In spite of significant wetland loss across the southern portion of the province, central Ontario’s Simcoe County, still sees good numbers of waterfowl during the spring and fall migrations. This is largely due to the presence of the large-scale marshes like those found at Matchedash Bay.

The 1,633-hectare Matchedash Bay wetland area near Coldwater is a model wetland project for DUC for many reasons:

We've challenged ourselves to complete 75 conservation projects across the province in DUC's 75th anniversary year!

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• four wetland conservation projects are managed for staging and breeding waterfowl.
• two upland areas of native grass offer ideal habitat for grassland species and nesting waterfowl.
• breeding populations of mallard, wood duck and blue-winged teal raise their young at the marsh.

Matchedash Bay was the first Ontario project under the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. Recognized by the provincial government as one of the most significant wetlands on Georgian Bay, it is also a Ramsar wetland of international importance. According to BirdLife International, it is an “important bird area of international significance”. Public access is allowed along established walking trails and interpretive facilities are offered.

With fantastic wetlands like Matchedash Bay requiring maintenance and ongoing repair, your support of DUC is more important than ever.

Learn more at Marl Tiny Matchedash (MTM) Conservation Association.