The 133-acre Morton Nature Sanctuary, generously donated by Dr. Patricia Morton and David Morton in 2021, is home to dense forest stands and sensitive habitats that support at least two species at risk and an abundance of wildlife in the region.

This nature sanctuary lies within “The Land Between” landscape zone, an ecosystem of interest due to its unique, transitional habitat that incorporates features of the St. Lawrence Lowlands and the Precambrian Shield and contains a high diversity of flora and fauna.

The land supports two major forest types: Sugar Maple-dominated deciduous forest and a mature Hemlock-dominated mixed forest that also features old growth Red and White Pines. Throughout the rolling landscape, exposed, fractured granite is visible. The property’s deep valleys are home to vernal pools that support frogs and salamanders in the region.

The Morton Nature Sanctuary’s remarkable 1.5-kilometre natural, undeveloped lakefront shoreline and undisturbed forests provide habitats for migratory birds and for other species, including species at risk.

Learn more about the property and the Mortons’ reason for donating it in our interview with Dr. Patricia Morton.

At the request of the donors, the Morton Nature Sanctuary will not be open to public access and its location will not be disclosed in order to ensure the preservation of its sensitive habitats.