Musquash Estuary Nature Reserve
Estuaries form where rivers meet the sea. The mix of fresh and saltwater creates rich habitats for fish and shellfish. This then provides food for birds and other wildlife.
The story of the Musquash Estuary began with a group of community members rallying for the protection of the estuary and the surrounding lands. These were at the time set to be developed as an industrial park. In 2001, two of these supporters chose to partner with NCC and donate their land in the area for safe keeping. This started a ripple effect which lasts to this day. Since that time, supporters such as yourself have inspired others to help NCC expand and care for the nature reserve.
Thanks to many caring individuals, the Musquash Estuary continues to grow. It is a beautiful haven in the present, and a lasting legacy for the future.
Musquash Estuary Nature Reserve at a Glance
- Located 25 km from uptown Saint John, the reserve offers the chance to experience and explore New Brunswick’s beautiful wilderness.
- The Musquash Estuary Nature Reserve is NCC’s largest nature reserve in Atlantic Canada with 2,300 protected hectares (5,680 acres).
- NCC has been working to protect the forest, wetlands and coast around the estuary. These locations provide a safe home for wildlife to feed, find refuge, breed and raise their young.
- Thanks to donor support, NCC has built and maintains two coastal hiking trails for all to enjoy. These trails pass through mossy coastal forests with stunning views, cobble beaches, and salt marshes.
- Selected by NCC as a Nature Destination , the reserve’s trails are popular with birders and hikers alike.
The Estuary
Located in the Bay of Fundy, the Musquash Estuary is truly one of a kind. The estuary is influenced by the tides but sheltered from the open ocean. Its mud flats, salt marshes, freshwater bogs and forests all support unique plants, animals and marine life. Many types of wildlife can be found here, such as peregrine falcon, bobcat, moose, deer and harbor seal.
Acadian Forest
Forests store and filter rainwater prevent erosion and provide shelter for wildlife during storms. NCC is working to conserve forest around the estuary both for wildlife habitat and to help keep clean the water flowing into the estuary itself.
NCC is helping to protect the health and diversity of this environment, which is critical for so many species, and vital to coastal communities.
Healthy, mature Acadian forest provides many benefits. Clean water, clean air, flood prevention, habitat for wildlife, and places to restore our physical and mental well-being.
See How We've Grown
This map of the Musquash protected areas is an excellent showcase of how much has been preserved by NCC and our partners.
Nature Destination
NCC’s Nature Destinations program invites Canadians to explore some of our country’s most beautiful and important natural areas.
The Musquash Estuary has huge recreation value. Unlike many wilderness areas, NCC’s Musquash Estuary Nature Reserve is accessible. Just 25 kilometers from uptown Saint John, it is a one of a kind outdoor recreation destination for nature lovers of all ages. With your support, the Musquash Estuary can continue to grow, as we work toward fully protecting the land around this natural wonder.
For more information on the trail, please visit our Nature Destinations page .
Thank You!
The Musquash Estuary Nature Reserve has come a long way since 2001 and the Nature Conservancy of Canada could not have done it without you. The reserve has grown piece by piece through land donations, purchases and community partnerships and with the continued support of donors such as yourself, we can help the Musquash Estuary Nature Reserve thrive.
There is still work to be done and conservation opportunities are available. These include old forest, a section of shoreline inside the Marine Protected Area, and land surrounding a Bay of Fundy landmark: the historic lighthouse at Musquash Head.
With your continued support, you will be helping to ensure this beautiful area remains an undeveloped and inspiring destination for present and future generations to come.
