South Shore group invites public for spring stroll this Sunday

PRESERVING NATURE- The Nature Conservancy of Canada Hudgins-Rose property next to Ostrander Point Road in South Marysburgh. (Brian Coulson photo/NCC)

The South Shore Joint Initiative (SSJI) is inviting Prince Edward County residents and visitors alike to join them for a Sunday stroll.

On Sunday,  April 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. the SSJI will be hosting their annual Spring Stroll along the southern shore of Prince Edward county in the ward of South Marysburgh .

The walk will proceed along Helmer Rd. from County Rd. 13 and first explore a conservation project in the making. 

The Nature Conservancy of Canada’s (NCC) Brodeur project is immediately west of the Ostrander Point crown land block. The NCC has signed an agreement to purchase this property and is currently raising funds to conserve this private property in perpetuity.

Passing through the crown land block, those taking part in the tour  will reach NCC’s newly acquired Hudgin-Rose property on the eastern side. 

“This approximately 6-7 km walk will give us an opportunity to investigate parts of an exciting future conservation project, the crown land block and the Hudgin-Rose property,” said stroll leader Cheryl Anderson. “The area hosts unique butterflies and birds and the iconic Blanding’s Turtle.”

Anderson explained the  organization is working to secure protection of the public areas in the South Shore Important Bird and Biodiversity Area and the series of South Shore Strolls provides an opportunity for participants to learn about and appreciate the special habitat of the South Shore. 

The first Stroll was held in on the Civic holiday in Aug. 2018 and although the weather was very warm ,over twenty people participated in a two-day walk along Army Reserve and Hilltop Roads. 

“We welcome everyone to come out and experience the unique natural habitat of our Important Bird and Biodiversity Area.  This is a great opportunity to experience one of the County’s special places,” Anderson added.

Participants are advised to bring water and snacks and be prepared for wet roadways. 

Washroom facilities will be provided.

For more information or to register visit www.naturematters.eventbrite.ca .