Protecting nature to safeguard Saint John’s water supply March 16, 2026

Conservation milestone ensures clean, safe water for residents

Saint John, NB (March 16, 2026) – Important steps have been taken to enhance and safeguard the drinking water supply of Saint John and surrounding communities for today and generations to come.

More than 4,800 hectares (11,860 acres) of city-owned land within the Loch Lomond and Spruce Lake watersheds have received special conservation status. Mature, intact forests, lake shorelines and rich wetlands are now conserved and formally recognized for their importance to nature, and for the vital benefits they provide to the city and its residents.

The project is a partnership between the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), the City of Saint John and the governments of Canada and New Brunswick. This achievement is a result of two years of collaboration. Efforts to strengthen and recognize the conservation of these vital watershed areas also received support from Environment and Climate Change Canada, through the Natural Heritage Conservation Program, as well as the generosity of private donors.

This project is an example of the critical role that municipalities play in conservation; locally, nationally and globally. These city lands will contribute toward New Brunswick’s 15 per cent target for land conservation by 2027. While these lands and waters are not managed primarily for conservation, they provide long-term benefits for biodiversity similar to protected areas. By protecting healthy forests and wetlands, this project safeguards water quality and quantity, reduces water treatment costs through natural filtration, supports overall ecosystem health and lowers public health risks.

Guided by NCC’s expertise, this conservation milestone highlights the City of Saint John’s commitment to watershed stewardship and biodiversity protection. The land will continue to be managed by the city to balance ecological and social values. The city also works closely with the Atlantic Coastal Action Program (ACAP) to monitor water quality in its watersheds and remains committed to this ongoing collaboration. The partnership is a powerful example of all levels of government and conservation leadership working together to build resilience against nature loss. When nature thrives, people thrive.

Quotes

“Protecting our drinking water is one of the most important responsibilities we have as a city. By securing these watershed lands for the long term, we are strengthening the health and resilience of our community. This achievement shows our shared commitment to ensuring clean and safe water for the people of Saint John for generations to come.” — Donna Noade Reardon, mayor, City of Saint John

“Protecting these watershed lands helps us maintain clean and reliable drinking water for our community. By conserving these areas, we are supporting the natural systems that keep our water supply healthy and strong for the future.” — Dean Price, manager of source water protection, City of Saint John

“I’m proud to see more than 4,800 hectares of forests, shorelines, and wetlands in Saint John recognized for conservation, helping protect the watersheds that provide clean drinking water for our community. This is a great example of what’s possible when the Nature Conservancy of Canada and all three levels of government work together to protect nature and strengthen our community for generations to come.” — Wayne Long, MP for Saint John—Kennebecasis and Secretary of State (Canada Revenue Agency and Financial Institutions), Government of Canada

“This project highlights the important role municipalities and partners play in helping New Brunswick reach its conservation goals. By recognizing these forests, wetlands and shorelines in Saint John for their ecological value, we are supporting biodiversity, safeguarding water resources and contributing to our shared goal of conserving more land and water across the province.” — The Honourable John Herron, Minister of Natural Resources, Government of New Brunswick

““Conserving these watershed lands strengthens Canada’s efforts to safeguard clean drinking water, conserve habitats and build climate‑resilient communities. This project shows what we can achieve when governments and partners work together to protect the natural systems that support both people and wildlife.” — The Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature

“By conserving these watershed forests and wetlands, the City of Saint John is protecting wildlife habitat and safeguarding clean water, while recognizing the essential benefits these mature forests and rich wetlands provide to both nature and residents. This collaborative effort demonstrates how governments, organizations, and communities can work together for nature — protecting healthy ecosystems that support biodiversity and advance shared conservation goals.” — The Honourable Nathalie Provost, Secretary of State (Nature)

“This collaborative achievement shows what’s possible when people and communities come together for nature. By working at a scale unmatched in Canada, we’re delivering nature’s benefits, such as clean water and air that strengthen community resilience and directly benefit citizens and the planet.” — Emilie Day, New Brunswick program director, Nature Conservancy of Canada

About

City of Saint John
Situated in southwestern New Brunswick, the City of Saint John is a vibrant port city with a rich history and a dynamic future. Home to over 70,000 residents, our city is characterized by its welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community. Neighbours greet each other with a friendly “good morning” and support one another with genuine care. Saint John plays a pivotal role in regional and international trade, driving economic growth and fostering connections across the globe. Our municipal team reflects the city’s authenticity, providing comprehensive services with a focus on transparency, progressiveness, and results. We are committed to inclusivity and practicality, aligning with the community’s values and aspirations. Saint John blends historic charm with urban vibrancy, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. We are a small city, with a big heart—where tradition meets innovation and a passionate, hardworking community creates a thriving, supportive environment for all. Learn more at saintjohn.ca/en.

Nature Conservancy of Canada
Since 1962, the Nature Conservancy of Canada has brought people together to protect the lands and waters that sustain us all. As an environmental charity working hand in hand with communities, Indigenous Nations, governments and businesses, we deliver nature-based solutions at a scale no one else can. Our conservation work safeguards clean air and water, stores carbon and reduces the risks of floods and wildfires — protecting our health, strengthening local economies and building more resilient communities. Together, we unlock nature’s power, so life can thrive. Learn more at natureconservancy.ca.

Natural Heritage Conservation Program
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.

Contacts

Jensen Edwards
Acting Manager, External Affairs
C: 438-885-9157
jensen.edwards@natureconservancy.ca

Taylor McIntyre
Communications Officer
City of Saint John
C: 506.721.6275
communications@saintjohn.ca