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(airdate Jan. 31) In advance of World Wetlands Day on Sunday, Feb. 2, the Northumberland Land Trust and Ducks Unlimited Canada are celebrating the acquisition of a large wetland in Brighton, Ont. The newly established Biddy Creek Wetland Nature Reserve borders the south side of Highway 401. Over 65 per cent of the 304-acre property is covered by wetlands. It also features mixed woodlands - both of which provide habitat for waterfowl and species at-risk including bats, monarch butterflies and three species of turtle. Given its ecological importance, the area will not be open for recreational activities. The NLT will manage the property and Ducks Unlimited will assist with future restoration work. Private donors and funding from the province and Ottawa supported the land purchase.