During the early days of continental
collision, the Maritimes were fused to the landmasses
that today we call Greenland, Scotland and Norway.
That's one reason why people often remark
that the Fundy coast resembles the Scottish
Highlands. The landscape originated in undersea
volcanic activity, which accounts for its mineral
rich soils and good drainage. There are very
few wetlands along the Caledonia Highlands plateau
because the rivers have cut such steep, direct
paths to the ocean. These rivers were excellent
spawning grounds before humans altered their
nature. The area has an extensive history of
human use, dating back to the early 1800's.
Most of the park was logged, and the rivers
were scoured by the wood harvest making its
way to the mills. The land surrounding the park
continues to be logged, making the protected
space very much an 'island of wilderness'.
The Greater Fundy Ecosystem Research Group is
engaged in studies to determine the sustainability
of the surrounding forestry industry with the
long- term viability of native wildlife.
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Fundy is one of the few national
parks to offer both a backcountry wilderness
experience and an extensive development of recreational
activities. In addition to wilderness campgrounds
and over 120 km of hiking trails, there are
housekeeping chalets, motel units, tennis courts
and lawn bowling greens, as well as a nine-hole
golf course, all within the park.
The heated salt-water swimming
pool overlooks the bay, but is shielded from
the ocean breezes by a wall of glass. The visitor
centre near the park's east entrance features
educational displays and schedules for the many
family oriented activities provided by the park
staff, which include the famous 'beach crawl'
at low tide, guided walks through the forest,
nature programmes for children and evening programmes
in the park's outdoor theatre.
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