Overview

The Bonny River Nature Preserve protects 156 hectares (385 acres) of breathtaking wilderness near the community of Bonny River in Charlotte County, New Brunswick. Spanning from the Magaguadavic River to Lily Lake, this preserve protects a rich mosaic of forests, wetlands, and rocky ridges that support diverse species and vital habitat connectivity within the Magaguadavic Ecodistrict.

History

This remarkable property was generously donated by Eddie and Cathy (Stewart) Gillmor, who reached out to us to ensure this natural treasure will be protected for generations to come. Although parts of the land were once used for hunting and selective timber harvesting, steep slopes and rugged terrain helped preserve large areas of forest in their natural state. 

Ecology

The Bonny River Nature Preserve is a diverse landscape of forests, wetlands, streams, freshwater springs, rocky cliffs, and granite outcrops. Its distinctive topography includes steep ridges crowned with mature red spruce, eastern white pine, red maple, and yellow birch (a prime microhabitat and modelled habitat for rare scaly fringe lichen), offering striking views of the Magaguadavic shoreline below. 

This ecological richness supports an abundance of life, from monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) and lady’s slipper orchids (Cypripedioideae) to a wide variety of mushrooms and mosses, birds of prey like bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), and various reptiles and amphibians. The preserve also contains three regulated wetlands, including one nestled between Lily and Mud Lakes, as well as seasonal streams and freshwater springs. 

Part of a larger natural corridor north of the McQuirk’s Mountain Crown land candidate for conservation, the preserve provides vital connectivity within the Magaguadavic Ecodistrict. Its varied elevations and complex topography create microclimates and climate refugia, fostering species diversity, resilience, and long-term ecological adaptation. 

Access and Activities

If you have any questions or concerns regarding access to this preserve, please contact the Nature Trust at info@ntnb.org 

Please contact the Nature Trust office at (506) 457-2398 or engage@ntnb.org for information about volunteering and fieldwork opportunities.  

*The property is undeveloped and there are a variety of hazards and risks associated with accessing this preserve. Any visitor must assume responsibility for their own actions and safety and are to use the land at their own risk.