Overview
This 16.89-hectare (41.74 acre) preserve has extensive wetland habitat and forms part of the Carding Mill Brook tributary of the Miramichi River.
History
The Dolan Woodlands Nature Preserve was donated by the Dolan family in 2018 for permanent protection. This preserve has a rich history in the Miramichi area, as the woodlot was originally purchased in 1845 by John (Doolan) Dolan. He arrived in Miramichi in 1830 at age 15 from Ireland with his father, mother, and younger brother Thomas, and the family lived on Beaubears Island for the first 20 years of their new life, originally working in the shipbuilding industry.
Throughout the years, the Dolan family have been wise stewards of this property, enjoying the surrounding nature which would become a touchstone for many members of the family. The intentions of the family’s donation include to honour their ancestors, to ensure the land will be conserved, in perpetuity, and to give back to the community of Miramichi, where this nature preserve will be enjoyed for future generations.
Ecology
The extensive network of wetlands, including forested wetlands provide habitat for many species including highbush cranberry, rattlesnake root, wild cucumber, mountain holly, rose-twisted stalk, rhododendron, and hawthorn.
The mixed forest is rich with white ash, pin cherry, Eastern white cedar, white spruce, aspen, white birch, balsam fir, larch, and red maple. This habitat supports wildlife including mallard, brook trout, moose, deer, beaver, raccoon, wood thrush, and green frog.
Access and Activities
This preserve protects land where some of the Miramichi Ski Club’s cross-country ski trails are, which can be accessed at 131 Nelson St, Miramichi.
There is no parking available at the Dolan Woodlands Nature Preserve; however, it can also be accessed by the Transport Canada trail that intersects the preserve. It is also possible to access the preserve by an ATV trail that crosses the Sutton Road.
*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.