CVN celebrates 60 years of stewardship and community

CVN is deeply grateful to member Kathy Haigh who organized and managed the anniversary celebration described here. This post is based on a press release that Kathy wrote, with photos by Bruce Moffat.

Comox Valley Nature marked a major milestone this spring—our 60th anniversary. Founded in 1966, CVN is one of the North Island’s oldest and most active nature organizations, dedicated to fostering environmental education, stewardship, and appreciation for the natural world.

To commemorate six decades of community engagement and ecological leadership, the society hosted a 60th Anniversary Celebration on April 26.  The event brought together members, volunteers, and guests to reflect on CVN’s long legacy of protecting and learning from the region’s forests, wetlands, and shorelines.

Anniversary cupcakes

Over the years, Comox Valley Nature has championed numerous restoration and education initiatives. These include programs such as Garry oak and wetland restoration, Courtenay Airpark Walk restoration, birding, botany and shoreline groups, an annual bursary for high school graduates, and ongoing community partnerships to maintain sustainable access to local trails and habitats.

In 2026, we are also incorporating our anniversary theme throughout our public walks. To check the various upcoming nature walks, visit our Events web page.

As we look ahead to our next chapter, we remain rooted in our founding mission—to know nature and keep it worth knowing. Through guided walks, lectures, interest groups and conservation projects, Comox Valley Nature continues to inspire stewardship and connection with the rich ecosystems of Vancouver Island’s Comox Valley.


Here’s a selection of photos from the event [click a photo to enlarge it].

Welcome by K’ómoks First Nation elder Tami Compton
Emcee Kathy Haigh speaking
Frank Hovenden reminiscing
Members chatting in front of the timeline display
Door prizes
Beautiful (and healthy) refreshments

CVN’s long history was represented in a graphic timeline display. You can read the entries in the images below the full timeline by zooming in on each one.

60 years of activity
Timeline 1966 to 1986
Timeline 1986 to 2006
Timeline 2006 to 2026

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