Comox Valley Nature

Saturday April 21^st, Helliwell Park, Hornby Island, meet at the Ferry lot

Today’s walk is on Hornby Island, two short BC ferry rides away. If you have never been to Hornby or Helliwell Park, now is your chance. The park is large (almost 3,000 hectares) and contains old growth Douglas fir and a Garry Oak meadow. Steep shore cliffs fall down to the ocean, so although sea-side, do not expect to dip your toes in the Salish Sea.

The eco-system on the bluffs at the south end are near desert, an unexpected occurrence. April and May are the best time to see the flowers, and we should be right on time for that.
Please notice the early meeting time. We will gather at the parking lot across from the ferry terminal at Buckley Bay for carpooling over the two ferries involved. If you are car pooling, remember to help out the driver for the ferry cost. There are facilities at the park, and food is available in “downtown” Hornby, but bring a snack and water as well. We have taken time to visit the Hornby Nature House in the past, but that has to be arranged beforehand.  Typically we leave Hornby Island on the 2 PM ferry. You may want to stay a little longer on Hornby or Denman Island so ask if your driver is staying longer before getting in their car for the first ferry.

http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/helliwell/

Saturday April 14, Campbell River Estuary

The Campbell River Estuary is known world-wide for its  Tyee Pool, where monster salmon have been caught, but  there is more than that. Like most of the estuaries near industrial sites, it suffered from contamination from industrial waste and destruction of the riparian boarders. Previously home to three sawmills, complete with land sorts and log haul-outs, the place was trashed and dead.  Campbell River adopted the  Estuary Management Plan was adopted in 1996, and extensive restoration has occurred. Today’s walk will be led by Loys, and may include a stop for lunch after the walk. Bring water and wear suitable boots, and dress for the weather.

Details on the Restoration plan are available from the Campbell River City website:

http://www.campbellriver.ca/your-city-hall/green-city/environmental-protection/campbell-river-estuary

A 3 minute video by the Vancouver Aquarium featuring Tim Ennis, is here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PrRdkVb44c&feature=youtu.be&a

Saturday, April 7^th South Side, Puntledge River from Comox Dam

Today’s walk explores the south side of the Puntledge River downstream for about 2 km. This side of the river is much less visited then the north side, which BC Hydro has developed for hikers, bikers and picnic users. The walk is an easy downhill stroll on the way out following the turns in the river on well-maintained paths and trails.

A wide range of birds visit the forest, and many shade loving plants line the trails.

http://comoxvalleynaturalist.bc.ca/nature-viewing-guide/6-comox-lakepuntledge-river-area/upper-puntledge-river/

Saturday March 31st, Cumberland Marsh;  Jumbo’s Cabin

Loys will be leading a Public walk through the Cumberland Marsh today. The Marsh drains into Perseverance (aka Coal) Creek, and is home to a number of interesting plant species as well as being a favorite spot for water fowl. The level walk goes from Jumbo’s cabin across low coal hills and ends at the Number 1 Japanese Town Site near the Saito House. This is one of our most popular walks, and is an easy stroll.

For more details, check out  this link to our website:

http://comoxvalleynaturalist.bc.ca/nature-viewing-guide/7-cumberland-area/cumberland-marsh/