One hectare of land on Viking Way adjacent to the French Creek Estuary Nature Preserve was partially logged and cleared by a developer within 4.87 metres of a Great Blue Heron colony, exposing the nest trees to peril. Against all odds herons returned, emphasizing that this breeding site is critical. Out of 14 nest sites identified from Nanoose Bay to Deep Bay, only the Viking Way and Deep Bay sites are active.

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French Creek Estuary Nature Preserve 

 

The Viking Way 1 ha borders the Nature Preserve and is part of its ecosystem. Its protection is urgent as without immediate action, the risk of development may harm its biodiversity.

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The Nature Preserve is located between Parksville and Qualicum Beach on the east coast of Vancouver Island and lies within the traditional territory of the Snaw-Naw-As, Qualicum, K'ómoks, and Snuneymuxw First Nations. Protecting and restoring its natural habitat is essential to retain and enhance the unique biodiversity of this area and ensure its long-term resilience.

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The 9.22-hectare Nature Preserve was conserved in 2022 when the BC Parks Foundation led a crowdfunding campaign, and community donors from across BC and beyond generously donated to save it. It's designated as one of Canada's Protected Areas in recognition of its wildlife, their habitat, and for its biodiversity. Eastern Vancouver Island supports the greatest biological diversity in B.C. and is critically important for BC's, Canada's, and global biodiversity. (Nature Conservancy of Canada)

 

Pond and Wetlands ​

 

An approximate 8,000 square metre pond lies within the Preserve and provides important habitat for wildlife and plants, some of which are rare or endangered species.​ It's a critical source of water for species during these times of increasing heat and drought.

 

There are 10 wetlands in the Preserve which are classified as red-listed ecosystems at risk of becoming endangered or threatened (BC Conservation Data Centre, 2024). 

 

The 1 ha was partially logged and cleared by the developer within 10 m of the Preserve's pond and wetlands, exposing them to harms from siltation and risks of small wildlife migrating from their pond and wetland habitats.

 

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