Overview:
The Cape Enrage Nature Preserve consists of 29.9 hectares (73.8 acres) of marshland, coastal and woodland habitats, located just north of Cape Enrage in Waterside. This preserve, commonly known as Barn Marsh, consists of four (4) parcels.
It is characterized by its classification as a Provincially Significant Wetland, as well as being globally classified as an Important Bird Area (IBA).
In 2020, scientists from the New Brunswick Museum found the first animal life fossil in the area dating back 320 million years ago.
We acknowledge that the Cape Enrage Nature Preserve is within the traditional territory of the Wabanaki Peoples.
History:
The Cape Enrage Nature Preserve was the first protected land in Canada to be donated under the federal Ecological Gifts Program, which was made by Bill and Sharon Ayer in 1996.
The Nature Trust is proud to protect this important piece of New Brunswick’s natural spaces for future generations, in perpetuity.
Ecology:
The Cape Enrage Nature Preserve contains a large, Class 1 Upper Bay of Fundy salt marsh. The regionally rare Adder’s tongue fern (Ophioglossum pussillum) may be found in this preserve. The preserve also contains a sample of steep parallel rock ridges with intervening valleys and embankments.
This area falls within an Important Bird Area (IBA) globally due to the presence of congregatory species and shorebird concentrations.
Access and Activities:
Located in Cape Enrage, the preserve can be accessed by travelling 15 km east of Fundy National Park on Cape Enrage Road, off Highway Route 915. The preserve is 1 km before Cape Enrage Adventures at 650 Cape Enrage Road. Removal of rocks from the preserve or to build towers or statues is prohibited.
*The property is undeveloped and there are a variety of hazards and risks associated with accessing this preserve. While this nature preserve is open for public access, visitors must assume responsibility for their own actions and safety and are to use the land at their own risk.