Research
Photo by Bill Gibson
Projects
Our organization performs a multitude of tests in order to
assess the state of our watershed
Watershed Classification
Initial analysis suggests that the overall water quality in the Meduxnekeag River is relatively good. In the absence of historical water quality data, it is not possible to reach definitive conclusions on the state of the system in the past, but discussions with residents and stakeholders indicate a widespread perception that Meduxnekeag water quality was much lower in the middle to late 20th century than is the case today.
There are opportunities for further improvement in water quality, mainly through addressing point source and non-point source pollution identified in this report. We are working on these through our long term action plans.
Gravel Pit Restoration
The Meduxnekeag River Valley was formed over 12,000 years ago as the last glaciers retreated from the area. The resulting valley has extensive gravel deposits. The majority of the watershed is a fault-bound wedge of Ordovician sedimentary strata. Rocks within the wedge are dominated by greywacke, slate and siltstone of the Tetagouche groups, and are calcareous. The calcareous base is the key contributing factor to the occurrence of Appalachian Hardwood Forest.
The geology and subsequently the soils of the Meduxnekeag valley have created a natural environment that over the past centuries has been melded into a mix of forests, agricultural lands and development, predominantly residential.
The Meduxnekeag Valley Nature Preserve Red Bridge Gravel Pit Restoration project has been financed by the New Brunswick Environmental Trust Fund, New Brunswick Wildlife Trust Fund, The Meduxnekeag River Association and the by monies the organization received as a result of the Betco development at the Connell Road Walmart site.
The Meduxnekeag River Valley was formed over 12,000 years ago as the last glaciers retreated from the area. The resulting valley has extensive gravel deposits. The majority of the watershed is a fault-bound wedge of Ordovician sedimentary strata. Rocks within the wedge are dominated by greywacke, slate and siltstone of the Tetagouche groups, and are calcareous. The calcareous base is the key contributing factor to the occurrence of Appalachian Hardwood Forest.