The Land Between is a rare and unique bioregion that extends from the Georgian Bay Coast to the Ottawa Valley. It is the last intact wilderness expanse of southern Ontario, a final refuge for wildlife species, and a land of hope. The region is an irreplaceable source of ecosystem services, such as water filtration and pollution capture, that keep us healthy. However, it is also a fragile place where urban sprawl and habitat loss will compromise our long-term stability and ability to navigate the challenges of Climate Change.
As one of only a handful of federally recognized Community Nominated Priority Places, it represents a final opportunity to protect nature and the 59 species at risk who call it home.
Where is The Land Between?
The Land Between is a special geological region extends across central Ontario from the Frontenac Arch in the east to Georgian Bay and Southern Parry Sound. The region is more than 240km in length and over 50km in width that skirts the Algonquin Dome and spans 9 counties and 28 townships.
To learn more about the region's boundary and its detection read/download: The Land Between Boundary
The Land Between: As an ecotone
When travelling throughout Ontario, you will encounter large known ecosystems such as the St. Lawrence Lowlands, the Canadian Shield and further north, the Boreal Forest. But what lies between these areas? An “ecotone" is an area of transition containing elements from the ecosystems it borders and has entirely unique features. The physical character of The Land Between, as an ecotone, is shaped by fundamental geology, physiography, climate, and elevation transitions.
THE GEOLOGY
The Land Between is characterized by low relief exposed granite to the north side and “stepping stones” of limestone plain along the south side. Small and connected lakes and wetlands between these dry open ridges and patches of cool shaded forest are the patterns of this unique natural system. It is home to the only rock barrens in Ontario.
ABUNDANT SHORELINE
The Land Between has the highest percentage of shoreline to area than anywhere in the province, and is aptly called lake country in acknowledgement of this. The shoreline, or where land meets water, is an incredibly productive zone that is home to wildlife and also helps prevent erosion, filter water, reduce flooding, and more.
ABIOTICS
The Land Between is located in a unique plant hardiness zone; has its own growing degree days; has its own amount of frost free days, has the highest mineral diversity in Ontario. Generally the landscape has less than 15cm of soil cover. The lack of soils, together with the abundance of connected fresh water, and the starker climate make this landscape easy to damage. Pollution and disruption here is far-reaching and long-lasting.
BIODIVERSITY
The Land Between is located in a unique plant hardiness zone; has its own growing degree days; has its own amount of frost free days, has the highest mineral diversity in Ontario. Generally the landscape has less than 15cm of soil cover. The lack of soils, together with the abundance of connected fresh water, and the starker climate make this landscape easy to damage. Pollution and disruption here is far-reaching and long-lasting.
The Land Between: Interactive Map
More about The Land Between
What is an ecotone?
Rock barrens & water bodies in Ontario
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