Îles-Avelle-Wight-et-Hiam
Ecological Reserve

(Cadastral map of site also available: 90 K)

Situated in Lac des Deux Montagnes, this ecological reserve protects a group of islets and islands, the main ones being Avelle, Wight and Hiam.

The reserve is designed to protect various natural communities that typify local wetlands. On the largest island, called île Avelle, the terrestrial vegetation is characterized by sugar maple–hickory woods, whereas
the riparian component includes many different associations dominated by silver maple. In addition, 14 aquatic and semi-aquatic plant communities have been identified at the site. Overall, the ecological reserve has a rich and diverse flora. It is home to one vulnerable species, wild leek (Allium tricoccum), along with nine species that are likely to be designated as threatened or vulnerable, and some rare plant communities, such as white oak–red oak stands.		Shagbark hickory on Île Avelle. Photo: MEF

View of part of Îles-Avelle-Wight-et-Hiam. Photo: Jean Gagnon, MEF		The Îles-Avelle- Wight-et-Hiam Ecological Reserve occupies a total area of 90 hectares, a portion (27.72 ha) of which was acquired under St. Lawrence
Action Plan (Phase I). The other 62.28 hectares were acquired under St. Lawrence Vision 2000 (Phase II), including the entire band of water surrounding the archipelago. The aquatic habitats around the islands provide excellent spawning grounds for fish like yellow perch, largemouth bass and brown bullhead. In addition, the bays contain potentially valuable areas for turtles, while reed-beds provide favourable habitat for muskrats.

This site, which is located in a densely populated region and has long been recognized for its size and ecological value, now enjoys legal protection administered by the provincial government (Quebec Department of the Environment and Wildlife).