Greenbelt Foundation Funds Turtle Conservation and Indigenous Language Project at Bognor Marsh
The Greenbelt Foundation is funding GSCA’s "Echoes of the Marsh" project to protect at-risk turtle species and promote Indigenous language in Bognor Marsh, Grey County.
The Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) has received new funding from the Greenbelt Foundation to support Echoes of the Marsh, a conservation and education initiative focused on protecting at-risk turtle species in Bognor Marsh and promoting Indigenous language and cultural connections to the land.
Located in the Bognor Marsh Management Area—one of Grey County’s largest and most ecologically significant wetlands—the project will target ongoing threats to turtle populations, particularly the Common Snapping Turtle and the Painted Turtle. Both species face challenges from nest predation, road mortality, and habitat pressures.
The funding announcement comes during the 20th anniversary of Ontario’s Greenbelt, which protects over two million acres of environmentally sensitive land and farmland.
Bognor Marsh is part of this protected landscape, spanning 668 hectares of wetland, upland forest, reforested areas, and Bruce Trail access. According to the GSCA, the project contributes to the Greenbelt’s goals by combining direct conservation with community engagement and educational programming.
Key elements of the Echoes of the Marsh project include:
Protecting turtle nests and improving hatchling survival rates.
Installing bilingual signage to promote Indigenous language and traditional knowledge.
Engaging local volunteers in conservation activities.
Providing public education on turtle conservation and the ecological value of wetlands.
Delivering curriculum-linked environmental programs for local youth.
GSCA says the project will help build long-term stewardship by connecting people—especially students—to the ecological and cultural importance of Bognor Marsh.
Through a combination of hands-on conservation and educational outreach, Echoes of the Marsh aims to strengthen both biodiversity and community ties to this protected Greenbelt site.
Further updates on programming and volunteer opportunities are expected as the project progresses into 2026.
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