Mer Bleue Conservation Area

Mer Bleue is a sphagnum bog which occupies 3,343 ha east of Ottawa in eastern Ontario.

The bog is situated in an ancient channel of the Ottawa River. Sandhill cranes regularly nest in this area. This wetland also provides habitat for beaver, muskrat, waterfowl and the rare Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata). A boardwalk allows visitors to explore a section of the bog. There are hiking trails which follow raised areas along the edges of the bog and cross-country skiing trails for use in winter. The conservation area is managed by the National Capital Commission.

The value of this unique wetland was not always recognized. During World War II, the Royal Canadian Air Force used this area for bombing practice. Now, this area has been designated as a Wetland of International Significance under the Ramsar Convention.

The name "Mer Bleue", or "blue sea" in French, is thought to describe the bog's appearance when it is covered in fog.