Dorchester Swamp

The Dorchester Swamp is a significant natural area in Ontario. This 548 hectare (1354 acre) site is recognized as a Class 1 Provincially Significant Wetland, a Carolinian Canada Site and an Area of Natural and Scientific Interest (ANSI). The swamp is recognized by the Township of North Dorchester and the County of Middlesex in their Official Plans. The area has exceptional species richness for southern Ontario and contains flora representative of different regions across Canada. Many rare plants and birds are also found in the Dorchester Swamp.

The swamp is a cultural landmark with a rich archaeological heritage. However, the wetland is divided by Highways 401 and 73, and there are many activities affecting its future. Local landowner care is key to the preservation of this important area.

The Dorchester Swamp Management Strategy was a community-based process that brought together more than 125 people over a ten month period. The result is a strategy for addressing the human pressures that affect this significant natural area.

Thirty-seven other communities in Ontario will be using the Dorchester Strategy as the basis for developing plans for significant natural areas in southern Ontario’s Carolinian life zone. This life zone has long been recognized as a unique area in Canada, with many interesting and rare plants and animals.

Implementation of the strategy began in 1998 with concerned community members guiding the Action Plan process. Priority actions include monitoring surface and ground water and increasing opportunities for information and education.