually connect with restore and enhance drain corri- regulate drainage works have Laeken, Drainage Program Coor- rivers, streams, and lakes, which dors after the vegetation removal included additional require- dinator at 519 426 5870 ext. 1118. Six generations of the Boyd family value farming as a way of life

he Boyd’s farm has been ALUS Norfolk and LPRCA mately reducing input costs.” in the family since 1865, so are proud collaborators in the Even better, there is financial Tthey are familiar with the Priority Place Agriculture Runoff incentive to sign up. If you are joys and challenges of farming. working group along with other interested in learning more about Brian Boyd and his son Greg organizations such as Norfolk the cover crop program or to see are happy to collaborate with or- County Drainage Services, the if you are eligible, please contact ganizations such as ALUS Norfolk Canadian Wildlife Service and Paul Gagnon, Lands & Waters and Long Point Region Conserva- Carolinian Canada. Supervisor with LPRCA at (519) tion Authority (LPRCA) to carry Another objective is planting 842-4242 ext. 232. out land stewardship. cover crops on farms within the Brian worked with these orga- Priority Place. nizations to create a wetland on “Cover the farm which was then seeded crops provide with native grasses, wildflowers, lots of ben- trees, and shrubs to help prevent Brian Boyd with his son Greg and grand kids. Greg is the efits”, accord- soil loss and mitigate nutrient ing to Paul runoff into Lake Erie. sixth generation to farm on the Boyd farm and is also the owner Gagnon, Lands “I feel ALUS is well suited for of Heritage Lane Produce. Photo: ALUS Norfolk & Waters Su- my farms. The wetlands and tree pervisor from planting projects make good sense ed ALUS projects at his own farm. planting to mitigate soil degrada- LPRCA. “They on land that can’t support grain Greg is the owner of Heritage tion caused by tillage and has can help limit production,” says Brian. “[ALUS Lane Produce and can be found widened grassed waterways to the amount of Norfolk] understands the im- at numerous farmer’s markets stabilize runoff. erosion that portance of achieving a balance within Norfolk and Oxford “No-till farming combined occurs within County. With the Covid-19 pan- with the waterways ability to between agriculture and conser- a given year. Brian Boyd’s wetland being dug. After the vation”. demic restrictions, Greg was able filter water runoff means that the They build Brian’s son Greg is the sixth to transition to customers picking water entering the drainage net- soil health and wetland was created, the soils were seeded with generation to farm on the Boyd up produce on a weekly basis. work is now clear and free from minimize weed a mix of native plant and tree species. farm, and he has also incorporat- Greg has adapted to no-till sediment,” says Greg. pressure, ulti- Photo: ALUS Norfolk 6 Ontario’s ‘Priority Place’ – May 2021 Prescribed burns a gateway for bringing

l l l butterfly species Open Country Working Group back to Norfolk

The collaborative Open The Mottled Duskywing butterfly with minimal tree cover. Oak Country working group is (Erynnis martialis), an endan- savannas are a grassland that is gered species afforded protection lightly forested, predominantly working to preserve rare under the Endangered Species Act with oak trees. Both are dynamic and important tallgrass (ESA), hasn’t been spotted in and environments with extremely prairie habitat in the around Backus Woods and St. Wil- high biodiversity and ecologi- Long Point Walsingham liams Forestry Reserve in Norfolk cal benefits, however only about County since the late 1980s. 3% of the historical coverage of Forest (LPWF) Priority Like many butterflies, the tallgrass communities remains in Place. Mottled Duskywing is selective Ontario. New Jersey Tea is important for pollinators, is a nitrogen-fixer, and is the main food plant for the Mottled Duskywing butterfly. Open County refers to about where it lives and what it These ecosystems benefit from eats. It relies on New Jersey Tea, a low intensity fires, which rejuve- Photo: Mary Gartshore any vegetation commu- deciduous shrub, as its host plant. nate the landscape by restoring nity where the combined Their habitat in Ontario consists nutrients to the soil and clearing Mottled Duskywing butterfly and support many other Species at cover of trees and shrubs of rare and globally important away non-native and woody plants restoration of the oak savanna Risk as well, including other ar- over 1 m tall is less than habitats, such as tall grass prairie encroaching in these ecosystems. and woodland habitats the Mottled thropods, migratory birds, snakes, Duskywing relies on. and more. 60%, excluding agricul- and oak savanna. Tallgrass prairie This is why prescribed fire is a is first and foremost a grassland common management tool done In the LPWF, members of the This project site is considered a tural lands. It encompass- safely by licences professionals in Team are working with the Open significant and exciting part of a es tallgrass communities, tallgrass prairie habitats. Country Working Group to restore larger Mottled Duskywing recov- which support significant Due to the loss of this habitat and enhance tallgrass prairie ery initiative because it involves habitat on NCC lands identified as creating habitat where it formerly biodiversity, and their over time in part through fire suppression, species such as the great candidate sites for reintro- existed, providing opportunities deep roots prevent soil Mottled Duskywing have experi- duction of the Mottled Dusky- for future recovery activities. erosion and help clean enced reductions in populations. wing. The Open Country Working The Recovery Team is plan- the air and water. The Open Country Working Group, with funding from Cana- ning its first reintroduction of Group is working with the Ontario dian Wildlife Service, is actioning the Mottled Duskywing to Pinery Over the next 2 years, Butterfly Species at Risk Recovery several stewardship activities Provincial Park in 2021. This will the group will be working Team. This Team is comprised include prescribed burns, conifer be the first reintroduction of an together to: of members from government plantation management, removal endangered butterfly species in departments, parks and conser- of invasive species, and planting Ontario and paves the way for l Develop a database vation authorities, conservation native wildflowers that provide similar recovery activities in Nor- on historical and restored organizations, academic institu- a food source for pollinators. An folk County in the future. tallgrass prairie in the tions, relevant private organiza- emphasis has been placed on seed- Not only is this project setting LPWF tions, as well as expert entomolo- ing of New Jersey Tea to support the stage to bring back a species The endangered Mottled gists and restoration practitioners the Mottled Duskywing, although that was previously lost here, but l Collaborate on Duskywing butterfly. who are working across the the stewardship activities on these it is also restoring and enhancing restoration and manage- Photo: Jessica Linton province on the recovery of the sites within the Priority Place will globally important ecosystems. ment activities on private and public lands to improve the condition of tallgrass prairie (like pre- Long Point Basin Land Trust scribed fire and planting more native flowers) Is Restoring Oak Savannas l Provide opportuni- ties for the public to learn In Ontario, oak savannas occur in scattered locations, often as about tallgrass prairie tiny remnants. Most savannas in ecosystems and their Ontario have been converted to management conifer plantations or other uses. Long Point Basin Land Trust l Support private (LPBLT) was created 25 years ago landowners looking to with the goal to protect nature manage, restore and and biodiversity, which it does maintain open country through land purchases and donations. To date, LPBLT has habitat on their lands acquired ten properties, three of Partner organizations which historically supported dry within this group include: oak savannas and are currently being restored or enhanced using Natural Resource Solu- ECCC funding through the Open tions Inc., Nature Conser- Country Working Group. vancy of Canada, Long One property is the 50-acre Point Basin Land Trust, Stead Family Scientific Reserve, which was formerly 50% in mar- St. Williams Conservation ginal tobacco production and 50% Reserve, ALUS Norfolk, Black Oak Woodland. Ken Stead Canadian Wildlife Service, purchased it to create an oak Local volunteers begin planting acorns in April 1995 at Stead Family Scientific Reserve. and Ontario Nature. savanna insect reserve in memory Photo: Mary Gartshore of his father. In 1994, with the help of volunteers from the Norfolk Costner’s quote in the movie Field American Hazel, Winged Sumac erty is adjacent to Norfolk County Field Naturalists and funding of Dreams: “if you build it, they and Shagbark Hickory. Invasive forests and together they are large from Carolinian Canada and will come,” can also be applied to exotic trees and shrubs are be- enough to protect many signifi- TreePlan Canada, locally collected ecological restoration. Work con- ing removed and the non-native, cant species. In recent years, we seeds, seedlings, and roots from tinues on the property to remove cool-season grasses controlled. have noted singing Whip-poor- the woodland edges were planted the invasive exotic Autumn Olive Once this is complete, new seed wills and Hoary Bats, Ontario’s in the fields. Now, 27 years later, and Eurasian cool-season grasses. will enhance the site. Even now largest bat. In the openings, un- the planted area is a functional In 2018, Ken Stead generously it is a great place to bird watch derstory and edges are remnant Black Oak Savanna with much donated this wonderful place to and there are nice views of the ra- populations of oak savanna plants of the expected native plants and LPBLT as a scientific reserve in vines and floodplain below along ready to reclaim their place. Trout animals returning, and even some honour of his family. . Creek Nature Reserve has a lot surprises worth noting. Bait sta- Another oak savanna reserve The third oak savanna newly of regenerating Red Maple and tions have revealed two new moth managed by the LPBLT, Spring acquired by the LPBLT is a 193- White Pine that compete seri- species for Canada, the Shivering Arbour farm, was partially acre Trout Creek Nature Reserve ously with oak savanna habitats. Pinion (Lithophane querquera) cleared and replanted. Approxi- northeast of Pinegrove. It has These stands will be thinned so and Roadside Sallow (Metaxaglaea Native wildflowers grow in mately half the property of been used for commercial conifer oaks, New Jersey Tea, Rock Rose, viatica), and the rare Thaxter’s a field previously cleared Spring Arbour farm is open old plantations and forestry in the Arrow-leaved Violet and many Sallow (Psaphida thaxterianus). through prescribed burning. fields with some regeneration past. It is mostly overgrown Black other oak savanna species can These discoveries show that Kevin Photo: NCC of prairie grasses, Black Oak, – Hill’s Oak savanna. This prop- flourish. Long Point Walsingham Forest – May 2021 7 Protecting forest birds at risk in the Priority Place Forest Birds at Risk program help landowners and managers make important conservation decisions to protect species at risk popula- tions and habitat. Keeping an eye on these populations also helps track the health of our old-growth forests. All four rapidly declining l l l birds are an indicator for old-growth forests in southwestern Ontario, meaning that seeing these birds indicates that a forest is healthy, Forests and diverse, and capable of withstanding some Treed Swamps forest health risks such as invasive species. In addition to bird surveys, The Ontario Working Group Forest Birds at Risk program takes advantage of their time in the forest to identify destruc- tive invasive species such as Gypsy Moths and The Forests and Treed Emerald Ash Borer, and provide information Swamps Working Group to land owners and managers in taking action collaborates to address against them. These invasive species are dev- forest fragmentation, astating our forests throughout southern On- tario. Potential invasive species, such as Oak invasive forest species, Wilt and Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, are also and degradation of An endangered Prothonotary Warbler. Photo: Sue Drotos surveyed for. These tree diseases are current- interior treed wetlands to ly ravaging oak and hemlock trees in north- keep these systems well- The Ontario Forest Birds at Risk program at (Endangered), and Prothonotary Warbler eastern North America. If these diseases spread, this would directly affect the Acadian functioning in the Long Birds Canada is very pleased to be a part of (Endangered). Project results are intended to Environment and Climate Change Canada’s direct conservation and stewardship efforts Flycatchers and the Louisiana Waterthrushes Point Walsingham Forest initiative to increase forest cover and con- over the short and long term. that depend on hemlock for nesting and forest (LPWF) Priority Place. nectivity within the Long Point Walsingham Ontario Forest Birds at Risk’s primary cover, as well as the Cerulean Warblers which Forest (LPWF) Priority Place. project objectives are to: nest in and around oak trees. The priorities of this Birds Canada is a non-profit charitable or- o Determine and monitor the location of “Over the past decade of completing group include: ganization with the mission to conserve wild the four target species at risk in the LPWF bird surveys, we’ve seen year after year birds through sound science, on-the-ground Priority Place that private landowners have been the most l Identify areas of actions, innovative partnerships, public o Search for and monitor nests to deter- important contributor to the success of spe- low forest connectiv- engagement, and science-based advocacy. The mine their outcome for three target species at cies at risk protection,” says Ian Fife of Birds ity and improve habitat Ontario Forest Birds at Risk program has risk in the LPWF Priority Place; Canada. “Of all four high priority species and increase forest cover been operating at Birds Canada since 2011 and o Identify forest health risks to the target the Ontario Forest Birds at Risk program has detected, approximately 25% of the species at through tree planting on completes extensive bird surveys throughout species at risk in the LPWF Priority Place southwestern Ontario as well as in the Fron- o Increase key audiences’ awareness risk are found in private landowner woodlots private lands tenac region of eastern Ontario. and understanding of the target species at and forests.” The Ontario Forest Birds at Risk program l Implement a Ontario Forest Birds at Risk goals in the risk and conservation needs, and to engage LPWF Priority Place are to improve the landowners and managers in stewardship for completes surveys at no charge, and welcomes project to monitor treed conservation status of four rapidly declining species at risk any person who wishes to have their woodlot wetland water levels on forest birds in southwestern Ontario’s forests: o Increase our understanding of Cerulean surveyed or who would like to find out more private and public lands Acadian Flycatcher (Endangered), Louisiana Warbler habitat preferences in Ontario about the Forest Birds at Risk program to Waterthrush (Threatened), Cerulean Warbler The surveys completed by the Ontario contact Ian Fife at [email protected] l Engage woodlot owners, forestry industry, and the public to increase awareness of and prac- Managing tice Species at Risk Best Management Practices invasive species l Develop a model for invasive species control in forested areas and implement invasive species control on private Norfolk County stands out among other south- ern Ontario regions both in the amount of and public lands wooded area and the diversity that comes with Partner organizations being located in the Carolinian forest region. The climate of this region allows the growth of within this group include: varied and rare species. In fact, there are more ALUS Norfolk, Birds rare or threatened species here than in any Canada, Canadian Wild- other Canadian biozone. life Service, Long Point Invasive species threaten this important diversity. Most invasive plant species occur Basin Land Trust, Long because they are introduced as an ornamental Point Region Conserva- plant which then spreads through the natural tion Authority, Long Point landscape, overtaking native plants and replac- World Biosphere Reserve ing natural forest diversity with a monocul- ture, or a single non-native species. Foundation, Nature This results in a loss of overall native Conservancy of Canada, biodiversity, leading to an increased number Norfolk County, Norfolk of species at risk or a complete loss of impor- An interior forest wetland in the LPWF Priority Place. Photo: Brian Craig Woodlot Owner’s Asso- tant insect and plant life. This is why targeting ciation, and St. Williams invasive species in wooded areas is a top prior- ity for the Forests and Treed Swamps Working Tree planting to increase Conservation Reserve Group. Community Council. “While we strive to maintain the natural and native landscape of Norfolk County, inva- forest cover and diversity sive species continue to expand throughout the region. Our goal is to reduce as many invasive Forest ecosystems face pressures from many One goal of the tree planting is to species as possible,” says Ian Fife, chair of the natural and human stressors, such as inva- increase forest connectivity. Landscape Forests and Treed Swamps Working Group. sive species, agricultural production, and connectivity broadly refers to the degree to “This initiative will be used to target woody climate change. These pressures result in which the landscape facilitates or impedes stemmed invasive species such as European reduced native diversity and fragmented for- movement among resource patches. By iden- Buckthorn, Autumn Olive, and Multi-flora ests, which restrict the movement of plants tifying areas of low forest connectivity, the Rose to name a few.” and animals, and degraded ecosystems that Working Group can plant native tree species Using a portion of the funding received are less suitable for biodiversity. to enhance connectivity and allow increased from Environment and Climate Change Trees and forests are one of the most and easier movement of organisms between Canada – Canadian Wildlife Service, the Work- vital responses we have to address climate forested areas. This is an important factor ing Group has conducted surveys to locate in- change by removing carbon dioxide from for maintaining biodiversity. vasive species and determine the extent of the the atmosphere and storing it in the form Planting native tree species is also useful invasive species risk. The group has shared the of wood and vegetation, a process termed for increasing interior forest cover forest results of these surveys with land managers, “carbon sequestration.” diversity. Interior forests provide unique giving detailed locations of invasive species in A priority for the Forests and Treed habitat favored by many important plants their woodlots. This information will be used Swamps Working Group is to engage in and animals since it is more secluded and to prioritize problem areas where management actions to increase forest health within the less vulnerable than forest edges which activities will be conducted using direct ap- Priority Place. A portion of the funding pro- are close to developed or agricultural land. plication of an herbicide which will not affect vided by Environment and Climate Change By increasing forest cover and native tree Canada – Canadian Wildlife Service will be diversity in interior forest areas, the Forests An endangered other plants. By reducing woody invasive spe- cies, the Working Group is helping to restore used by this collaborative group to plant and Treed Swamps Working Group can help Cerulean Warbler. and maintain the important biodiversity of trees to increase forest cover and improve increase biodiversity and improve the func- Photo: Trish Snider wooded areas in the Priority Place. habitat. tioning of these important forest ecosystems. 8 Ontario’s ‘Priority Place’ – May 2021 A message from Long Point World Biosphere Reserve President Rick Levick

We acknowledge that we meet on the tra- ditional territories of the Attawanda- ron, Haudenosaunee, and Anishinaabe peoples and show respect today to the communities of the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory and the Missis- saugas of the Credit whose Treaty lands include the Long Point World Biosphere Reserve. The Biosphere We should be proud that a signifi- cant portion of the Long Point Bio- has been a source sphere Reserve (LPBR) was selected as “ a “Priority Place” because it recog- of economic stimulus nizes this community’s long history of conservation that goes back more than that led to jobs as well a century to the founding of Canada’s as better conservation practice. first forestry station in St. Williams. That tradition of conservation We are always looking at sustainability in the continues to the present day through long term, for the people who live here as well as the the work of many local agencies and birds and animals. The challenge always is: how do we get people community organizations within their own mandates or as part of collective to realize that ‘wow, I live in a Biosphere that’s unique in the world’?” efforts to preserve this area’s signifi- cant biodiversity. Two recent examples – Brian Craig are the success of the Long Point PAST PRESIDENT & DIRECTOR, LONG POINT WORLD BIOSPHERE RESERVE FOUNDATION Phragmites Action Alliance in remov- ing this invasive reed from the Long Point wetlands and the Long Point Long Point, the world’s longest freshwater sand spit, is home to a wide array of species, biodiverse ecosystems, and incredible scenery. Causeway Project in significantly Photo: John Kindury reducing reptile road mortality. Inset at top: Students from the University of Waterloo get hands-on learning about the important ecosystems in Norfolk County. That’s probably why the Priority Place project has employed the same Photo: Brian Craig. Lower photo: Painted Turtle. Photo: Leanne Gauthier Helmer cooperative approach by forming Working Groups to tackle the greatest threats faced by the Species at Risk that live here. Together, the mem- The Long Point Biosphere Reserve ber organizations of these Working Groups form the Long Point Walsing- ham Forest Collaborative. The Long Point Walsingham Forest Priority Place Important Bird and Biodiversity Area, and more. Such recogni- tions are important avenues to receiving support and funding One of the LPBR’s most important is within the Long Point Biosphere boundaries for conservation activities. More than that, they show broad roles is fostering collaboration and co- recognition of the site as important in many ways and to many operation among the many groups that Situated in Norfolk County, Long Point and the surrounding groups and people. Beyond these designations, Long Point and all recognize and value this area’s natu- watershed has the largest diversity of plants and animals in of Norfolk County is important to the people who live here, have ral heritage. Our involvement in the Canada and is a world-famous location for migrating birds and lived here, or visit here, and who appreciate the natural heritage LPWF includes engaging in steward- rare Carolinian forests. These and other ecological features led to this place has to offer. ship and outreach activities that help the designation of the Long Point area as a Biosphere Reserve by promote the conservation efforts of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organiza- the Collaborative and generate public tion (UNESCO) in 1986. awareness and support for the project. Biosphere Reserves are globally important ecosystems that For example, we developed a public are internationally recognized by UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere database of maps collected from (MAB) program. Today, there are 701 World Biosphere Reserves several different agencies and conser- spanning 124 countries, with 18 of these in Canada. While the vation organizations showing many Biosphere Reserve designation does not bring with it any new au- geospatial features of the Priority thorities over lands, water, or resources, its intent is to encourage Place and Norfolk County. We also local communities to combine conservation of biodiversity with created a story map in which Maya the sustainable community development. Blanding’s Turtle explains the threats In August 2017, a significant portion of the Long Point Bio- to her home in the Priority Place. The sphere Reserve was selected as a “Priority Place” for conservation LPBR developed and manage the Long of Species at Risk by the federal government. The designation as Point Walsingham Forest Priority the Long Point Walsingham Forest (LPWF) brings with it funding Place website, social media content, from the federal government, in collaboration with provincial and and print materials including this very territorial governments, to support the conservation work being newspaper insert. done locally by various groups and organizations. The LPWF Priority Place includes the Long Point Biosphere’s Our hope is that this insert helps significant areas: the core areas on Long Point and Backus woods; people recognize and celebrate the the buffer zone, which includes the Big Creek National Wildlife incredible biodiversity of this area Area and the Turkey Point marshes; and the zone of cooperation and take pride in this community’s in the southwestern portion of Norfolk County. long history of preserving it for future Having multiple designations in one area may seem confusing, Map of the Long Point Biosphere Reserve, showing the generations. especially given that Long Point itself holds even more recogni- Area of Cooperation (black border), Buffer Zone (red), and Rick Levick tions as an internationally recognized Ramsar wetland site, an the Core areas on Long Point and Backus Woods (orange).

Norfolk County is home to lush Carolinian forests and important biodiversity, and is renowned for great scenery and recreational activities such as kayaking adventures down Big Creek. Photo: Paddle Tales, photographer Mat Willder.

This insert was written and edited by Amy Sigvaldason, Priority Place Project Coordinator, Long Point World Biosphere Reserve Foundation, in collaboration with LPWF collaborative members and Environment and Climate Change Canada.