Pines, Malcolm Kirk Nature Reserve © Erica Orbendorfer
About
Containing one of the most botanically rich segments of the 640-hectare Long Swamp, the 45-hectare (112-acre) Malcolm Kirk Nature Reserve flourishes at the base of the Saugeen Bruce Peninsula.
Long Swamp is a Provincially Significant Wetland and an Area of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI).
Northern blue iris © Linda Read
Protection
Ontario Nature purchased this biologically rich property in 1972 after it had been optioned by our former nature reserves committee member Malcolm Kirk.
Initially called Long Swamp Nature Reserve, the property was renamed in Kirk’s honour to recognize his tireless involvement in protecting natural areas.
Stream and marsh, Malcolm Kirk Nature Reserve © Cali Fox
Characteristics
The western portion of the nature reserve is an open, minerotrophic fen on a floating sedge mat that extends into a small lake on an adjacent property. Most of the eastern section is wooded, with the wettest part being a combination of sphagnum mats and black spruce stands.
One of the few fens of this type on the Saugeen Bruce Peninsula, the property is home to sheep laurel, pale laurel, leatherleaf and small cranberry. The woods support red maple, paper birch, yellow birch, white cedar, balsam fir and hemlock.
Fungi and sphagnum moss, Malcolm Kirk Nature Reserve © Keeva Fitzpatrick
Stewardship
The Owen Sound Field Naturalists are the official stewards of the nature reserve. They are integral in protecting the natural heritage of the property. If you are interested in assisting or joining the club, please email membership@owensoundfieldnaturalists.ca. To learn more about volunteering as a nature reserve steward, please see our Volunteer Stewardship webpage.
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