The Morrison Creek Headwaters will be protected after the community, organizations and individuals came together to raise the necessary funds.
The Comox Valley Land Trust was involved in the local efforts, and getting larger organizations involved.
“This protection not only preserves a precious habitat but also highlights the immense power we possess when we work together towards a common goal, reminding us that we can make a difference and create a lasting legacy,” says Tim Ennis, executive director of the Comox Valley Land Trust (CVLT).
CVLT was able to get investment from Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Sitka Foundation, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, the Pacific Salmon Foundation, the Courtenay Fish and Game Protective Association and BC Hydro’s Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program.
Additionally, the BC Parks Foundation partnered with CVLT for the 25×25 campaign, which aims to protect 25 “valuable places” by 2025.
The foundation made a significant donation, then helped crowdfund the remaining amount needed to protect the park.
“This is a fantastic, special place and all kinds of people, clubs, schools, and businesses made a difference in protecting it,” says Andy Day, CEO of the BC Parks Foundation. “The positive crowdfunding energy felt like salmon determined to reach that freshwater spring. And they made it!”
In total, CVLT raised over $500,000 from the local community.
The Morrison Creek ecosystem is fed by a dozen or more cool water springs, making it resilient to climate change, according to a news release from the BC Parks Foundation.
The headwaters are in the traditional territory of the K’ómoks First Nation, who also supported the protection according to the news release. The area is referred to as “qax mot” or “lots of medicine” by the nation for the abundance and diversity of medicinal plants.0
A map showing the location of the Morrison Creek Headwaters. (BC Parks Foundation handout image)
Laura Brougham
