Miscou Island Marram Grass Planting

Help re-plant marram grass and stabilize sand dunes on Miscou Island shores.

Looking for an opportunity to help protect coastal habitat? Join the Nature Conservancy of Canada for a day of marram grass-planting and dune restoration on Miscou Island.

Climate change is bringing more frequent and intense storms, threatening coastal homes, roads and wildlife habitat. The dunes of Miscou Island protect the coastline from wind and wave erosion during storms. However, this vital protective barrier has weakened over time and formed gaps called dune blowouts, where vegetation has been lost and sand is easily blown away.

Together, we will repair dune blowouts by planting marram grass, a native plant with large root systems that hold the sand in place. By restoring these dunes, you will help protect wildlife habitat and improve the resilience of Miscou Island’s coastline for years to come.

Participants will meet at the south end of Chemin Ward, on Miscou Island for a quick introduction before walking 850 m down the beach to the dune site to plant marram grass.

About this event:

• Moderate fitness level is required
• Repetitive motion
• A 1 km walk each way will be required to access to the volunteer location
• There are no toilets on site
• All tools and gloves will be provided by NCC
• Water and snacks will be provided

Equipment to bring with you

• sturdy hiking boots or sneakers
• long pants
• light layers
• rain jacket
• full water bottle
• lunch
• snacks
• hat
• bug spray
• sunscreen
• any necessary medications
• binoculars (optional)

Please note

Additional event details, including driving directions and parking instructions, will be provided closer to the event day. Please come prepared for the weather, the work and the bugs.

All local health and safety restrictions and guidelines will apply.