Marsh Monitoring Program

Bird watching has become more popular than ever, particularly in the Essex region. Thousands of birdwatchers across Canada and the United States are putting their bird identification skills to science by participating in Bird Studies Canada's (BSC) bird population surveys. Funded by Environment Canada and the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation, data from BSC's volunteer surveys are used to identify significant population changes and help direct conservation planning.

BSC coordinates nine different bird monitoring programs within Ontario, including the Marsh Monitoring Program. Wetlands in all regions have been drained, filled, and polluted for decades, resulting in a reduction in population levels of many wetland dependent species. Wetlands are important ecological features in our landscape because they provide critical wildlife habitat, improve water quality, help stabilize shorelines, and absorb excess nutrients. Marshes in particular are vital habitat for secretive marsh birds and amphibians. Many species of marsh birds and amphibians have unfortunately show declines in their populations in recent decades.

In 2008, BSC has teamed up with the Essex Region Conservation Authority to identify a 'Regional Coordinator' for the Detroit River Area of Concern. The Regional Coordinator is available to local volunteer monitors for training, mentoring, and encouragement as they establish their own monitoring stations and routes. The coastal wetlands between the mouth of Turkey Creek and Canard River are high priorities for the Detroit River Remedial Action Plan (RAP), which is administered by the Detroit River Canadian Cleanup. Protection and rehabilitation of these coastal wetlands is critical, and the RAP would definitely benefit from a better understanding of the state of these wetlands via monitoring of bird and amphibian populations.