Discover The Marsh:
Nestled on the picturesque north shore of the Lake St. Francis area of the St. Lawrence River, the Cooper Marsh Conservation Area is the proud legacy of the late Mr. William Cooper Sr., a past chair of the Raisin Region Conservation Authority. This cherished wetland is part of the larger Charlottenburgh Marsh - one of the most significant wetlands in all of Ontario. The Raisin Region Conservation Authority protects, enhances and restores this natural area.
Follow the wetland boardwalks to explore the treed swamp and isolated ponds. Climb the viewing tower and camera blinds to enjoy the more than 100 species of birds that call Cooper Marsh their home. Another 100 or so species can occasionally be sighted as they migrate through the area, including the magnificent Osprey, the Great White Egret and Black-Crowned Night Heron.
Stroll the trails to enjoy the forested areas and fields of wild flowers and sunflowers that are seeded specifically to attract a variety of waterfowl. Observers may be rewarded with close-up views of Virginia Rails, American Bitterns and even the rare Least Bittern which all nest at Cooper Marsh.
The Marsh is also home to many species of amphibians and reptiles including American Toads, Spring Peepers and Painted Turtles. Snapping Turtles can be found laying eggs alongside the walking trails each summer. Common mammals of the marsh include Beavers, Muskrats, Mink, Red Fox, Eastern Chipmunks and Little Brown Bats. Interpretive signage along the trails enhances the excursion. For your convenience a picnic area with a shelter and BBQ is located in the Conservation Area.
Cooper Marsh Conservators (CMC):
In 1997, the CMC was formed and through a variety of educational programs assists in the protection and promotion of the Cooper Marsh Conservation Area. This group includes member from the general public, business community, Corporation of the Township of South Glengarry, St. Lawrence River Institute of Environmental Sciences and the Raisin Region Conservation Authority. The CMC aims to raise the awareness of the importance of all wetlands and the group’s fundraising efforts help offset a portion of the Marsh’s annual operating costs.
Visitors Centre:
Visitors to the Marsh can enjoy the many audio/visual and display rooms in this exceptional learning facility. The Visitors Centre is handicap accessible and has public washrooms.
Education Programs:
Immerse yourself in discovering the fascinating secrets of nature’s inhabitants and their environment. Throughout the year The St. Lawrence River Institute of Environmental Sciences offer day camps and interactive workshops for all ages. These bilingual programs are strategically designed to meet curriculum expectations, making the Marsh an excellent outdoor educational experience.
Annual Events At Cooper Marsh Conservation Area
Magic At The Marsh Puddle Duck Egg Hunt
Educational Summer Camps
Cooper Marsh Website
