One of Grey County's largest wetlands may soon see an increase in the turtle population.
Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) has been given $32,000 from the Greenbelt Foundation to help protect at-risk turtles in Bognor Marsh.
The funding will be put toward the Echoes of the Marsh project, a multi-layered conservation initiative designed to protect vulnerable turtle species, particularly the common snapping turtle and painted turtle.
"Despite its importance, turtle populations face persistent challenges, including annual nest predation and road mortality," GSCA said in a statement.
The conservation authority added it aims to protect nests and improve hatchling success, increase public understanding of turtle conservation and wetlands, as well as promote Indigenous language and knowledge through bilingual signage, build community stewardship and volunteer engagement, and expand environmental curriculum for local youth.
Bognor Marsh spans 668 hectares with marsh, upland forests, reforested areas, springs, and Bruce Trail access. It is a vital property within Ontario's Greenbelt, which is marking 20 years as a globally recognized landscape that safeguards natural heritage, farmland, and biodiversity across the region.
