Bird Studies Canada and JDI volunteers enhance critical nesting habitat for the endangered Piping Plover by removing over 350 kg of waste from New Brunswick’s Bouctouche dune.

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La Dune de Bouctouche was developed by J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) to preserve and restore one of the few remaining sand dunes on the Northeastern coastline of North America.

The sand dune stretches 12 kilometres across the Bouctouche Bay, a result of the constant action of wind, tides, and sea currents since the last ice age. And with every major storm, the dune’s shape continues to change. A rich variety of marine and aquatic plants and animals, specifically shorebirds and other migratory birds, have made the dune their home.

“We have a team of interpreters who deliver programs and presentations throughout the season making this coastal habitat one of the top eco-tourism sites in New Brunswick, " said Joanne Jaillet, Director of Irving Eco-Centre. 

For the last three years, Bird Studies Canada has organized a beach clean-up as part of the annual Bouctouche Eco-festival hosted by the Irving Eco-Centre. 

La dune de Bouctouche is a community sponsor of the Bouctouche Eco-festival. JDI recently hosted the 3rd annual Eco-Festival Dune walk.

“It was a fun day for families and volunteers. JDI provided the boat to ferry volunteers to the tip of the dune so that they could walk the 12 kilometer sand spit,” said Joanne Jaillet, Director of Irving Eco-Centre. “We also provided water and snacks at the half-way point of the dune walk."

In partnership with the Town of Bouctouche and Bird Studies Canada, JDI also organized the registration of volunteers who were willing to pick up beach debris during their walk.

"We thank everyone who participated in the event for all of their hard work and we look forward to hosting it again next year," said Denise Maillet, Coordinator of the South East NB piping Plover Project.   

About Irving Eco-Centre 

Located on the Northumberland Strait of New Brunswick, just minutes north of the town of Bouctouche, the dune offers a blend of recreational opportunities and learning experiences for anyone who wishes to enjoy its natural beauty.

Park visitors can use the boardwalk stretching along the dune to explore both the dune's wilderness and its salt marsh without endangering the sensitive ecosystems. Educational, interpretive displays and public tours are offered at the Irving Eco-Centre.

Park up-keep and educational programs are fully funded by J.D. Irving, Limited. 

To learn more about the Irving Eco-Centre click here.