December 8, 2025
For immediate release
The Greenbelt Foundation supports GSCA’s “Echoes of the Marsh” Project to Protect At-Risk Turtle Species in Bognor Marsh.
Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) is pleased to announce new funding from the Greenbelt Foundation to support Echoes of the Marsh, a multi-layered conservation initiative designed to protect at-risk turtle species, particularly the Common Snapping Turtle and Painted Turtle, in Bognor Marsh Management Area, a vital property within the Greenbelt.
This announcement comes during a milestone year, as the Foundation celebrates the 20th anniversary of Ontario’s Greenbelt – a globally recognized landscape that safeguards natural heritage, farmland, and biodiversity across the region. GSCA is proud to contribute to this legacy through on-the-ground conservation within one of the Greenbelt’s ecologically significant wetlands. As part of this anniversary year, the project will also help highlight the Greenbelt’s long-standing commitment to public education by offering meaningful learning opportunities that connect communities, especially youth, to the ecological and cultural importance of protected landscapes like Bognor Marsh.
Spanning 668 hectares of marsh, upland forests, reforested areas, springs, and Bruce Trail access, Bognor Marsh is one of Grey County’s largest wetlands. Despite its importance, turtle populations face persistent challenges, including annual nest predation and road mortality. The Echoes of the Marsh project aims to address these pressures through community-based stewardship, Indigenous language integration, nest protection, and new educational programming.
With this funding, GSCA aims to:
- Protect at-risk turtle nests and improve hatchling success.
- Promote Indigenous language and knowledge through bilingual signage.
- Build community stewardship and volunteer engagement.
- Increase public understanding of turtle conservation and wetlands.
- Expand curriculum-linked environmental education for local youth.
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For more information:
Grey Sauble Conservation Authority
education@greysauble.on.ca
Background:
Vision: A vibrant watershed, supported by the GSCA, where ecosystems thrive, and communities are healthy, safe and prosperous.
Mission: To champion a healthy and safe watershed through innovative conservation efforts, sound planning, and inspiring education initiatives, now and in the future.