Nature Trust of New Brunswick conserves Long Island landmark

People looking west from Rothesay and surrounding areas will be able to admire more unspoiled forested area for generations to come, thanks to a recent expansion of the Nature Trust of New Brunswick’s Minster’s Face Nature Preserve on Long Island. The protected area now includes half of Polly’s Rock, also known as ‘Poly Rock’ or the ‘Crow’s Nest,’ the highest point on the Island and a scenic focal point for miles around.
Through funding from Habitat Stewardship Program (HSP) of Environment Canada to reserve habitat for species-at-risk, the Nature Trust was able to purchase the 35-acre property from the landowners, who generously donated a portion of the land’s value. The landowners were interested in preserving the land and ensuring that future generations can always explore the property.
The Minister’s Face Nature Preserve now encompasses a total of 400 acres/162 ha of Long Island, an area which will always be protected as a sanctuary for flora, fauna, and people wishing to enjoy the natural world. Other sections of the Nature Preserve include the beaches on the southwestern side of the Island that are popular recreation sites, and much of the Minister’s Face cliff facing Rothesay. The Trust may expand the current trail system on the Island to take in the newly acquired property. “There should be great views over the surrounding valley from the top of Polly’s Rock” says Acting Executive Director Laura Minich. “We believe it’s important that people get out and enjoy our preserved areas, and a simple trail is a great way to appreciate the forests and views Long Island provides.”
The Nature Trust of New Brunswick is a land trust committed to preserving outstanding natural areas in the province. They have been preserving land on Long Island for the benefit New Brunswickers since 2001. The Island is host to rare flora and fauna, most of which are found on the cliffs of Minister’s Face. Here one can find plants like wall-rue fern; although it may look modest, the nearest known population of wall-rue fern is hundreds of kilometers away in Vermont.
With other Nature Preserves around Saint John like Sea Dog Cove Preserve on the Kingston Peninsula and Manawagonish Island near Irving Nature Park, the Nature Trust hopes to ensure that future generations of Saint John area residents can enjoy the beautiful natural areas that current New Brunswickers know and love.

CONTACT:
Laura Minich
Acting Executive Director
(506) 457-2398
(506) 450-2137 (fax)
naturetrust@ntnb.org

Margo Sheppard
(506) 457-2398
(506) 450-2137 (fax)
ntnb@nbnet.nb.ca