Size: 73.9-acres (29.9-hectares)
Status: Not Open to the Public
Protected: October 1, 2025
Protected By: funders and supporters, listed below!
Background:
In 2024, Bud and Ann Clark approached us about selling land that had been in Ann’s family for generations. After learning more about The Couchiching Conservancy and the work supported by our donors, they were so inspired that they decided to donate part of the property as well.
This is an important acquisition. The 74 acres we’re protecting increase the conservation value of the nearby T. C. Agnew and Fawcett Nature Reserves. T. C. Agnew is home to more species of bat than any other nature reserve the Conservancy holds, so protecting adjacent land is especially exciting. These 74 acres also border Simcoe County Forest and the Trent-Severn Waterway, helping to connect the Matchedash and Black River Wildlands habitats corridors that Couchiching Conservancy has been working to establish.
Now named Blackwell Brady Clark, the property includes sedge meadows, wetlands that provide excellent turtle habitat, and vernal pools used by salamanders for breeding. Rock barrens are mixed with White Pine, Maple and Ash forests. There are many Species At Risk living here. To protect them and maintain unbroken natural areas near the railway and canal, this property will be closed to the public.
The protection of the Blackwell Brady Clark Nature Reserve was made possible through funding from the Government of Canada’s Natural Heritage Conservation Program (NHCP), part of Canada’s Nature Fund, and the Greenlands Conservation Partnership program, an initiative of the Government of Ontario administered by the Ontario Land Trust Alliance. We are also appreciative of individual supporters through the Land for Life campaign.
“Each new reserve tells a story. This one is about families who cared for the land and wanted to give something lasting to their community and to nature. Thanks to their vision, and to our partners, this reserve will protect critical habitats and connect vital corridors for generations to come.”
“We’re excited to support land protection near Washago, Ontario, through the Natural Heritage Conservation Program. Thanks to our work with The Couchiching Conservancy, 30 hectares are now permanently protected, helping connect important wildlife corridors and habitat for species at risk. It’s a meaningful step toward building a stronger, more resilient environment.”
"The Blackwell Brady Clark Nature Reserve is a great example of how we’re working with partners to protect Ontario’s natural heritage. Through the Greenlands Conservation Partnership program, we’re making sure important landscapes like this remain healthy and resilient for the benefit of communities today and for generations to come."
“I’m so pleased to congratulate The Couchiching Conservancy on the creation of its newest nature reserve, made possible through support from the Ministry of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature, the Ontario Land Trust Alliance, and Wildlife Habitat Canada. This investment will help protect critical habitats and biodiversity, while preserving the beautiful natural spaces that make our region such a special place to live. The Conservancy’s tireless work shows the power of partnership between community organizations and government to create lasting environmental benefits. I want to thank The Couchiching Conservancy for its leadership and continued dedication to protecting the lands and wildlife that define Simcoe North.”