Overview
The preserve protects 82.88 hectares (204.8 acres) of Middle Island, which lies within the Wolastoq (Saint John) River near Maugerville in Sunbury County.
History
The Nələkwənəkek/Noloqonokek Nature Preserve is within traditional Wabanaki territory. The preserve was established in 2016 and extended in 2018. Like much of the floodplain interval and alluvial islands in this area of the Wolastoq (Saint John) River, this land had been used since the early 19th Century as a hay field and cattle pasture.
At least three old, presumably man-made water channelling ditches have been observed on the site and are now flourishing wetlands. On the northern tip and the western shore, canoers and kayakers have, for many years, used the beach for picnicking.
Ecology
Middle Island contains diverse forest and wetland habitats. The island has three Provincially Significant Wetlands in long open water marshes, most of them protected by the Nature Trust.
The island contains a large population of mature and regenerating butternut (Juglans cinerea) classified as federally and provincially endangered under the Species at Risk Act (SARA).
Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) have been observed and are potentially nesting on the island, and are classified as provincially Endangered under the SARA.
Access and Activities
From Oromocto, follow Waasis Rd/NB-102 S for approx. 2 km. Turn left to pass Burton Bridge and follow NB-105 S for approx. 3 km. The preserve is a short distance from the public dock across the northern branch of the river (Google Maps).
The island does not feature any significant trails but is easily traversable on the western open field area and parts of the immediate bank area.
*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.