The Grand Codroy Estuary

Brooms Brook, Grand Codroy Valley, Newfoundland and Labrador (Photo by NCC)

There is nothing quite like the Codroy Valley in all of Newfoundland and Labrador. Sheltered by the Long Range Mountains, the landscape opens up to a scenic, rolling countryside that follows the Grand Codroy River to the ocean. The area is a haven for nature lovers, historians, travellers and, most notably, birds. A Wetland of International Importance, the Grand Codroy Estuary is the only Ramsar (International Convention on Wetlands) site in Newfoundland and Labrador, and has two internationally recognized Important Bird Areas (IBAs).

This international acclaim is well deserved. Over 100 species of birds have been identified in the Codroy Valley, including songbirds, shorebirds and waterfowl. It’s not just the birds that make this area special. A number of rare plant species, such as eastern hay-scented fern and Fernald’s serviceberry, are known to occur in the estuary. If you want to see birds and unique plants that are uncommon in the rest of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Codroy Valley is the place to go.

The Nature Conservancy of Canada's (NCC’s) Grand Codroy Estuary Nature Reserve is a collection of properties around the Grand Codroy River, totalling 293 hectares. NCC relies on strong community ties and support to ensure the success of our conservation efforts in the Codroy Valley. When NCC staff are absent, we are grateful that the community takes care of these ecological treasures. NCC has long had a successful stewardship presence in the Codroy Valley area. We make annual efforts to initiate and lead educational outdoor activities related to habitat conservation, including Conservation Volunteers and community outreach events.

The Codroy Valley Area Development Association maintains a trail, accessible from the Wetland Interpretation Centre, that provides hiking access to one piece of NCC’s Nature Reserve.

There is a current opportunity to conserve additional wetlands and protect more of the Grand Codroy Estuary. To contribute toward this nature reserve, please contact the Nature Conservancy of Canada at 1-877-231-4400.