The first-ever Ten Thousand Turtle Trek is about to take place in the Serpent River watershed, nestled within the Township of the North Shore, just 40 kilometres southeast of Elliot Lake.
This event, which takes place on June 7, aims to highlight the urgent need for wetland conservation and the protection of at-risk species, particularly the flourishing turtle population in the region.
Participants will meet at 1339 Pronto Road before embarking on a hike through the wetlands surrounding Long Lake, located in the heart of Robinson-Huron territory.
The hike kicks off at 10 a.m. and spans about seven kilometres, with an estimated duration of five hours, wrapping up around 3 p.m.
For anyone who can’t join the trek but is interested in learning about the challenges faced by the turtles and the support from local Indigenous groups, members of the Grandmother Council will be on hand from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. to answer any questions. You can find them at the ceremonial area near the entrance to the trail.
Joining the group on this trek will be a special guest biologist, Gabriella Zagorski, who has dedicated significant time to studying the wetlands and turtles.
The pressing crisis that is currently unfolding in Northern Ontario threatens one of the region’s most vulnerable species—the Blanding’s turtle. The Township of the North Shore, situated between Sault Ste. Marie and Sudbury is facing a proposed quarry that jeopardizes crucial habitats for these endangered reptiles. The project is managed by Darien Aggregates Inc.
The quarry poses a serious threat to the delicate ecosystem that the Blanding’s turtle relies on for survival, say spokespeople for the North Shore Environmental Resource Advocates (NSERA). The group warns that the proposed site could wipe out nearly all the areas where these turtles hibernate, nest, and raise their young.
According to NSERA, the implications of this project extend far beyond the immediate area. The noise from blasting and heavy machinery, along with the draining of wetlands, could disrupt not only the turtles but the entire environmental balance.
Researchers from NSERA and Laurentian University have identified 56 individual Blanding’s turtles in the area, underscoring its importance as a sanctuary for this species.
“This issue goes beyond just turtles,” emphasizes Rhonda Kirby, President of NSERA. “Blanding’s turtle is an indicator species. Their health reflects the overall state of our environment. Protecting them means ensuring clean water, thriving wetlands, and preserving the natural heritage we all value.”
Kirby fears that Bill 5, if passed, will devastate the area, stating, 'If that happens, the entire area will be decimated.' This bill aims to create Special Economic Zones, amend the Endangered Species Act, and repeal various regulations, jeopardizing environmental protections, energy independence, species, community health, and Indigenous rights."
“This could mean that species like the Blanding’s turtle, which are endangered, could be taken off the list as well as other species,” explains Kirby.
Kirby also noted that a consultant working with Darien Aggregates has suggested creating ‘eco-passages’ to allow safe crossings for turtles under quarry roads that could otherwise disrupt their migration routes.
While this proposal may have its advantages for the quarry, it’s crucial to recognize that “reptiles may experience stress while searching for the entrances to these passages. This added pressure could make them more susceptible to injuries or predators,” Kirby explained.
The activist is skeptical about the feasibility of that solution due to the complexities involved. “There are countless factors to consider,” she explained. “For instance, these pathways would need to be illuminated, and a single female turtle might travel as far as four kilometres to reach her nesting site. It just isn’t possible.”
The urgency of this situation has united a coalition of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous groups in opposition to the quarry. This collective effort highlights the significance of the land and its ecosystems, which hold both cultural and environmental importance for many communities.
For over nine years, Rhonda and her husband, Tom Kirby, have been vocal opponents of the proposed 100-year lease for the rock quarry near their home by the Serpent River watershed.
“We believe education is key,” Kirby emphasizes. “That is why we have these awareness campaigns. The more people understand about these turtles and their habitats, the more likely they are to support their preservation.”
The crisis in Northern Ontario highlights the urgent need for immediate action. The future of the Blanding’s turtle hangs in the balance, and it is crucial for local, provincial, and federal authorities to grasp the seriousness of this situation.
The community is rallying together to ensure their voices are heard and that the vital habitat of the Blanding’s turtle is preserved for future generations.
“In light of development pressures, the call to protect these creatures is more urgent than ever. This is a plea not only for the turtles but for the health of the entire ecosystem that supports them—and ultimately, for everyone,” Kirby emphasized.
Elliot Lake Today reached out to Darien Aggregates Inc. for comment, but no response was received by the time of publication.
The trek consists of rugged, rocky trails with some inclines, making it less suitable for young children and those with mobility issues. Participants are encouraged to pack their own lunch and water.
To learn more about the Blanding’s Turtle, please visit https://answercommunity.ca/