A pilot project is being launched by the District of Saanich in collaboration with a local environmental group, Habitat Acquisition Trust (HAT), to foster backyard stewardship of increased biodiversity.
This project has been dubbed ‘The Good Neighbours: Saanich Biodiversity Partners’ and The District says it aligns perfectly with their current goals of encouraging residents to take stewardship of native plants and biodiversity into their own hands.
“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.”
There are around 200 properties in the scope of this project, many of which are in the areas surrounding Marigold Park, Knockan Hill Park, South Valley Park, Dunbar Park, Copley West and East Parks as well as the south end of Quick’s Bottom Park.
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According to the District, this focus area was chosen through the Biodiversity Habitat Network identified in their official Biodiversity Conservation Strategy.
An invitation was sent to residents in this focus area back in early October, which shared information about the pilot project.
An online survey was filled out by many of the residents within the focus area, and based on their responses, supports for those hoping to take part in the project may include:
- Individual, on-site stewardship consultations
- Site reports with goals, recommended actions and available resources
- Training sessions in effective stewardship techniques
- Stewardship workshops and walks in the area
Funding for this project is being made available through grant funding as well as support from the Government of Canada’s Department of Environment and Climate Change.
Saanich residents hoping to take part in this project or learn more about it can visit HAT’s Good Neighbours webpage.
The District’s pilot project in collaboration with HAT will run until March 31st, 2025.
