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Flooded Forests
34 Relic riparian old growth Acadian forest sites were assessed for conservation during the summer and fall of 2010. A conservation plan was then developed based on a number of criteria on a site-by-site basis. Starting in the spring of 2011, CARP will be working to contact the owners of these sites to promote conservation options (e.g stewardship agreements, land purchase or conservation easements).


Cedar stand along the Annapolis River
Riparian areas are the transition between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Old growth Acadian forests in these zones can be recognized by tree species such as red spruce, balsam fir, eastern hemlock, eastern white pine, yellow birch, sugar maple, and American beech. Riparian areas are important for supporting high levels of biodiversity, preservation of nutrients and providing habitat for plants and wildlife. The old growth riparian Acadian forest is an essential component to maintaining and restoring the ecological health of the Annapolis River watershed.

The Annapolis valley is one of the few regions where these forests are still present in spite of nearly 400 years of European settlement. These actively flooded forests, some with rare plants that have not been found in other areas of Nova Scotia, are among the most endangered ecosystems in eastern Canada and are a high priority to conserve. As many of these sites are on private land little research has been conducted in respect to the threats facing them.

Thirty-four sites are being assessed for impacts to the forests or stream banks, threats and potential for conservation. Soil conditions, species present and land use are also being recorded. The data collected was used to determine what the best conservation option for the land is, including stewardship agreements, conservation easements or purchase.

Encouraging protection of these sites as part of the Environmental Goals and Sustainable Prosperity Act (EGSPA) is the next goal. EGSPA requires the province to protect 12% of Nova Scotia’s landmass by 2015. As most crown land possibilities have been exhausted, the need to protect private land is essential to achieve the 12% goal. The predominantly agricultural landscape of the Annapolis valley has eliminated the majority of old growth Acadian forest throughout its history, therefore the protection of these nationally unique sites would further Nova Scotia’s goal.

There are many benefits to conserving private land. These include ensuring that future generations are able to enjoy the land as is as well as financial benefits. If you would like to learn more about conservation options for private land you can visit www.nsnt.ca or call CARP at 902-532-7533

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