Documentary Release – Kw’as Park Beaver Coexistence

(Campbell River, BC) – The Strathcona Regional District (SRD) is pleased to announce the release of a new documentary highlighting the Kw’as Park Beaver Coexistence project.

The documentary was created by Wild Bus Films and can be viewed on SRD’s website at srd.ca/projects/kwas-park-flood-mitigation.

This project was made possible through a $354,960.60 Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Adaptation grant from the Province.

The Beaver Coexistence project involved installing pond levellers and a culvert protection fence to mitigate flooding, reduce risks, and restore wetlands. These non-lethal techniques support natural processes while helping protect surrounding infrastructure and communities.

“Projects like this demonstrate how working with nature can reduce flood risks for our communities,” said SRD Chair Mark Baker. “This work supports the Board’s climate resiliency priorities by helping communities adapt to climate change while protecting important wetland habitats.”

Beaver dams act as natural sponges, storing runoff and releasing it slowly to reduce flooding and erosion. They also support downstream spawning areas, helping sustain salmon and trout populations. In addition, beaver ponds store carbon, replenish water tables during droughts, and contribute to more fire-resistant landscapes.

“The Klahoose view the beaver as a vital animal, often considered a spiritual engineer and a silent partner in creation,” said Klahoose First Nation Elder, Jessie Louie. “They show us how to live in balance.”

View the Kw’as Park Beaver Coexistence documentary and learn more about the project at srd.ca/projects/kwas-park-flood-mitigation.
Kw’as Park is located on Kw’as Bay Rd, Cortes Island (Electoral Area B).

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Media Contact: Shaun Koopman, SRD Emergency Services Manager 250-830-6702 | skoopman@srd.ca