Photo courtesy
A bat spotted in Forêt Brière, reflecting the forest’s importance as a habitat for threatened wildlife
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
The Appalachian Corridor has launched its most ambitious conservation project to date, aiming to preserve the Forêt Brière, a 542-hectare ecological gem in the northern Green Mountains. Located on the border of Quebec and Vermont, this forest is essential for maintaining biodiversity and ecological connectivity across the region.
Spanning from 170 to 630 metres in elevation, Forêt Brière encompasses a range of habitats, including mature forests, wetlands, and high-altitude ecosystems. These features make it an unparalleled refuge for plant and animal species, many of which are endangered. The project, valued at $16.4 million, hinges on a public fundraising campaign to raise $900,000 by the end of winter.
“This is one of the last remaining properties of its size and ecological value in our territory,” explained Mélanie Lelièvre, Executive Director of Appalachian Corridor, in a recent interview. “Its protection is crucial for biodiversity, water quality, and connectivity between forest cores in Vermont and Quebec.”
The stakes for biodiversity
According to a related release, the Forêt Brière is home to over 250 plant species, six of which are classified as at risk, including the butternut tree and Canada maidenhair fern. It also supports 53 bird species, including the wood thrush, eastern wood-pewee, and the rare Canada warbler. Wide-ranging mammals such as moose, bobcats, black bears, and coyotes rely on this unfragmented forest for survival. Among the 10 animal species confirmed to be at risk are the wood turtle, silver-haired bat, and eastern pipistrelle.
Biologists who conducted site visits over the summer were thrilled by their findings. “They confirmed just how rich and unique this property is,” said Lelièvre. “From plants to wide-ranging mammals, the diversity of life here is astonishing.”
The forest’s location enhances its ecological importance. Streams originating within Forêt Brière flow into the Missisquoi River, supporting regional water quality and aquatic ecosystems. Without protection, the forest risks being carved into residential lots, a move that would scar the landscape, disrupt wildlife corridors, and worsen erosion and water recharge issues.
“This property is part of the Appalachians, an eco-region with global significance,” said Lelièvre. “It’s on par with the Amazon rainforest and Kenyan prairies for its role in biodiversity and climate adaptation.”
A collaborative rescue effort
In a remarkable turn of events, the project began with an urgent intervention by the Appalachian Corridor. When they approached owner Guy Brière, he was on the verge of selling the land for residential development. Plans were already underway, with permits secured and a design office ready to market the lots. However, after two meetings, Brière agreed to delay his plans and contribute to the forest’s preservation. His $7.4 million ecological donation covers nearly half the project’s cost, a historic gesture for conservation in Quebec.
This massive project has united an unprecedented coalition of conservation groups, governments, and private donors. The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) joined forces with Appalachian Corridor for the first time, pooling resources to tackle the immense scope of the initiative. Financial support has also come from provincial and federal ministries, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, and private foundations.
“This is the largest project we’ve ever attempted,” said Lelièvre. “We’ve done $3 million projects before, but nothing close to $16.4 million. By partnering with NCC, we’ve created a realistic plan to secure this vital property.”
The clock is ticking
The public fundraising campaign is the final phase of the project. Appalachian Corridor is calling on individuals, businesses, and communities to contribute before the campaign closes in late winter. Every dollar donated will generate $8 in leveraged funding from institutional and governmental partners, maximizing the impact of contributions.
Donors can support the project through various methods, including online contributions, cheques, stock donations, or bank transfers. Stock donations are particularly advantageous, as they offer significant tax benefits by avoiding capital gains tax.
“People often feel powerless in the face of climate change and biodiversity loss,” said Lelièvre. “This project offers a concrete way to make a difference. It’s local, impactful, and ensures permanent protection for the forest.”
A legacy for future generations
The preservation of Forêt Brière also contributes to Canada’s goal of protecting 30 per cent of its land by 2030, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and habitat loss. The forest’s proximity to other protected areas, including the Green Mountains Nature Reserve, enhances its role in creating a contiguous corridor of natural habitats across the border.
“The impact of this project goes far beyond the local community,” said Claire Ducharme, Vice-President of NCC for Quebec, in the release. “It’s a model for collaborative conservation in southern Quebec and a significant step forward in preserving our natural heritage.”
Forêt Brière’s fate now rests on the generosity of the public. To learn more or make a donation, visit Appalachian Corridor’s website at corridorappalachien.ca
With just $900,000 left to raise, this campaign represents the last chance to safeguard one of the region’s most valuable ecological treasures. By acting now, donors can help leave an enduring legacy for generations to come.