Types of Conservation Land

Wetlands are lands covered by shallow water all the time, or in certain seasons, as well as lands where the water table is close to or at the surface. The abundant water causes the soil to be water-logged, and encourages growth of plants that either love the water or tolerate it well. Periodically soaked or wet lands that are being used for agricultural purposes and that no longer have the characteristics of wetlands are not considered wetlands under this program.

Wetlands play a crucial role in the province. They:

• provide vital habitat for rare and endangered wildlife and many other species;
• maintain and improve water quality;
• help stabilize shorelines and control flooding and erosion;
• provide spawning grounds for fish;
• help ensure a stable, long term supply of water, by functioning as groundwater recharge and discharge areas;
• supply many social and economic benefits, such as opportunities for outdoor recreation and tourism; and
• ensure opportunities for the renewable harvest of products such as timber, fuel wood, fish, wildlife and wild rice.

MNR has evaluated many wetlands more than 2 hectares (5 acres) in size, both in southern Ontario and parts of the north. Only wetlands that are evaluated as 'provincially significant' are eligible under the CLTIP.