Campaign to Preserve the Tanager Tract

The Thames Talbot Land Trust has until November 1, 2010 to raise money to protect forever the Tanager Tract, a 100 acre (40-ha) tract of Carolinian hardwood forest near West Lorne in West Elgin. 

The Tanager Tract is part of a 1000 acre (380-ha) forest known as the West Lorne Woods, a Provincially Significant Wetland (PSW) and an Area of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI). This woodland, widely regarded as one of the best examples of Carolinian forest in Elgin County and one its top botanical sites, is a precious remnant of the region’s original extensively forested landscape. It is home to many animal species-at-risk including the Cerulean Warbler and Spotted Turtle. Its deep forest is rare habitat for many uncommon breeding birds, such as the spectacular Scarlet Tanager, for which the property will be named.

This rich forest nurtures the growth of many hardwood trees unique to the Carolinian Zone. Large specimens of Eastern Flowering Dogwood, Black Gum, Sassafras and Swamp White Oak are abundant. The forest’s upland and swampy sections have a rich understorey of Spicebush, Witch Hazel and many varieties of ferns.

As a TTLT-protected area, commercial logging will cease and the Tanager Tract will be become available to the community for passive recreational use and quiet contemplation. An old logging path meandering along a well-drained sandy ridge provides an opportunity to develop a hiking trail through the property.

The campaign goal of $285,000 includes the purchase and transfer costs, natural heritage inventory and management planning, immediate stewardship expenses and a dedicated endowment fund for future expenses. Thanks to the generosity of Richard and Beryl Ivey the TTLT is able to match every dollar you contribute to the campaign.

The Conservation Challenge

Across the Carolinian region nature is in retreat, species are going extinct and the safety of our air and water are in doubt. We need to protect our natural areas and wildlife habitat for future generations. Unless we act to protect areas like the Tanager Tract now, many of these beautiful areas will disappear before our children and grandchildren have a chance to enjoy them. Outdoor recreation is a part of our life and protecting natural areas ensures that we continue to have places to hike and enjoy the wonders of nature.

Send your gift, make a pledge, and tell your friends.
Together, we can secure the future.

The Thames Talbot Land Trust has until November 1, 2010 to raise $285,000 to protect the Tanager Tract forever. We have a shared responsibility to protect our natural world and pass along to future generations the beauty, wildlife, water and resources that we enjoy today.

Protect the Tanager Tract
100 acres of the finest Carolinian Forest in Elgin County. Act now to secure this natural legacy!

How To Donate:
Canada Helps Website - Click Here

Mail your donation for any amount to the TTLT at Box 25054 London ON N6C 6A8
Make a Pledge using this form - Click Here