Mississippi WatershedMississippi Watershed Conservation Areas

Purdon Conservation Area is a unique wetland famous for its exceptionally large native colony of Showy Lady's Slipper Orchids.  Each year, between mid-June and early July, 16,000 magnificent orchids burst into delicate pink and white bloom. It is extremely rare to find a colony of this size and Purdon's is the largest in Canada. The colony exists today thanks to the care and cultivation of Mr. Joe Purdon. Mr. Purdon was a pioneer of land stewardship and a great asset to our community. The wetland was originally part of Mr. Purdon's farm. Through careful management of the few dozen orchid plants he discovered on this property in the 1930s, Mr. Purdon grew the colony to over 16,000 blooms. Mississippi Valley Conservation acquired the site in 1984 and pledged to preserve if for the enjoyment and enrichment of future generations

The Morris Island Conservation Area is located along the Ottawa River near the community of Fitzroy Harbour. This 47 hectare site consists of forested woodlands and wetlands that will appeal to nature enthusiasts of all ages. Mississippi Valley Conservation manages this site for day-use recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, canoeing, fishing and natural interpretation. Accessible facilities for the physically challenged include nature trails, fishing platforms, washrooms and picnic areas. Canoeing is only permitted within the bay areas of the island due to water level fluctuations from the hydro dam located downriver.  The Morris Island Conservation Area is open to the public year round. However some of the facilities are not operational during the winter months. When visiting the site please follow the conservation area rules and regulations and assist us in conserving this area for future generations.

Mississippi Valley Conservation owns and operates the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area, a 154 acre site where you will find the R. Tait McKenzie Memorial Museum as well as an extensive network of field and forest trails for hiking, skiing and snowshoeing.  The R. Tait McKenzie Memorial Museum pays tribute to the life and times of Dr. McKenzie, a native of the area. McKenzie was a respected physician and physical educator who led a life rich in art and philosophy.

The conservation area also provides a brilliant natural backdrop to the Mississippi Valley Conservation education program. Within the 154 acres, students encounter the Indian River, mature forest and open fields. The comprehensive education program explores many aspects of the environment from stream studies to soil profiling and wildlife habitat. The programs are curriculum based to meet the needs of elementary students from kindergarten to Grade 8 with an emphasis on water, conservation and stewardship.

Source: Mississippi Valley Watershed