Alfred-Kelly Nature Reserve

Nestled within the Piedmont and Prévost escarpments of the Laurentians lies the Alfred-Kelly Nature Reserve — a remarkable landscape of mature forests, wetlands and towering cliffs that provide vital nesting habitat for birds of prey. Since 2012, we have been protecting this special place and the wildlife that depends on it. Together, we can ensure it remains protected for generations to come.

A calm lake reflects the colorful autumn foliage of the surrounding forest.

Table of contents

Location

Quebec

Conserved since

2012

Habitat(s)

Forest, Wetlands, Lakes and rivers

Alfred-Kelly Nature Reserve at a glance

Located just over an hour from Montreal, this reserve protects nearly 500 hectares of forests, wetlands and dramatic cliffs.
The cliffs within the reserve provide vital habitat for more than 80% of all birds of prey species recorded in Quebec, making it an important refuge for these remarkable species.
Marked hiking trails welcome visitors to experience this remarkable landscape first-hand.

Why protecting Alfred-Kelly Nature Reserve matters

The Laurentians’ rich mosaic of forests, wetlands and escarpments make this a special landscape for wildlife and surrounding communities alike. But as the region rapidly develops, large natural spaces are becoming increasingly rare. Protected since 2012, the Alfred-Kelly Nature Reserve is a natural refuge for a wide range of wildlife, including the peregrine falcon. Together, we can ensure remarkable landscapes like this receive the permanent protection they deserve.

A refuge for nature

Located just 60 kilometres from Montreal, the reserve protects nearly 500 hectares of natural habitat in the Laurentians. Surrounded by growing communities, it provides an important refuge for native plants and animals and gives people the opportunity to connect with nature close to home.

Critical cliff habitat

The dramatic cliffs and escarpments of Piedmont and Prévost provide important nesting habitat for the peregrine falcon. Conserving these critical habitats protects this iconic species and the unique landscape it calls home.

A conservation legacy

The reserve’s conservation story began with ornithologist Alfred William Buchanan Kelly and his commitment to protecting peregrine falcon habitat. His efforts led to the protection of an important nesting area for peregrine falcons, laying the foundation for further conservation in the surrounding landscape. NCC later expanded this work, and the reserve was named in his honour when it received nature reserve status in 2012.

A group of people stands in a lush green forest looking out over a scenic view.

A frog sits on a fallen log in a pond surrounded by pink flowers.

What’s at stake?

The Laurentians are changing quickly, and growing development is putting increasing pressure on the natural habitats and species that make this region so special. Protecting this landscape means keeping its forests, wetlands and cliffs connected and intact, supporting healthy ecosystems and the wildlife that depends on them. It also keeps nature close to the communities that call the Laurentians home, ensuring these special places remain part of the region for years to come.

What could be lost?

Rapid development and increased recreational use could put pressure on the Alfred-Kelly Nature Reserve and surrounding ecosystems. Disturbance around sensitive areas, including peregrine falcon nesting sites, could disrupt wildlife and the habitats they depend on. Without continued protection, we risk losing what makes this place special: a rare refuge where wildlife can thrive and people can experience the wild beauty of the Laurentians for generations to come.

Why does it matter?

The reserve is home to a rich mosaic of forests, wetlands and cliffs that support a remarkable diversity of life. Many animals rely on these habitats for food, shelter and breeding, including the smooth greensnake and pickerel frog. Keeping these natural areas connected and healthy gives wildlife the space and resources they need not only to survive, but to thrive. These habitats also benefit surrounding communities by filtering and storing water, reducing erosion and flooding, and providing opportunities for people to experience and connect with nature close to home.

Why is action needed now?

As the region grows and more people visit, ongoing protection, restoration and stewardship are essential to keeping this landscape healthy and resilient. Continued care, management and monitoring will ensure the reserve continues to support wildlife, benefit nearby communities and contribute to a healthier landscape beyond its borders.

Where the peregrine falcon calls home

The peregrine falcon is one of the fastest animals on Earth, and it nests on high, undisturbed cliffs like those found at the Alfred-Kelly Nature Reserve. Once in serious decline, the falcon has recovered with careful protection of its nesting sites. By protecting these cliffs and limiting disturbance, we help ensure this remarkable bird can keep returning to raise its young.

A peregrine falcon perches on a dead tree branch against a green forest background.

A peregrine falcon perches on a tree branch against a clear blue sky.

A group of people work with large logs in a forest during the autumn season.

The plan in action

We’re taking ongoing action to keep the Alfred-Kelly Nature Reserve healthy, connected and thriving. Through conservation, ongoing stewardship and responsible access, we’re caring for its forests, wetlands and cliffs while giving wildlife the space they need to thrive. Together, these efforts ensure this natural refuge remains part of the Laurentians forever.

Protect

We are permanently protecting nearby ecologically significant areas to strengthen the reserve, maintain habitat connectivity and support a healthy broader landscape.

Steward

We are maintaining the reserve’s health through habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, visitor management and measures that reduce disturbance to sensitive habitats and species.

Connect

We are creating opportunities for people to responsibly explore, learn about and connect with nature while ensuring recreation supports the reserve’s conservation goals.

Protect places like this, forever

Donate now

Our partners

The Alfred-Kelly Nature Reserve is protected and cared for with the support of our donors, partners and surrounding communities.

We would particularly like to acknowledge the contribution of the late Mr. Allan Aitken, who made it possible to acquire part of the reserve through the charitable organization E.R.S. Youth Development.