About a million dollars is still needed to secure 100 acres of waterfront property known as Prideaux Haven in Desolation Sound so it can become a park.
“This is one of those places people assume must already be protected,” says Andy Day, CEO of BC Parks Foundation. “But it’s not. Desolation Sound is loved by British Columbians and attracts people from all over the world, so it’s important that we take this chance to add this private land to it.”
The property includes almost a kilometre of shoreline and border Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park and the East Redonda Island Ecological Reserve.
A news release from BC Parks Foundation says every dollar donated until Sept. 29 will be matched and go directly toward the purchase and permanent protection of the property. It notes Wilson 5 Foundation has committed to matching funds.
Jim Phillips leads BC Marine Parks Forever Society, a group of boaters who have a sizeable contribution and are enthusiastic about the purchase.
“Desolation Sound is a mecca, and gets packed in the summer,” says Phillips, who points out that marine parks are loved by British Columbians and contribute to B.C.’s economy. “It’s just such a world-class place, reflecting B.C.’s natural beauty. We need to jump on these chances, just like the people before us who have created the parks we all now enjoy.”
The news release notes protecting the property will strengthen a network of conservation lands, safeguard old-growth nesting habitat for the threatened marbled murrelet and preserve eelgrass meadows that shelter young fish and store blue carbon.
“Prideaux Haven, in the Traditional Territory of the Tla’amin and Klahoose, is a sanctuary for paddlers and boaters alike,” says Karina Younk, Chair of BC Marine Trails. “Its protection ensures future generations can experience the wonder of these waters, while safeguarding vital ecosystems. It’s a win-win.”
BC Parks Foundation says the Tla’amin Nation supports the campaign and once the purchase is made the land will be permanently owned by BC Parks Foundation.
If the funding goal is exceeded, additional funds will support long-term stewardship.
“Protecting places like this one in Prideaux Haven goes to the heart of who we are as British Columbians,” says Day. “We come together in these awesome spaces to enjoy time with each other on the water, paddling and boating and witnessing beauty. By acting now, you ensure that this important part of our coastal heritage will be here for people and for nature forever.”
