The Bilston Conservation Corridor

In May 2024, the Metchosin Foundation, in collaboration with BC Parks Foundation, announced the creation of a nature reserve in the heart of Southern Vancouver Island’s Bilston Creek watershed. This protected land includes dry Coastal Douglas-fir forest and associated ecosystems.
 
BC’s dry Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystem is highly endangered due to ongoing development and urbanization. The newly protected land is habitat for keystone mammal species like bears, cougars and wolves as well as species at risk, such as sharp-tailed snakes. The property includes wetlands, mature forest and upland manzanita scrub.
 
Work continues to fundraise and secure additional parcels of land for the Bilston Conservation Corridor via conservation covenants. The below video explains this project in detail. Please contact the Metchosin Foundation to find out how you can help.

The SC’IȺNEW Mary Hill Project

Through the leadership of the SC’IȺNEW Nation, and in collaboration with Habitat Acquisition Trust, we aim to establish a 340 acre Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (IPCA) at Mary Hill in Metchosin. There are few locations that equal Mary Hill in biodiversity, cultural significance and natural beauty. The Metchosin Foundation provided essential support in fundraising, coordination, and communications, which fostered momentum for this SC’IȺNEW-led initiative. Next steps could include a formal community land use decision in 2024 and a multi-million-dollar fund-raising effort led by Habitat Acquisition Trust.

The Metchosin Flying Insect Biomass Study

Insects are essential in providing food for birds, mammals, and reptiles, pollinating native plants and human agriculture, and breaking down organic matter. The Metchosin Flying Insect Biomass Study has been measuring trends in insect biomass in Metchosin through the efforts of local volunteers. Led by Dr. Neville Winchester at the University of Victoria and supported through the Metchosin Foundation, this is the largest such study in North America and has completed its sixth field season.
 
The Metchosin community have been working with scientists to create and manage structures to collect the insects and make records for analysis.

The SC’IȺNEW Marine Education Pilot Project

Young people from the SC’IȺNEW Nation worked with elders and marine experts to develop leadership for their community. Through days of experiential activities, the youth were immersed in learning land stewardship, ocean resources and conservation, marine technology, and cultural connections to their natural worlds. The project received enthusiastic response from all, and Metchosin Foundation was proud to contribute to this needed initiative.

Scholarships for Environmental Stewardship

The Foundation provides competitive scholarships to Metchosin students taking post-secondary studies. The scholarships, each for $1000, are awarded to graduating grade 12 students who demonstrate leadership and/or academic achievement in environmental stewardship or community citizenship. The Metchosin Foundation is strongly committed to supporting a new generation who will care about the wellbeing of people and ecosystems in which they live. Click here to see more.

Moralea's Meadow

This Garry Oak Meadow on the Metchosin Municipal grounds is being restored and replanted with native species in memory of Moralea Milne. Moralea was an ardent advocate for the environment and long term Metchosin District Councillor. Her sudden death shocked the community, and now volunteers and donors work to complete this beautiful meadow. Metchosin Foundation has supported this worthy project since its inception. Visit their website to learn more.