LINC is excited to share with you the newest conservation project on Xwe’etay/Lasqueti Island, the acquisition and protection of Marine Island by the BC Parks Foundation. LINC is grateful to the BC Parks Foundation for helping secure Xwe’etay/Lasqueti Island’s natural heritage.
Marine Island is just offshore from Xwe’etay/Lasqueti Island, near Sabine Channel Marine Park, Jedediah Island Marine Park, and Squitty Bay Provincial Park, Marine Island is a gem.
“There’s so many things about this island that make it distinct,” says Dr. Ken Lertzman, Professor Emeritus, School of Resource Management, Simon Fraser University. “Normally in this area, you have either old growth or a younger forest that has come back after logging. But the forest on Marine Island is intermediate between those two. There is little evidence to suggest it’s been logged, but it hasn’t yet developed true old growth character. It has beautiful mature Douglas-fir and Western Redcedar that is well on its way to becoming old growth.”
The shoreline geology is also unique, with beautiful complex rock formations. The south and western sides of the island are surrounded by extensive mud flats and sensitive eelgrass beds – home to diverse intertidal species.
“Initial archaeological observations have found evidence of a midden with a house platform,” says Dr. Lertzman. “Analyses are being conducted to determine its age.”
“This island is so unique,” says Gordon Scott, director of LINC. “It’s important people know it’s rare and protected.”
Despite the fact the property has had several private owners over the last half century, including the American singer Boz Scaggs, who owned the property in the 1970’s, it remains a safe haven for potential species at risk, including two bat species, the Marbled Murrelet and the Sharp-tailed snake.
The BC Parks Foundation is currently developing a long-term management plan for the island and will be talking to LINC, First Nations, neighbours, and others. The island is private and closed to public visitation until a formal plan is in place. You may see LINC members conducting surveys and other stewardship activities there. If you would like to join us, send us an email.
To learn more about The BC Parks Foundation and the latest Marine Island acquisition, visit their website here.