Island Nature Trust acquires 219 acres north of Souris

Island Nature Trust (INT) recently acquired 219 acres (88.63 ha) north of Souris, now named the MapleCross – Eastern Kings Hardwoods Natural Area. Islanders and supporters across Canada responded to a fundraising call in February 2026 to help secure this rare and ecologically significant forest property in eastern PEI.

This acquisition represented a unique opportunity to expand protection within one of the Island’s most important forest complexes. Strategically positioned among several other protected areas owned by INT and the Province of PEI, the land forms part of a remarkable stretch of some of the oldest Wabanaki Acadian forest remaining on the Island. The conserved lands in this region protect several at risk and provincially rare species, including Canada warbler, olive-sided flycatcher, and black ash.

Protecting this parcel has contributed to: conservation of wildlife corridors between existing protected areas; expanded protection for mature, multi-generational upland hardwood forest; and the sustainability of the long-term health of the Cross River, a priority waterway for Atlantic salmon.

Thanks to the generosity of Islanders and supporters across the world, the $100,000 campaign goal was exceeded, matching funds secured from MapleCross, the Government of PEI, and the Government of Canada. Funds that were raised beyond the $100,000 campaign goal have been allocated to a 75-acre purchase less than a kilometre from the recently acquired property.

For more information on the project, visit islandnaturetrust.ca/protect-easternkings.