Media Release
June 17, 2025, Tobermory – Freshwater is one of the most precious resources on the planet. On Lake Huron’s northern Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula, where only about eight kilometers of undeveloped and unprotected shoreline remain, the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) has announced the protection of almost one kilometer of Lake Huron shoreline and coastal habitats.
The 29-hectare conservation project is located west of Tobermory in an area known as China Cove and features thriving wetlands, forests and alvars that help to expand on an existing network of over 24,200 hectares of protected and public lands on the Peninsula. These habitats provide important services for people and communities such as protecting our drinking water and air quality and are a sanctuary for species like eastern Massasauga (threatened), Hill’s thistle (threatened), and midland painted turtle (special concern).
China Cove was originally named after the wreck of the China, a two-masted schooner that wrecked offshore in 1883. During a recent visit, Miptoon, an elder from the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation and NCC regional advisory board member, heard the water crying out to him telling stories of the wreck. Following the property’s protection, NCC will call the area Aah Mahwi Nibi (Crying Water) to remember the China.
The property was at immediate risk of development, but thanks to the collaboration of local landowners, partners and NCC supporters, these lands and waters are now protected forever. This special lakeshore property extends nearby existing conservation lands in an area popular for birdwatching, nature appreciation and viewing Lake Huron’s coastal sights. NCC looks forward to continuing to work with the local community on this project and stewarding these lands. We encourage people interested in exploring nature on the Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula to visit brucegreysimcoe.com.
This project was made possible by the support of many individuals, foundations and partners including the Government of Canada through the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund and the Government of Ontario through the Greenlands Conservation Partnership Program, and the Bruce Power’s Environment and Sustainability Fund.
Quotes
“The protection of Aah Mahwi Nibi (Crying Water) is a crucial step in ensuring that the species relying on its rare and sensitive habitats continue to thrive for generations. By safeguarding these ecosystems, we are not just preserving a place—we are actively protecting biodiversity and deepening the connection between people and nature, of which we are all a part. Conservation is a shared responsibility, and I feel incredibly grateful to work alongside a passionate community dedicated to protecting the species and landscapes we are privileged to share this Earth with.” – Esme Batten, Program Director, Midwestern Ontario, Nature Conservancy of Canada
“When I am meeting with colleagues at Queen’s Park and they realize where I am from, they always recall Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound for its stunning natural beauty and heritage. I am so pleased to see community and nature come together to see China Cove be protected for generations to come. I would specifically like to recognize the donors behind this project, for whom this is certainly not possible.” – Paul Vickers, Member of Provincial Parliament, Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound.
Facts
Protecting coastal habitats like the Aah Mahwi Nibi (Crying Water) project is critical for maintaining the ecological health of Lake Huron and surrounding areas. These habitats support a diversity of species, from American black bear who travel long distances, to wood ducks, a species of duck that nests in the hollows of trees.
Large intact systems of protected lands provide essential habitat for species as their ranges are shifting northward due to climate change
Coastal conserved lands like Aah Mahwi Nibi (Crying Water) support water systems that filter into Lake Huron and unique alvar communities that sustain rare plant species that are thought to have originated when glaciers had retreated, such as ram’s head lady’s-slipper.
