The Wetland Complex Nature Area is a large wetland area east of the Rotary Greenway Trail for about 1 km.
Maps
A) Satellite Imagery
1. Created in ArcGIS Pro (click to view full size). The right red outline in centre of figure (east of the Greenway Trail) delineates the nature area boundary. This wetland complex is essentially a long wetland/wet area with flow south towards Trent University, draining into the Otonabee (under the Greenway Trail and Nassau Mills Rd.) south of the hydro line right-of-way. It also includes a couple of forested areas.
2. Via Google Maps (shows latest satellite image available via Google Maps; will not show boundary).
Location and Use
The Wetland Complex Nature Area is located east of the Rotary Greenway Trail, north of East Bank Drive. It consists of two large areas that are connected by a stream that flows under the hydroelectric power line right-of-way.
Trails, Access, and Points of Interest
Much of the Nature Area can be viewed from the Rotary Greenway Trail, although there are no trails within the Nature Area itself.
Physical Description
The wetland complex occupies a long, narrow depression in a relatively flat, lowland plain. The eastern edge is bordered by small hills and a large drumlin. Natural drainage flows through this area between Ninth Line Nature Area and the Otonabee River.
Ecosystems and Species
Most of the vegetation includes a mix of open, wooded, and shrubby communities. Cedar is dormant in the treed swamps, while shallow marsh areas include cattails, grasses, and low shrubs.
Environmental Concerns
European Buckthorn is a prominent invasive in the area, and may suppress other native species.
The boundary of this Nature Area is not well defined, and may need to be further researched. The wooded drumlin slope to the west should be included because of its geological interest and its contributions to wetland hydrological processes.
Hydro One periodically crosses the shallow marsh, moving along the hydro corridor with heavy equipment, which removes any taller vegetation, and may damage some soil and other vegetation. Herbicides are also applied.
Nature Area History
The area is mainly agricultural, and there continues to be fields with agricultural activity in the area, including cattle pasturing. There are old remnants of dumped farm and household refuse in some wooded areas.
More Updates to Come!
We are working to post maps and physical descriptions of all the Trent University Nature Areas. Stay tuned!