The Nature Trust of BC revealed this week that it has conserved 5.2 hectares, or 13 acres, of important wildlife and fish habitat along the Kw’a’luxw (Englishman) River in Parksville.
They say this area contains an important salmon spawning river, as well as forested, floodplain, and riparian habitat.
The Nature Trust of BC was able to conserve this area due to British Columbian donors, millions in investments from the Federal Government and the City of Parksville.
According to the Nature Trust of BC, they have successfully conserved 73,000 hectares (180,000 acres) of ecologically significant land since they began their work in 1971.
The conservation organization says they will be working with the Snaw-Naw-As (Nanoose) First Nation on this latest long-term stewardship and management endeavour.
“This is an incredible win, not just for The Nature Trust of BC and our partners, but for conservation in British Columbia,” said Dr. Jasper Lament, CEO, The Nature Trust of BC.
“The Kw’a’luxw (Englishman) River is breathtaking, and a lifeline for wildlife and people. Thanks to the Federal government, the City of Parksville and our donors, we have made another huge step forward in our mission of protecting this magnificent watershed forever. Land conservation is an investment in tomorrow. Every dollar counts.”
The Nature Trust of BC says this acquisition of land is significant because the Kw’a’luxw (Englishman) River provides habitat for all five species of salmon as well as trout species such as rainbow, cutthroat, and steelhead.
Additionally, the area is an internationally significant habitat for migratory and breeding birds and supports over 250 species. It also provides habitat to black bears, cougars, deer, river otters, and Roosevelt Elk.
