Fighting climate change, severe weather and erosion in eastern PEI October 14, 2025

Public support needed to conserve critical forest, shoreline and wetlands

Murray Harbour, PEI – The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is asking for the public’s help with its largest land purchase and biggest singular project in the charity’s 47-year history on Prince Edward Island.  

Kiwto’qitek (pronounced “Geyou-dough-ed-deg” in Mi’kmaq), or what is locally called Point Pleasant, is an ecologically significant peninsula near Murray Harbour featuring close to five kilometres of sandy shoreline that wrap around 202 hectares of intact Wabanaki (Acadian) forest and wetland habitat.   

At risk of being developed, NCC has stepped up to acquire the site for conservation purposes and develop a long-term management and stewardship plan. Otherwise, this beautiful and ecologically rich natural area could be lost forever. The forested area provides habitat for a variety of rare bog plants, including cloudberry, round-leaf sundew and black crowberry, as well as at-risk birds, such as olive-sided flycatcher and eastern wood-pewee. 

NCC has raised 80 per cent of the required funds thanks to contributions from private donors along with Environment and Climate Change Canada, through the Natural Heritage Conservation Program and the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund. NCC is appealing to Island residents, businesses, foundations, outdoor lovers and conservation-minded people across the region to help raise matching funds.   

Supporting Kiwto’qitek (Point Pleasant) is the perfect way to contribute to NCC’s conservation work in forests across Canada. NCC has been making a concerted effort to protect 500,000 hectares of forests across the country by 2030. Coastal forested areas play an increasingly important role in the fight against climate change. Intact coastal ecosystems are more resilient to extreme weather events, rising sea levels and accelerated erosion. Forests store carbon, absorb excess water and provide shelter from storms. Joining NCC in this effort will enhance the climate resilience of our local communities.   

The value of this initiative is over $5 million, including all project costs. People interested in learning more and donating to make this a reality can visit https://www.natureconservancy.ca/pointpleasant.  

Quotes

“I am so thrilled with the progress made so far and the conversations with Island residents over the summer months. It is exciting to mobilize people to make conservation happen on a larger scale for PEI. Mature coastal forests like this one are incredibly rare for the island, and we are urging people to join us, so it is conserved for all Islanders to enjoy. We are grateful for the Natural Heritage Conservation Program of Environment and Climate Change Canada along with all other supporters so far, and we encourage people who love PEI’s nature to help this historic project.” – Lanna Campbell, NCC program director in Prince Edward Island 

“When communities come together, we can ensure ecologically rich areas like Kiwto’qitek (locally called Point Pleasant), Prince Edward Island, remain protected for generations to come. With meaningful progress already underway, support from the Natural Heritage Conservation Program and the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund is helping launch conservation efforts in this important coastal forest.” – The Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada   

“Through collaborative, community-driven conservation, the protection of Kiwto’qitek is helping advance Canada’s commitment to nature-based climate solutions. This unique coastal forest offers more than ecological value—it’s a living landscape that supports biodiversity, strengthens climate resilience, and deepens cultural connection. By investing in its preservation, we’re safeguarding both the environment and the legacy it holds for future generations.” – The Honourable Nathalie Provost, Secretary of State (Nature) 

“It’s impossible to visit Prince Edward Island and not fall in love with the beautiful scenery and beaches. When we heard about the Kiwto’qitek project, we knew we should help NCC to protect this special place.” – Bruce MacLellan & Karen Girling, Donors

Facts 

• The Mi’kmaq word Kiwto’qitek is the original name for the Greek River, which flows around the northern side of the peninsula. It translates to “reverberating echo” or “surrounding.”   

• Kiwto’qitek (Point Pleasant) sits on the edge of Murray Harbour, near the five Murray Harbour islands which are protected by NCC and conservation partners. Adding this landscape to the conservation area will allow wildlife to roam freely and thrive in the forests and shorelines of Murray Harbour.  

• Wabanaki (Acadian) forest is one of the rarest forest types in North America. The forest at Kiwto’qitek (Point Pleasant) contains white birch, black spruce and several notable tree species, including rare red pine (imperilled) and red oak, the province’s official tree, both of which are considered vulnerable on the island.   

About 

As Canada’s largest environmental charity, the Nature Conservancy of Canada has worked with partners to conserve natural landscapes since 1962. Together, we deliver solutions to address the dual crises of biodiversity loss and climate change through large-scale and long-term conservation. We create lasting change for the planet and its people by partnering with Indigenous Nations and communities, governments and businesses around shared interests. Nature makes it possible. To learn more, visit natureconservancy.ca.

The Government of Canada’s Natural Heritage Conservation Program (NHCP) is a unique partnership that supports the creation and recognition of protected and conserved areas through the acquisition of private land and private interest in land. To date, the Government of Canada has invested $500 million in the Program, which has been matched with more than $1 billion in contributions raised by Nature Conservancy of Canada, Ducks Unlimited Canada and the country’s land trust community leading to the protection and conservation of over 830,000 hectares (2 million acres) of ecologically sensitive lands. 

Media contact 

Andrew Herygers
Communications Manager, Atlantic Canada
Nature Conservancy of Canada
T: 902-880-8108
E: andrew.herygers@natureconservancy.ca