New vision and actions to protect, connect and enhance biodiversity in Saanich
June 18, 2024
News release
For immediate release
Saanich, BC – Saanich Council has endorsed the Environmental Policy Framework (EPF) and Biodiversity Conservation Strategy (BCS), creating a more coordinated and comprehensive approach to the projects, programs and policies that will maintain and enhance biodiversity in Saanich.
“I want to thank everyone who participated in the extensive engagement efforts around these vital documents — in particular, the Resilient Saanich Technical Committee who lent their expertise and energy to this important process,” says Councillor Zac de Vries, Council Liaison to the Resilient Saanich Technical Committee. “Their involvement helped staff to prioritize the actions needed over the coming years to preserve and protect the natural areas we all hold dear.”
The EPF outlines eight guiding principles and two goals to assist District staff in aligning environmental policies and programs to support a Sustainable and Resilient Saanich. The BCS features seven theme areas, and more than 130 actions that will be implemented incrementally over the next ten years, with a focus on the stewardship of private and public lands and park management and restoration in the first three years.
The effectiveness of these actions will be monitored and reported back to Council. This is the first Biodiversity Conservation Strategy passed by a local government on Vancouver Island.
Looking ahead
Saanich completed a joint public engagement effort on the draft BCS and the draft updated Urban Forest Strategy (UFS), and the draft updated UFS will be coming to Council for consideration in the coming months.
All three documents will work in tandem to guide enhancement of the District’s biodiversity and urban forest, while recognizing other key Council priorities such as increasing housing opportunities and providing active transportation options.
Learn more
Information about the framework and strategies can be found at saanich.ca/naturestrategies.
-30-
Media contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca