Nature Trust of New Brunswick celebrates 100th nature preserve milestone
THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2026
TRADITIONAL TERRITORY OF WABANAKI PEOPLES/FREDERICTON, N.B. — The Nature Trust of New Brunswick has reached a major conservation milestone with the establishment of its 100th nature preserve.
The milestone was achieved through the successful completion of the Together for 100 campaign, which raised $101,000 and secured three new nature preserves, along with an expansion of an existing site. The organization’s network now spans 100 preserves covering more than 14,700 acres across New Brunswick, protecting the province’s most cherished natural landscapes.
“Reaching 100 nature preserves is a testament to the thousands of New Brunswickers who believe the places we love should be protected forever,” said Acting CEO Carli le Roux. “This achievement belongs to our donors, volunteers, and partners who have made long-term conservation possible in communities across the province.”
The three newest preserves include:
Forested Wetlands of Tracyville (official name pending) — A 22-hectare property along the North Branch Oromocto River, protecting mature forest, wetlands, and habitat for species at risk including olive-sided flycatcher and bank swallow.
Riparian Wilds of the Southwest Miramichi (official name pending) — A 3.6-hectare riverside property near Doaktown that supports regenerating forest and helps maintain critical habitat for Atlantic salmon and butternut trees.
Nighthawk Woods of Stanley (official name pending) — A 20-hectare mixedwood forest in the Upper Nashwaak region, featuring vernal pools and habitat for species at risk such as hoary bat and common nighthawk.
In addition, the Nature Trust expanded the Sea Dog Cove Nature Preserve on the Kingston Peninsula through the Together for 100 campaign, further strengthening protection along the Kennebecasis River.
Since its first acquisition in 1988, the Nature Trust has worked to conserve forests, wetlands, shorelines, and islands that define New Brunswick’s natural heritage. The organization says the milestone represents not just protected land, but a growing movement of people committed to conservation.
“Protected areas like these ensure clean water, store carbon, and provide space for wildlife to move and adapt,” said Tom Beckley, president of the Nature Trust. “But just as importantly, they give people a lasting connection to nature.”
The 100-preserve achievement brings the organization within reach of an even bigger goal. The Nature Trust is now only 300 acres away from hitting its Conserve Y(our) NB campaign goal, which launched in 2020 to double its conserved lands network to 15,000 acres by the end of the decade.
Supporters can learn more, explore all 100 nature preserves, or contribute to future conservation efforts by visiting naturetrust.nb.ca.
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About the Nature Trust of New Brunswick
The Nature Trust of New Brunswick is a charitable land conservation organization dedicated to protecting New Brunswick’s natural spaces forever. Since 1987, the Nature Trust has worked in partnership with landholders, communities, and volunteers to conserve 14,700 acres across 100 nature preserves, safeguarding vital forests, rivers and coastlines. With a mission grounded in connection, care, and community, the Nature Trust helps ensure that the wild places that feel like home today will be there for future generations to explore, love, and protect. Learn more at www.naturetrust.nb.ca.
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Jon MacNeill
Communications and Engagement Manager
Nature Trust of New Brunswick
jon.macneill@ntnb.org | (506) 457-2398 (office) | (506) 238-3539 (mobile)