Island 296 is a small island that provides natural habitat for the waterfowl and other wildlife in Benson Lake. This island was owned by the Township of Rideau Lakes and has been declared surplus to their needs. The Township officials recognized the ecological value of this island and with much foresight agreed to donate it to the Trust.

In addition to the waterfowl that nest on its shores and the fish habitat provided by the shallow waters that surround the island, the island is home to a resident beaver family. As with many ecological properties in the shallow bays along the Rideau, users of the Waterway are welcome to view the wildlife but the Trust will leave the area in its natural state for the benefit of its current residents.