Overview
The Armstrong Woods Nature Preserve consists of 52.8 hectares (130.47 acres) of dense forest in the hills east of Perth-Andover, overlooking the Wolastoq/Saint John River. The preserve is a stunning example of rich forested land, with steep slopes and diverse ground vegetation species like red trillium (Viburnum lantanoides), false Solomon’s seal (Marianthemum trifolium), and trout lily (Erythronium americanum).
History
The Armstrong Woods Nature Preserve is named for the Armstrong family, who purchased the property in the 1970s and used it for farming. The Nature Trust protected this land in November 2018, thanks to the generous donation of Murray and Jane (Armstrong) Watters via the Ecological Gifts program. The preserve is located within traditional Wabanaki territory. The Nature Trust is proud to protect this important piece of New Brunswick’s natural heritage in perpetuity.
Ecology
The Armstrong Woods Nature Preserve contains deep slopes leading into valleys, several streams, and plateau areas along Larlee Creek. The diverse forest cover includes birch (Betula spp.), black cherry (Prunus serotina), striped maple (Acer pensylvanicum), and balsam fir (Abies balsamea).
The preserve is home to a variety of bird species including rose-breasted grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus), northern parula (Setophaga americana), and indigo bunting (Passerina cyanea).
Spring ephemerals are abundant throughout the Armstrong Woods Nature Preserve, including Dutchman’s breeches (Dicentra cucullaria), spring beauty (Claytonia virginica), painted trillium (Trillium undulatum), and a variety of common hardwood forest forbs and ferns. A full vegetation survey is needed, but the uncommon shrub-like plant American spikenard (Aralia racemosa) has been observed.
Access and Activities
There is no public access to the preserve. Please contact the Nature Trust office at (506) 457-2398 or steward@ntnb.org for more information about stewardship opportunities.
*The property is undeveloped and there are a variety of hazards and risks associated with accessing this preserve. Any visitor must assume responsibility for their own actions and safety and are to use the land at their own risk.