Collectively, Ontario's 36 Conservation Authorities own and protect a total of 80,000 hectares, including forests, wetlands, areas of natural and scientific interest, recreational lands, natural heritage and cultural sites, as well as, land for flood and erosion control. 

NBMCA owns close to 700 hectares of land, 436 of which are under forest management, and manages more than 35 km of trails.

Conservation areas play an important environmental, educational and recreational role contributing to the physical and mental well-being of the people who visit them and the economic well-being of the communities. Conservation Areas:

• protect forests, wetlands, plant life and wildlife, and improve the overall health of our watersheds, including the quality and supply of our water resources such as recharge areas.
• encourage people to get outdoors and be active, as well as enjoy and appreciate nature.
• contribute to tourism, an economic driver for the region

When visiting a Conservation Area, please remember,
take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints.

• It’s important to stay on the trail and not pick any plants or trees.
• Dogs are allowed in Conservation Areas provided they are leashed.
• Please help us keep Conservation Areas clean by picking up and disposing of pet waste.
• Hunting and motorized vehicles are not permitted in any Conservation Area.

You may encounter wildlife such as bears, foxes, coyotes, skunks, and porcupines in these natural areas.  Be aware of your surroundings and ensure garbage is placed in the bear-proof containers at most trailheads.

NBMCA is a member of Discovery Routes and Ontario Trails Council  

Trail Closures and Service Disruptions

October 22, 2024

EAU CLAIRE GORGE CONSERVATION AREA  - Gate and washroom remain open for a few more weeks.
ELK'S LODGE 25 FAMILY PARK - Gate and washroom will be closed October 28 .
LA VASE PORTAGES CONSERVATION AREA -  Gate will be closed October 28.  
PAPINEAU LAKE CONSERVATION AREA - Dock has been removed from the water until next spring.
MATTAWA ISLAND - Bathroom remains closed.

For an up-to-date list of our service disruptions, visit Service Disruptions page for details.