There are many ways to get involved with a stewardship group in Howe Sound. (Photo: Kris Krug)
What better way to show your love for Howe Sound than by helping keep it healthy and beautiful? Many community groups accept volunteers and interns. Here are some ideas.
- The Squamish River Watershed Society focuses on restoration, education, outreach and community stewardship projects in the Squamish watershed. They work on estuary and eelgrass restoration, salmon recovery, amphibian habitat protection, research and more. Sign up for their newsletters to find out how to get involved.
- The Squamish Streamkeepers Society cares for the habitat alongside local streams so that fish can spawn. They also care for herring-spawning habitat in upper Howe Sound. You can send a message to the society’s facebook page to find out more.
- The Crippen Stewardship Group organizes volunteer Weed Warriors in Crippen Regional Park on Bowen Island to help restore the park’s habitat and remove invasive plants and replant with native species. Volunteers get together on the third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meet at a picnic table in the field near the mouth of Davie’s Creek in Snug Cove. From where the ferry docks, walk south along the boardwalk past the Marina store and Doc Morgan’s restaurant to the field. Contact Moira by email to confirm that the monthly event is taking place.
- Sunshine Coast Friends of Forage Fish collects information about fish spawning on Sunshine Coast beaches. They look for eggs from forage fish (small schooling fish such as herring and sand lance). Forage fish are important in diets of bigger fish like salmon, as well as marine mammals and seabirds. Contact volunteer coordinator Dianne Sanford by email for more information.
- The Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project conserves, restores and enhances wildlife habitat to ensure survival of species at risk. They can help you conduct stewardship activities at home, or you can sign up as a community volunteer.
- The Sunshine Coast Conservation Association does education and outreach, representing conservation and community groups on the coast. Their focus is on protecting the biodiversity and integrity of our air, water, forests and marine environments. The group offers a variety of volunteer opportunities.
- WildSafeBC reduces human-wildlife conflict through education, innovation and cooperation. Learn what to do if you encounter wildlife while at home, work or play. For more information, contact their provincial coordinator at 250-828-2551 or by email.
When attending activities, remember to dress for the weather, bring water to drink and a snack, as well as your energy and enthusiasm!
Are you involved with a stewardship group in Howe Sound that isn’t listed above? Tell us so we can post the information.
