Wachner Nature Preserve is a 9.4-hectare (23.2-acre) parcel of land located in Thames Centre. It 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 Preserve 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 are able to 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.
Photo courtesy of Daria Koscinski