Overview

The Edwards-Jackson Nature Preserve is 46 hectares (113.67 acres) of protected land, on the southern shore of Scotch Lake, located a roughly 40-minute drive from Fredericton. This preserve, consisting of mixed forest communities and wetlands, provides habitat for several significant species including the scarlet tanager (Piranga olivacea) and the Eastern wood pee-wee (Contopus virens).

History

The Edwards-Jackson Nature Preserve is within traditional Wolastoqiyik territory. This preserve was donated by Joan Edwards in March 2023 for permanent protection through the ecological gifts program. 

Ecology

Mountain woodsorrel (Oxalis montana)

The preserve is located along the southern shore of Scotch Lake and contains a variety of primarily mixed forest communities including eastern cedar (Thuja occidentalis), hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), white spruce (Picea glauca) and balsam fir (Abies balsamea). The topography is varied, with some wetter areas along streams and the lakeshore.  This area is provincially recognized as a wetland and is classified as “shrub wetland”. 

The Edwards-Jackson Nature Preserve is home to a variety of wildlife including moose (Alces alces), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus) and the American red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus). Many bird species have also been spotted in the area such as the belted kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon), black-and-white warbler (Mniotilta varia) and scarlet tanager (Piranga olivacea) 

Access and Activities

From Fredericton: Take NB-102 towards French Village. Take exit onto Mactaquac Road/NB105. Take a right onto NB-615 before the Ultramar. Continue until you can take a left onto Scotch Lake Road. Continue until an intersection, keeping left you will cross over a small bridge. Take a right at the end of the road and continue until Edwards Lane. Access details: Access is via Scotch Lake Road. 

Please contact Nature Trust office at (506) 457-2398 or steward@ntnb.org for more information about visitation.

*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.