(Campbell River, BC) – The χʷɛmaɬkʷu (Homalco First Nation) in collaboration with the Strathcona Regional District (SRD), Greenways Land Trust, and the Nature Trust of BC are inviting community members to volunteer with planting native species in Willow Creek on Tuesday October 27 from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm. The area of focus is a short walk in from Martin Road below the bridge where the wooden fences are located.
As stewards of our lands, χʷɛmaɬkʷu has prioritized stream and wetland restoration on our lands at Campbell River” said χʷɛmaɬkʷu Chief Darren Blaney. “These lands and waters are in the Willow Creek watershed which we share with our neighbours. The name of our project is yiyχmɛštəm qʷaqʷtəm, which means we will take care of the creek.”
“By working together, we hope to help transform this small area into a healthier ecosystem that will benefit future generations” said SRD Chair Mark Baker. “Planting native species has tremendous benefits such as supporting soil microbial systems, local pollinators and wildlife.”
The purchase of the plants and supplies for this project is made possible through B.C. Hydro’s Community ReGreening grant funding stream. While shovels and gardening gloves will be available at the site, volunteers are encouraged to bring their own shovels and gloves if possible.
Anyone who is interested in learning more about this project or wishing to volunteer should contact Greenways Habitat Management Coordinator, Camille Andrews at camille@greenwaystrust.ca or 250-287-3785.
Learn more about yiyχmɛštəm qʷaqʷtəm – Willow Creek Stewardship
Media Contact: Shaun Koopman, SRD Emergency Services Manager 250-830-6702 | preparedness@srd.ca