Courtesy Tim Doherty
Lim Wetlands property

Protecting local nature

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a landmark move for environmental conservation, the Massawippi Conservation Trust (MCT), in collaboration with the Appalachian Corridor, has announced the permanent protection of the Lim Wetlands property. This 8-hectare wetland, located in Hatley near the Tomifobia River, is a vital ecological site. “This is our first conservation project on this scale, and we couldn’t be more thrilled,” said Hélène Hamel, Executive Director of the Fondation Massawippi Foundation (FMF), in a recent interview.

The property—dubbed the “kidneys of the lake” by Hamel—plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality and mitigating the impacts of climate change. An ecological assessment conducted in 2022 by the Appalachian Corridor revealed the land’s biodiversity significance. It is home to species at risk such as wood turtles, Canada lilies, and four types of bats, as well as 44 bird species, including the Bank Swallow and Eastern Woodpecker. “Protecting this ecosystem ensures high-quality drinking water for surrounding communities and safeguards essential ecological services,” explained Appalachian Corridor General Manager Mélanie Lelièvre in a related press release.

A unique donation

The Lim Wetlands property was donated by a family that had owned it for decades but never developed it. “This land is extraordinary. It’s never been disturbed,” Hamel shared, adding that the donor had never even walked on the property. This untouched land, valued at $90,000, strengthens the conservation network surrounding Lake Massawippi, connecting it to other protected areas just 4.3 kilometres away.

The project was made possible by substantial financial backing. Funding came from several government initiatives, including Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Canadian Nature Fund and the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s Natural Environment Partnership Project, which received support from the Quebec government. Locally, the FMF provided additional funds to aid the MCT in its conservation mission.

Conservation and community

Hamel emphasized the dual role of the MCT and FMF in both conserving land and promoting public engagement. While the MCT handles land acquisition and stewardship, FMF raises funds and manages educational programs. Together, the organizations have protected 546 hectares of land since their founding in 2011. “We aim to conserve as much of the watershed as possible, ensuring its biodiversity and ecological balance for future generations,” Hamel said.

Looking ahead, the Trust is expanding its focus to farmland conservation. Hamel revealed plans to work with local farmers on organic practices, riverbank planting, and reducing chemical use. “Farmland is often overlooked in conservation efforts, but it’s critical to the overall health of our ecosystem,” she noted. The first such initiative will be with FMF President Margot Heyerhoff, whose organic farm is set to become a conservation servitude.

Beyond wetlands: Tomifobia Nature Trail

In addition to wetlands, the MCT is in discussion to acquire a transfer of ownership of the Tomifobia Nature Trail, a 19-kilometre green corridor connecting Ayer’s Cliff to Stanstead. The trail is currently owned and maintained by volunteers from the Sentier Massawippi Inc. team. “This trail is a gem,” Hamel remarked. More information is expected in the coming months.

A legacy of trails

Hamel also shared updates on other ongoing projects. This year, the team will complete the Burroughs Falls Trail, the first on the eastern side of Lake Massawippi. In 2026, the Trust plans to develop trails on conserved land at Quebec Lodge. These trails, designed for family-friendly walks, complement the more extensive hiking paths already available in the region.

The ultimate goal, Hamel explained, is to create a cohesive network of protected lands and trails. By working under the Appalachian Corridor’s umbrella, the Trust uses biologists’ assessments to prioritize properties threatened by development or ecological decline. “Our mission is long-term. We’re not just conserving land; we’re fostering a culture of stewardship and sustainability,” Hamel said.

Collaboration and the future

The success of the Lim Wetlands project highlights the importance of collaboration. From government funding to partnerships with property owners and local volunteers, conservation efforts require a collective approach. “We’re in discussions with other landowners to establish conservation servitudes,” Hamel explained. “It’s not just about acquisition; it’s about ensuring long-term protection.”

For Hamel, the work is deeply personal. “We’re not just preserving land; we’re protecting our heritage,” she said. With ambitious plans for the future, including expanded farmland conservation and new trails, the Massawippi Conservation Trust is set to leave a lasting impact on the Eastern Townships.