Hog Island is a long strip of land that runs across the mouth of Malpeque Bay. Google Maps

The Nature Conservancy of Canada is trying to buy some islands in P.E.I.'s Malpeque Bay.

The biggest target for the conservancy is Hog Island, a long strip of land that protects the mouth of bay. Conservancy board member Doug Deacon told CBC News Friday the islands are a real treasure.

"We see that those are important pieces of land for habitat for a variety of species," said Deacon.

"We do have evidence of piping plover nesting areas."

Deacon said the conservancy has almost sealed the deal on two of the largest properties on Hog Island.

Luke Arbuckle would also like to see the islands protected. He gives kayak tours in Malpeque Bay, and is worried the current owners could build on the land.

"I don't think I ever took anyone out there that wasn't absolutely astounded that there's still a chunk that is completely untouched," said Arbuckle.

"That stuff would take a hit if we had any real development on those islands."

Deacon said it could take at least three years before the Nature Conservancy has full ownership of all the islands.