Overview
The Clark Gregory Nature Preserve is a 29 hectare (73 acre) preserve that includes the two headlands on either side of the entrance to Chocolate Cove. It is located at Chocolate Cove on Deer Island in the Bay of Fundy. Its most recent owner, Clark Gregory, left the preserve to The Nature Conservancy who subsequently transferred it to the Nature Trust.
History
On the preserve a 19th century cemetery can be found to the west of the shelter. It contains an obelisk listing the family members of Plato Lloyd, one of Chocolate Cove’s original settlers. There are several areas of the preserve that are popular among locals for enjoying picnics and scenic views.
Ecology
With its cliffs, forest, wetland, and meadow, this preserve offers a range of ecological types. Of particular interest is a stand of mature wild pear bushes, a species whose range is more southerly, making it uncommon in this area. A rare vascular plant, the small-flowered bitter-cress (Cardamine parviflora var. arenicola) and a rare distinctive moss (Isothecium myosuroides) can also be found in the preserve.
Access and Activities
This preserve can be accessed by the Letete Ferry to Deer Island.
The ferry to Deer Island leaves from Letete, approximately 10 kilometers southwest of St. George, NB. The Clark Gregory Nature Preserve is only three kilometers from the US/Canada border and may also be reached by intermittent ferry access from Eastport and Lubec in Maine.
The preserve can be accessed from the main road (route 772), where you can park at the Chocolate Cove docks. This property has two trails, the main trail forms a circle at the end and heads back in the same direction. The main trail starts and ends at the entrance forming a loop through the property, a sign is posted with more information. Another section of the preserve can also be accessed by route 772 via a residential driveway and turning towards the power line after about 150 meters.
*The property is undeveloped and there are a variety of hazards and risks associated with accessing this preserve. While this nature preserve is open for public access, visitors must assume responsibility for their own actions and safety and are to use the land at their own risk.