Stewardship is "the careful and responsible management of something entrusted in one's care".
Garnish signed a Municipal Stewardship Agreement in October 2013. The agreement represents a formal public committment by the community and the province to act together to habitat for wildlife and people. It empowers a community to set aside important habitat for long-term conservation within designated areas for the benefit of present and future generations.
Garnish has two Management Units, totaling 208.4 acres. Frenchman's Cove Barasway has ideal staging habitat for many waterfowl species such as Canada geese, American black duck and Common goldeneye. Shorebirds can also be seen on the beaches of the Barasway, including Red knot, which is federally and provincially listed as an endangered species. Big Hill Pond includes two ponds and a 50 meter buffer surrounding the Management Unit. Large portions of the ponds are relatively shallow, containing generous amounts of emergent vegetation, providing food and shelter for many species of wildlife.
The conservation of wetlands depends not wholly on conservation plans or regulations but on the stewardship ethic of residents and visitors like yourself!
Why Conserve Wetlands?
1. Wetlands are among the most productive habitats in the world.
2. Wetlands hold water and help to prevent flooding.
3. Wetlands filter and purify water.
4. Wetlands provide a natural outdoor classroom.
5. Wetlands contain 35% of all rare, threatened and endangered species.
6. Wetlands can be used for recreational purposes (e.g. boating, fishing, hunting, and birdwatching).