Limestone Barrens Ecosystem
Located along the western coast of Newfoundland, the limestone barrens are a unique and resilient ecosystem. This challenging landscape is the ideal habitat for many rare species, including three endangered plants, which can be found nowhere else on earth. One of these species is Long’s Braya, a small, flowering, arctic-alpine plant.
The situation
A rare and resilient ecosystem on Canada’s eastern edge
The limestone barrens of Newfoundland are remarkably scarce, comprising less than one per cent of the island’s total area. They are characterized by exposed rock surfaces, angular boulders, thin layers of gravel, and shallow soils. The landscape is constantly being shaped by frost action, wind, soil erosion, and heavy precipitation. The habitat supports sparse vegetation that is specialized to withstand frost disturbance. The limestone barrens are home to unique species, including growth-stunted trees, transient caribou, and a variety of plants. Among its treasures are three endangered plants found nowhere else, the Long’s Braya (Braya longii), Fernald’s Braya (Braya fernaldii) and Barrens Willow (Salix jejuna).
What is threatening the limestone barrens?
The rare Limestone Barrens habitats of Newfoundland’s Great Northern Peninsula have suffered significant degradation due to human activity. Ongoing threats to this ecosystem include disturbances like construction, housing development, quarrying, oil and gas exploration, and motorized vehicles. Biological threats include non-native insects like the diamondback moth and pathogens such as the fungus Fusarium, which can negatively impact the ecosystem’s stability. Climate change also poses a significant threat to this habitat and the species that live there, as it may result in changes to the forces that shape the landscape, including wind, frost, and precipitation patterns.
Our work
In collaboration with Memorial University of Newfoundland, the Limestone Barrens Species at Risk Recovery Team and other key collaborators, the Wilder Institute is supporting the restoration of damaged limestone barrens habitat for the endangered plants that rely on this unique ecosystem. In 2024, we are focusing on site preparation and re-shaping of the landscape at a previous quarry site, along with research to ensure the successful restoration of endangered plants. With our partners, we plan to reintroduce native plant species in the coming years.
Our conservation impact
Restoring and protecting Newfoundland’s limestone barrens habitat is essential for safeguarding its unique plant and animal species, some of which are found nowhere else on earth. This habitat not only supports vital scientific research but also plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological integrity and holds value for local communities. By preserving the limestone barrens, we bolster climate resilience and protect this fragile yet diverse ecosystem for future generations.
Did you know?
This unique habitat, known for its harsh conditions, is home to arctic-alpine plants that thrive in habitats with high amounts of calcium and magnesium and are adapted to low nutrient levels. Remarkably, of the nearly 300 rare plant species on the island of Newfoundland, approximately 10% are found exclusively in the limestone barrens and nowhere else on earth.
Teamwork
We are grateful for the collaboration of the following partners in helping with restoration activities: