Overview
The Sasəkatəkok/ Sasokatokuk Nature Preserve an Appalachian Hardwood Forest (AHF), a forest type of which less than 1% remains of its former extent in the Maritimes. This preserve protects 36 hectares (90 acres) of this habitat. This property is ecologically significant because it supports a number of rich wet seepage areas and extensive forested wetlands that provide habitat for populations of forest birds species and provincially-rare and uncommon understory plants.
History
The Sasəkatəkok/ Sasokatokuk Nature Preserve is within traditional Wabanaki territory.
Ecology
The numerous forest stands on the property reflect a diversity of micro-habitats and varied land use history, including:
Areas with little evidence of recent disturbance;
Old hardwood (AHF) and hemlock forest;
Mature calcareous cedar fen and rich hardwood forested wetland;
Cedar-red maple forested wetland;
Historically-abandoned farmland regenerating in immature mixed hardwood, and recently harvested abandoned-farmland.
The site’s forests exhibit old forest characteristics, including large mature trees, pit and mount topography, and abundant standing and fallen deadwood.
Access and Activities
From Fredericton, get on NB-8 S from NB-102 N and Hanwell Rd/NB-640 S. Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/NB-2 W to Centreville Rd/NB-110 W in Simonds. Exit from Trans-Canada Hwy/NB-2 W. Turn left onto Centreville Rd/NB-110 W. The preserve will be on the right after 11km.
*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.