Overview
Mahsusuwi-monihkuk Nature Preserve is made up of alluvial black ash floodplain forest, alder thicket, and cobble-sand shoreline. This preserve protects 5.6 hectares (13.8 acres) of this habitat in the upper Wolastoq (Saint John) River.
History
Mahsusuwi-monihkuk Nature Preserve is within traditional Wabanaki territory. It was acquired in March 2019. The whole island is now under conservation, increasing the protected land in the upper Wolastoq (Saint John) River watershed. Formerly called ‘Tobique Island Nature Preserve,’ the preserve was given its Indigenous name in the fall of 2023 as part of the Nature Trust’s initiative to restore traditional languages in the spirit of reconciliation and shared stewardship. Mahsusuwi-monihkuk translates to ‘a place of fiddlehead island’ in English, named after the abundance of large ferns which grow in its interior.
Ecology
The island consists of cobblestone and sand beach on the eastern, western and northern sides. The remainder of the island is dominated by black ash, with balsam poplar, cherry and aspen scattered throughout. The understory is dominated in the forested areas by ostrich fern.
Access and Activities
To get to the preserve from Plaster Rock, head South on NB 109 for 10 km until Cooper Mountain Rd. then follow the directions below.
If you are arriving from the Trans Canada Hwy 2, take the exit at Perth-Andover towards Plaster Rock on NB 109, continue on NB 109 for about 29 km, until Diane’s Villa (2587 Route 109). Entrance to the access road for the island is 350 m North of Diane’s Villa, taking a sharp right turn toward the river onto the 2nd branch of Cooper Mountain Rd.
The access point is off of crown land, about 1 km down Cooper Mountain Rd., you will see the island, and can park off to the side of the road. During summer months, this branch of the river is often shallow enough to be crossed by foot, with care, however a boat is recommended.
*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.