Protecting Nature's Future

Tucked away in beautiful Cambridge-Narrows is a stunning 350-acre forest, considered “one of the last of its kind in New Brunswick” and protected by Community Forests International, an organization that works in Canada and internationally, protecting and restoring vital forests. The Robinson Conservation Forest is named for the family that managed it for generations and is now cared for by Community Forests International.  

With the support of a $3,000 Community Grant from the Fredericton Community Foundation, Community Forests International is restoring 3.3 kilometres of trail in the forest, improving access to outdoor activities and providing participants with educational opportunities on the role of the Wabanaki Forest (also known as the Acadian Forest). 

“In addition to trail restoration, the project aims to increase understanding of the forest’s place in Wolostoqey territory,” says Natsuki Kyokane, development and grants coordinator with Community Forests International. “That’s the primary goal for us.” 

The Robinson Conservation Forest is in the Canaan-Washademoak Watershed System which itself is part of the Wolastoq Saint John River Watershed System. Full of old growth, the forest has benefited from careful stewardship for hundreds of years. 

Natsuki calls the Fredericton Community Foundation’s support “absolutely critical for our work in Cambridge-Narrows.” 

“This trail restoration will overall help improve the accessibility and safety of the forest for the community in Cambridge Narrows, creating opportunities for locals and visitors to not only enjoy nature but also learn about the Wabanaki forest's role in mitigating climate impacts and the long history of careful stewardship by the Wolastoqey Nation,” she said.  

If you would like to support projects such as the Robinson Conservation Forest Trail Restoration, please visit fredfdn.ca/donate or contact us at info@fredfdn.ca to learn how you can help.