Size: 23 acres

Established: 2021

Donors: Ann & Fritz Wachner

Status: Not Open to the Public

Protection: Donated

Photo courtesy of Daria Koscinski

Background:

Located in Thames Centre, Wachner Nature Preserve was generously donated to TTLT by Ann and Fritz Wachner, a couple who previously lived on the land and remained dedicated to its conservation throughout their time there. The Wachner’s spent much time planting a diverse range of native trees, which has created an arboretum in the meadow habitat.

Description:

This nature reserve has great value as it provides essential habitat for a multitude of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Understory shrubs such as Dogwood and Spicebush can prosper here as well as the Elm, Maple, and White Pine trees that provide the shrubs with much-needed shade. Wet, shallow depressions support species such as Water Avens, while Ferns, Mosses, and wildflowers thrive among the hummocks. Additionally, with the reserve partly located in the Dorchester Swamp, the Wachners' kind donation will allow TTLT to continue preserving this great Carolinian Canada Signature Site.