Dutton-Dunwich Prairie
Location
- Exit the 401 at interchange 149 (Currie Road, Dutton)
- Go South to the first road – Pioneer Line
- Turn right (go west) on Pioneer Line to Coyne Road
- Turn left (go south) on Coyne Road to the former railroad tracks
- Look for signage on the left along the abandoned right-of-way
The West Elgin Nature Club, in partnership with the Elgin County Stewardship Council, has leased 1 mile on each side of Coyne Rd. (just over 3 km) of the abandoned railroad right-of-way from CSX rail system. This 24-acre property is found in the township of Dutton-Dunwich. The area is rich in provincially rare and endangered prairie plants such as the compass plant, gray-headed coneflower, ohio goldenrod, blazing star and pale purple coneflower. The more abundant grasses found here include such species as big bluestem and Indian grasses. Prescribed burns need to take place here to ensure the longevity of the tallgrass prairie.