Saanich fosters backyard biodiversity on private land

November 26, 2024

News release 
For immediate release

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich and Habitat Acquisition Trust (HAT) are excited to launch a collaborative pilot project that will provide residents in a specific geographic area with support to enhance backyard stewardship and boost local biodiversity. 

The Good Neighbours: Saanich Biodiversity Partners pilot project supports Saanich’s Biodiversity Conservation Strategy goal of promoting and expanding programs that encourage biodiversity stewardship on private lands.

Approximately 200 properties are within the project’s focus area and include properties in the areas surrounding Marigold Park, Knockan Hill Park, South Valley Park, Dunbar Park, Copley West and East Parks, and the south end of Quick’s Bottom Park. This focus area was chosen since it is part of the Biodiversity Habitat Network identified in the Biodiversity Conservation Strategy. Residents within this focus area received an invitation in early October to find out about the project via a flyer in the mail.

“This partnership marks the beginning of an exciting opportunity to enhance biodiversity on private lands and to help residents become engaged and informed land stewards,” said Councillor Judy Brownoff. “It takes a team effort to ensure our natural areas are supported and I’m grateful for the interest and response from our community.”

An online resident survey was the first engagement step and based on responses, support for eligible residents may include:

  • Individualized on-site stewardship consultations
  • Site reports with goals, recommended actions, and resources
  • Hands-on training in effective stewardship techniques
  • Experiential stewardship workshops and walks

The pilot project is funded by a grant from the Fraser Basin Council and is undertaken with the financial support of the Government of Canada through the federal Department of Environment and Climate Change. The pilot project will run until March 31, 2025.

To view the pilot project’s focus areas, view the map or the attached image. Find out more about Saanich’s Biodiversity Conservation Strategy or read more about the pilot project.

-30-

Media contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca  

Area of Saanich in the pilot project showing locations of invited property owners.Figure 1: Area of Saanich in the pilot project showing locations of invited property owners.