News release

For immediate release

Saanich supports UN’s Decade on Ecosystem Restoration

Saanich, BC – Mayor Fred Haynes has signed a Proclamation demonstrating Saanich’s support and participation in the United Nations (UN) Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021 to 2030.  

“We are thrilled to participate in this global initiative that will increase public literacy on the importance of environmental stewardship,” said Mayor Fred Haynes. “The coming decade will build on our momentum, in partnership with the community, to help heal natural areas and enhance biodiversity. Every action, big or small, will also help us mitigate the effects of climate change.”

For the first year, Saanich Parks will build awareness and connect with residents about what ecosystem restoration is and how they can get involved in park stewardship. Saanich Parks already has a strong Pulling Together Volunteer Program that focuses on ecosystem restoration, but is currently operating in a limited way with COVID-19 protocols. When provincial health orders allow, community events will resume to further engage residents to learn, participate in and celebrate stewardship in Saanich Parks. 

There will be great opportunities in the years ahead for Saanich residents to learn about and care for parks. The broad goal is to work together with community members to continue to restore and sustain natural park environments for future generations. This will include activities to learn about and connect with local ecosystems to the hands-on work of restoring degraded ecosystems in Saanich Parks. Saanich Parks hopes that many residents will be engaged in these fun, healthy activities that positively contribute to the community and the environment.

The UN Decade provides a good opportunity to demonstrate and highlight Saanich’s commitment to environmental stewardship as recognized in Saanich’s Official Community Plan; Climate Plan; Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan; and the Older Adults Strategy.   

“Saanich Parks is a leader in community stewardship and invasive species management which are both important aspects of ecosystem restoration,” said Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee Chair and Councillor Judy Brownoff. “We have strong existing partnerships with community groups such as Peninsula Streams, and many ‘friends of parks’ groups. We are committed to restoring natural areas and biodiversity within our parks to benefit the long term health of our community.”

More information on related events and initiatives will be shared as it becomes available at Saanich.ca.

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Media contact:
Nathalie Dechaine
Manager Community Development and Business Systems
nathalie.dechaine@saanich.ca
250-475-5522