Redfir Lake-Kapitagas Channel Ecological Reserve

The two parcels of the Redfir Lake-Kapitagas Channel Ecological Reserve, located in southwestern Labrador, protect the only known natural stands of Jack Pine in the province, and the most easterly occurrence of this tree species in North America.

Jack Pine Needles and Cones

Jack Pine grow in northern areas with dry, infertile soils that cannot support other tree species. The tree’s range extends farther north (in western Canada) than any other North American pine tree.

This tree species is highly fire-dependent-its hard-surfaced cones, 4 to 5 cm long, are tightly sealed and bonded by resin and it takes the heat of a fire to open them and release their seeds. Jack Pine also reproduce quickly, reaching reproductive maturity within 10 years.

The naturally occurring Jack Pine in the reserve’s two parcels are in different stages of growth. In the smaller (3 km2) area near Redfir Lake, the trees are recolonizing following fire. In the larger (79 km2) Kapitagas Channel area to the north, Jack Pine grow in mature, almost pure stands. This variety of successional stages is an indicator of ecosystem health.

The separation of the reserve’s two sites is important to the management of the species. In the unfortunate event that one site is devastated (by disease or infestation, for example), the other may remain healthy and serve as a seed source.

Treestand

Both parts of Redfir Lake-Kapitagas Channel Ecological Reserve lie within Labrador’s Mid Subarctic Forest ecoregion (730 KB), in which Black Spruce is the most common tree. Cladina and Cladonia lichens are also prominent in the forest’s under-story.

There is no road access to either part of the Redfir Lake-Kapitagas Channel Ecological Reserve.

Redfir Lake-Kapitagas Channel Ecological Reserve was given provisional status in 1995, and was fully designated in 1999.

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How to get thereHabitat of Redfir lake

The two portions of the Redfir Lake-Kapitagas Channel Ecological Reserve are located in southwestern Labrador, south of Ashuanipi Lake and about 160 km southeast of Labrador City.

The reserve is in a roadless wilderness area. Users must access the reserve by aircraft or boat. Caution: Even though there appears to be plenty of water, users are advised to consult local experts or check water levels before choosing a travel route. Beware of shoals and rocks below water level.

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Activities

Hunting, trapping, fishing, hiking, camping, and canoeing are all permitted in the Redfir Lake-Kapitagas Channel Ecological Reserve, though there is no road access. Permitted motorized vehicles include boats and snowmobiles, but ATV use is prohibited.

Caribou Path

All hunting, fishing, and trapping activities must occur in the appropriate seasons and participants must hold valid licences. Building a fire is prohibited with the reserve’s borders.

Scientific research may also take place in the reserve. For more information and research guidelines, see Science & Research.

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Services

There are no services in the reserve. However, the Department of Natural Resources has a patrol cabin in the reserve which has been used for research purposes.

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Fees and Schedule

There are no fees involved in obtaining scientific research, commercial operator or educational tour permits. The reserve is open year-round.

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Rules and Regulations

Biodiversity protection and habitat conservation are two of the key purposes of ecological reserves, so certain rules apply within all the reserves in the province.

The public can visit most ecological reserves for educational purposes or low-impact recreational activities, such as hiking or sightseeing.

The following activities are strictly prohibited in all wilderness and ecological reserves:

  • Disturbing, destroying, or removing plants, animals, or fossils
  • Introducing plants, animals, or anything else to the reserve landscape
  • Forestry, mining (including exploration), hydro development, agriculture, new roads, tracks, or building construction
  • Driving off-road vehicles including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs)

At the Redfir Lake-Kapitagas Channel Ecological Reserve:

  • No entry permit is required
  • ATVs are not permitted in the reserve
  • Building fires is prohibited
  • Taking seeds, seedlings, or plant cuttings is also prohibited

Read the official reserve regulations:

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