Submitted by Andrew Holland National Media Relations Director

Alberton, PEI (November 9, 2022) – The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) and the Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq are partnering to protect a culturally and ecologically significant island on the northwestern shore of Prince Edward Island. Kwesawe’k (pronounced “gweh-sah- weck”), also known as Oulton’s Island, was first identified as a high-priority protection area by NCC in the 1980s. Located in Cascumpec Bay, this 210-acre island is important habitat for migrating waterfowl and small animals, like snowshoe hare and red squirrel. The island’s mature forest is a nesting ground for great blue heron, double-crested cormorant and bald eagle. The Mi’kmaq word Kwesawe’k translates to “end of the island cape” or “end of the headland.”

NCC has negotiated the purchase of the site and is launching a fundraising campaign to acquire, manage and care for the island for five years, in collaboration with the Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq (PEI Mi’kmaq). After this time, it will be transferred to the Epekwitk Assembly of Councils, which is the joint forum that oversees and governs organizations that act in the shared interest of Abegweit First Nation and Lennox Island First Nation. The Epekwitk Assembly of Councils will continue to conserve and care for Kwesawe’k (Oulton’s Island) in perpetuity.

NCC is asking people, businesses and foundations to contribute to the acquisition of Kwesawe’k (Oulton’s Island). Donations will help protect this ...