grand codroy estuary, newfoundland, canada

The Grand Codroy Estuary, sheltered by the Long Range Mountains, is one of the most productive of Newfoundland and Labrador's few estuarine wetland sites. It is located on the southwest coast of Newfoundland. The Codroy River meanders into a shallow, brackish wetland composed of intertidal sandbars that are exposed during low tide. Rolling hills, farms, and cultivated open fields surround much of the estuary.

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Some of the estuary supports eelgrass, which serves as a food source for up to 3,000 migrating Canada geese. The mouth of the estuary is separated from Searston Bay by a long sandpit covered with dune grass, providing nesting habitat for a small population of endangered piping plovers. Over 100 bird species have been identified along with rare plant species. The Nature Conservancy of Canada has purchased and conserved land parcels, creating a Nature Reserve and Interpre-tation Centre that attract bird watchers and tourists. A network of local volunteers helps maintain the Reserve.

The primary threat to the wetland is sea level rise. The estuary is quite shallow. It seems doubtful that flora and fauna could adapt quickly enough.

In 1987, a 925-hectare Wetland of International Importance was designated in the estuary pursuant to the international Ramsar Agreement.

Visit and donate: The Nature Conservancy manages a collection of properties total-ing 243 hectares and maintains close relationships with community groups and volunteers dedicated to habitat preservation. http://www.natureconservancy.ca/en/where-we-work/newfoundland-and-labrador/featured-projects/the_grand_codroy_estuary.html