Dunnville Marsh management plan

Abstract

The Dunnville Marsh property, situated at the mouth of the Grand River, was acquired from Canadian Pacific Rail Ltd. in early 1994. Its securement was made possible by the Nature Conservancy of Canada through funding provided from the Eastern Habitat Joint Venture of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan and the Great Lakes Cleanup Fund. The property, consisting of approximately 350 ha, contains marshlands, wetland swamps, agricultural fields, abandoned clearings and upland woodlands. The Grand River Conservation Authority was transferred ownership later in the same year. The overall guiding principle and goal for the property strives "to preserve the lands as a natural area for the conservation and management of waterfowl, other wildlife and the natural communities." Towards these ends, a "Management Committee" and has been working towards the preparation of this management plan. This plan represents a significant contribution by the members of the Dunnville Marsh Management Committee. This committee was formed in 1994 to make recommendations and provide technical expertise towards the future management of the property. The public has been invited as well to participate in the planning process. This plan formally recognizes the efforts of all partners and participants plus provides the basis and framework for future, cooperative management efforts.