Saanich looks to the future, acquires new parkland

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich’s contingent of parks grows a little bigger today with the acquisition of 1.5 hectares of undeveloped private land at 310 Ivor Road in west Saanich.

The property - along with four adjacent undeveloped Saanich lots and rights of ways - will create a natural park of about 2.8 hectares, bringing the total number of parks in Saanich to 171.

 “Saanich is always looking at ways to improve our already impressive system of parks and natural areas for current and future generations to enjoy,” said Susan Brice, councillor and chair of the Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee. “This land is in a wonderful natural state, with very few invasive species and an abundance of wildlife such as owls, amphibians and small mammals.”

Highlights of the new parkland include:

• The parkland features a mature fir forest and rocky Garry oak outcrops, along with a seasonal stream.
• With Goy, Logan and Calvert Parks located nearby, the park will act as a stepping stone or refuge for wildlife in the area, providing connectivity between Francis King Regional Park to Layritz and Quicksbottom Parks.
• The park will form part of future trail connections leading to Camosun College and Vancouver Island Technology Park.

This new addition brings Saanich one step closer to fulfilling its vision of expanding parkland in both rural and urban areas. The park will officially be known as Kardum Park – after the family who previously owned the land.

 

Quick Facts:

• Saanich has over 170 parks, covering more than 820 hectares.
• Saanich parkland represents 8 per cent of the total area of Saanich, or about 100 football fields.
• Saanich parks offer more than 100 kilometres of trails – from short, leisurely strolls to intense uphill climbs

 

Learn More:

To learn more about Saanich’s parks and natural areas, please visit: Saanich.ca.

 

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Media Contact: 
Eva Riccius 
Parks Department
Email: eva.riccius@saanich.ca
Phone: 250-475-5523