South Nation

Crucial grasslands have been undergoing a steady decline in Eastern Ontario and South Nation Conservation (SNC) is working to slowly reduce the trend through projects that promote grassland restoration.

A main focus this year is the restoration of 25 acres of grassland at Reveler Conservation Area in the Township of North Stormont. The work involves the removal of select trees and shrubs to reduce canopy cover, increasing the amount of open grassland area.

Outdoor enthusiasts are invited to come and enjoy for themselves a long list of upgrades completed at Warwick Forest Conservation Area east of Berwick.

Warwick Forest is a collection of several parcels of land owned by the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry, South Nation Conservation (SNC) and the Province of Ontario.

SNC maintains Warwick Forest as part of a network of 15 day-use, admission-free Conservation Areas in its 4,300 square-km jurisdiction.

South Nation Conservation’s (SNC) partnership with the regional geocaching community continues to grow, with more than 1,600 geocaches now hidden throughout the 4,300 square-km jurisdiction.

“The relationship has been beneficial for both parties,” said long-time geocacher Ian Mitchell, Chair of SNC’s Communications Committee.

“Geocachers have been welcomed to a large territory and gained free meeting space, while SNC has benefited from positive public relations and greater appreciation for the natural resources in the area.”

South Nation Conservation (SNC) is aware that, in addition to a fire, a spill occurred near the main well in the village of Newington, South Stormont, Ontario.

South Stormont has declared a state of emergency for Newington’s water supply and the Eastern Ontario Health Unit is advising residents, as a precautionary measure, to only use water for washroom use.

The Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) is the responding agency and is investigating.

Public inquiries should be directed to the MOECC Cornwall Area Office at 613-933-7402. 

Monique Sauve - Lead Sewage Systems Inspector with SNC was recently featured in the Member Profile of the Ontario Onsite Wastewater Association newsletter. Read the story here!

Work is almost complete on three vernal pools at the South Nation Conservation’s (SNC) Robert Graham Conservation Area.

Vernal pools are shallow depressions in the ground where seasonal run-off water can collect. These temporary pools serve as homes and breeding grounds to a number of distinct plant and animal species such as the Western Chorus Frog.

“This is the first time that we’ve ever created new amphibian breeding habitat using vernal pools as a wetland creation technique,” said SNC Biologist Michelle Cavanagh.

Trails have been closed at South Nation Conservation’s (SNC) Two Creeks Conservation Area on Highway 2 west of Morrisburg while drainage is being improved and access upgraded for recreational users.

Flooding of the trails is an annual problem. Not only will the work alleviate the problem, it’ll improve fish and wildlife habitat.

“The situation is a temporary one,” said Naomi Langlois-Anderson, SNC Senior Fish and Wildlife Technician, advising that 130 trees being removed as part of the project will be replaced with 350 native seedlings and shrubs.

Under the banner “A River for Tomorrow”, Moose Creek residents were asked how they see the creek and their thoughts on protecting it for future generations.

The project involved many components including improving water quality and habitat, reducing erosion, stabilizing the stream bank and beautifying the area.

SNC was pleased to work with several partners on the project including Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Lafleche Environmental Inc., North Stormont Township, and the Moose Creek Watershed Committee.

With Environment Canada forecasting heavy rain for tomorrow, SNC reminds residents sudden changes in stream flows and water levels can occur over the next few days. Parents are encouraged to explain these dangers to their children. As part of the Flood Forecasting and Warning Service, SNC staff monitors the water levels and weather forecasts 365 days a year.

While the dog days of summer may be behind us, there are still great opportunities to enjoy the outdoors this fall and winter!

South Nation Conservation (SNC) owns and manages over 12,000 acres of public natural space, including a network of 15 day-use Conservation Areas that remain open throughout the year. 

“Although some of the day-use parks are being prepared for winter, with staff removing docks and picnic tables, many offer groomed trails for your winter enjoyment,” said Jim Hendry, SNC Team Lead, Property.