Jump to content

Leslie Campbell

Administrators
  • Posts

    582
  • Joined

  • Last visited

 Content Type 

Focus Magazine Nov/Dec 2016

Sept/Oct 2016.2

Past Editions in PDF format

Advertorials

Focus Magazine July/August 2016

Focus Magazine Jan/Feb 2017

Focus Magazine March/April 2017

Passages

Local Lens

Focus Magazine May/June 2017

Focus Magazine July/August2017

Focus Magazine Sept/Oct 2017

Focus Magazine Nov/Dec 2017

Focus Magazine Jan/Feb 2018

Focus Magazine March/April 2018

Focus Magazine May/June 2018

Focus Magazine July/August 2018

Focus Magazine Sept/Oct 2018

Focus Magazine Nov/Dec 2018

Focus Magazine Jan/Feb 2019

Focus Magazine March/April 2019

Focus Magazine May/June 2019

Focus Magazine July/August 2019

Focus Magazine Sept/Oct 2019

Focus Magazine Nov/Dec 2019

Focus Magazine Jan/Feb 2020

Focus Magazine March-April 2020

COVID-19 Pandemic

Navigating through pandemonium

Informed Comment

Palette

Earthrise

Investigations

Reporting

Analysis

Commentary

Letters

Development and architecture

Books

Forests

Controversial developments

Gallery

Store

Forums

Downloads

Blogs

Events

Everything posted by Leslie Campbell

  1. The public hearing for the Fairway development is on March 15, 2021 at 5:30pm.
  2. Thanks Frank. We've changed that to "few" rules, which are described, to some degree, earlier in the article: "Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland have a bag limit of three wolves for anyone holding a basic hunting license, but in some other areas of the province there is no bag limit, no closed season, and no requirement to report wolf kills. British Columbians do not require a tag or special license to kill a wolf and non-residents pay a fee of $50." —Editor
  3. until
    Pathways Chapel Gallery is pleased to introduce you to six British Columbian visual artists from the IMAGINE ARTWORKS collective: ANNE BOWEN, SUSAN GEDDES, BARB MACLEOD, MAUREEN NESS, KATHI THOMPSON and SHARON WAREING. The artists come together to explore a common theme, interpreting the many Pathways taken individually. It is a celebration of the challenging, the joyful, the forks in the road. Pathways includes their range of approaches: from exuberant abstracts to narrative landscapes; detailed realism and contemporary impressionism. The work resonates with gestural mark- making, luxuriant colour and expansive light. The artists that make up Imagine Artworks are distinctly different from each other. The difference lies both within the material substance and personal directions they use. What defines their convergence is a desire to investigate ideas and visual conversations. Exhibition Details The exhibition runs from March 5 – 21, 2021. Fridays & Saturdays from 12 – 4pm and Sundays from 12 – 3pm Chapel Gallery is located at 600 Richmond Avenue, Victoria, BC Email chapelgallery@stmatthiasvictoria.ca (Covid SAFETY PROTOCOLS WITH MASKS)
  4. Though first reading on the Fairway proposal was supposed to take place at the January 18 Langford council meeting, an error in the agenda—listing it by the wrong bylaw number and address—caused it to be delayed at the last minute till February 16 at 5:30 pm.
  5. TLC just announced the organization was successful in raising more than $600,000 and therefore able to protect the 11.1 hectares (27 acres) of Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystem in the District of Highlands. The most at-risk biogeoclimatic zone in the province, the CDF zone has been most affected by human activities. To learn more about this project please visit http://conservancy.bc.ca/2021/01/news-release-millstream-creek-watershed-property-protected/ to see video and images from the site.
  6. until
    SPARK FESTIVAL 2021 Join us next week for four evenings of new theatre and film. Here's our lineup for next week's 2021 Spark Festival. All of the events (excluding Uncovered: Notes from the Heart) are free. HIV in My Day >> Trajectory of Desire >> SHIP >> Summer Bucket List >> the soft spaces >> Uncovered >> LIVE-STREAM MUSICAL - IN SUPPORT OF THE BELFRY Uncovered: Notes from the Heart Wednesday, January 20 at 7:30 pm (PST) Music has an undeniable way of uniting communities, forging change, and lifting hearts and minds when we need it most. Join us next week for an evening of spectacular songs and unforgettable performances from Toronto's Musical Stage Company. Spotlighting iconic songs with wildly imaginative arrangements by music director Reza Jacobs, Uncovered: Notes from the Heart features iconic songs of hope by Bob Dylan, Carole King, Bob Marley, Elton John, and more, reimagined and performed by today’s leading Canadian artists for an ‘unmissable’ viewing experience. (65 minutes in length). Starring Divine Brown, Dillan Chiblow, Bruce Dow, Sara Farb, Eva Foote, Hailey Gillis, Raha Javanfar, Germaine Konji, Stewart Adam Mckensy, Andrew Penner, Kale Penny & Jackie Richardson (Belfry’s Big Mama! The Willie Mae Thornton Story). The Orchestra features Reza Jacobs (Piano/Conductor), Justin Gray (Bass/Guitar), and Jamie Drake (Drums/Percussion). Uncovered: Notes from the Heart is the first event in our 2021 Spark Festival. Livestream tickets are $25. Book Now >>
  7. until
    Backroads and Beyond By Michelle Austen February 18 - March 17 Winchester Galleries is pleased to announce the upcoming exhibition Backroads and Beyond, artworks by Michelle Austen. This exhibition is a curated collection of Plein-air paintings of travel experiences along the backroads of British Columbia and Alberta. http://i2.cmail20.com/ei/j/DA/EED/0E4/101609/csfinal/AUSTEN-Carrymeaway48x60Oiloncanvas4200CanmoreAB-990a28079e05143c.png Michelle Austen - Carry me away, Oil on canvas, 48 x 60 inches Michelle Austen paints and teaches art in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. She found a love of art at an early age, which she credits to an amazing art teacher that sparked her interest in drawing and painting. It was a love that never ended. Michelle is a full-time artist and teacher. Her experience comes from over 20 years of mentorship from her art teacher Betty MacDonald and continuous art education. She participates in workshops and courses locally and overseas with many professional artists. Michelle loves to share her knowledge with her students. Guiding them to build confidence in their creative pursuits and ultimately follow their dreams. For Michelle, a successful piece is one where energy and life flow; it’s experienced between a 2-dimensional surface and her, and is then spread further to be felt by the viewer. “Each painting begins with a vision, as it unfolds it reminds me of the constant ebb and flow of life. Teaching me patience, acceptance, and courage to keep exploring.” Winchester Galleries Ltd.2260 Oak Bay AvenueVictoria, British ColumbiaV8R 1G7250-595-2777www.winchestergalleriesltd.com
  8. until
    Promise to Place Building Relationship with the Land Toni Onley & David Ellingsen January 26 - February 17 Winchester Galleries is pleased to announce the upcoming exhibition Promise to Place; Building Relationship with the Land, artworks by Toni Onley & David Ellingsen. This exhibition is a selected collection of photographs by David Ellingsen exploring issues of climate, deforestation and biodiversity loss, and West Coast landscape and seascape watercolours by Toni Onley. http://i1.cmail20.com/ei/j/DA/EED/0E4/101609/csfinal/UnknownEntities-40x50-9900000000079e3c.jpg David Ellingsen - Unravelling Red in Veiled Blue, No. 1 (Fishing Buoy), Pigment ink on cotton rag, 40 x 50 inches, Edition of 5 Unknown Entities "On any given day, millions upon millions of plastic objects slowly dissolve into the Earth’s soil, air and water. Working their way into the nutrients ingested by the creatures of the planet, plastic's microscopic compounds are now found deep within the very flesh of animal and human. For this on-going project, Unknown Entities, I explore and offer a visual interpretation of the deepening plastics crisis. I focused my camera on found objects that have begun their dissolution, or inevitably will with time. The shifting materials caught in the endless fences of Canada’s prairies - the inspiration for further investigation - and a variety of objects gleaned from my own refuse, that of neighbours and friends, and other materials found or still in use but whose particles are destined to become embedded in the biosphere. These items include styrofoam, a fishing buoy, a hula hoop, drink boxes, and a Glo-in-the-dark dog toy. Using fine wire rigging and long exposures of seconds and minutes in combination with the currents of wind and water, these photographs reflect a reality of plastic, one of the most ubiquitous substances on the planet, as an unknown entity literally diffusing, dissolving and evolving into the fabric of life itself. While common sense might suggest some disturbing conclusions, scientific studies are only just beginning on the long-term effects of these compounds." - D.E. Winchester Galleries Ltd.2260 Oak Bay AvenueVictoria, British ColumbiaV8R 1G7250-595-2777www.winchestergalleriesltd.com
  9. until
    Shelter January 9 - 23, 2021 Madrona Gallery is pleased to announce its first exhibition of 2021. Opening January 9th, “Shelter” is a group exhibition of specially selected works that explore the idea of home through object, location, colour, and form. This exhibition aims to offer unique viewpoints of home from gallery artists, encouraging viewers to reflect and rethink their own environments. This exhibition features work from the gallery's stable of artists, including Megan Dietrich, Brad Pasutti, Corrinne Wolcoski, Rick Bond, Meghan Hildebrand, and many others. For further details on the exhibition and opening, please contact the gallery or visit www.madronagallery.com Images: Megan Dietrich, "Don't Dismiss", 30 x 30, Mixed Media on Canvas and Jeremy Herndl, "Night Apples", 60 x 48, Oil on Canvas
  10. until
    Natalie Shumka & Selina Jorgensen “Oil & Water” Opening Friday 10th Jan from 7-9pm Artist Talk: Sunday 12th Jan at 1pm Xchanges Artists' Gallery and Studios 2333 Government Street, Suite 6E https://xchangesgallery.org Oil & Water is a collaborative exhibition exploring coastal connections and featuring the recent work of Victoria-based artists Natalie Shumka and Selina Jorgensen. Working primarily in oils, Shumka’s traditional style of realism captures the beauty in everyday objects. Current studies involve glass objects surrounded by driftwood, seashells and feathers. Inspired by themes of collection, bio-diversity and personal symbolism, Jorgensen creates illustrative imagery of waves and found objects from nature using water-based paints. Artists' Bios Selina Jorgensen is a Canadian artist living in Victoria, B.C. Inspired by her coastal surroundings, her imagery explores and celebrates an interconnection with nature through themes of collection, bio-diversity and personal symbolism. She is a graduate of the University of Victoria (BFA, 2003) and Victoria College of Art (2000). Visit the artist's website. Natalie Shumka is a full-time artist living in Victoria, BC. Working primarily in oils, Shumka’s traditional style of realism captures the beauty in everyday objects. Transparency and contrast are themes which run throughout her work. Current studies involve glass objects surrounded by driftwood, seashells and feathers. She is a graduate of the Victoria College of Art (1999) and her work has been included in many Canadian group and juried exhibitions. Visit the artist's website. Exhibition continues through January 26 Saturdays and Sundays, 11am-4pm
  11. until
    Dance Days 2021 - It'll Continue to Move You Even During the COVID-19 Pandemic From January 15 to January 25, 2021 Now in its 12th year, Dance Days – an annual city-wide festival in Victoria that celebrates all styles of dance and fosters an appreciation and love of dance in our community – is from January 15 to January 25, 2021. With COVID-19 restrictions in flux over the past two months, Dance Victoria has reimagined how Dance Days 2021 can continue in our community, remain safe, and follow COVID-19 safety protocols. Ten short (two-minute) dance films commissioned by Dance Victoria will be featured on the Dance Days web page on DanceVictoria.com - one film featured on each day of the festival. The films are created by the 10 finalists of the Dance Days Let It Move You Dance Video Contest and is a collaboration with the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria and supported by the City of Victoria. Each participant was awarded a $500 commission for their video proposal and final video submission. The films begin with an artist’s statement prepared by the choreographers to give context to their works. There is a broad range of dance styles, ethnicities, dance experience, and themes presented in the 10 films, which was exactly the intent of the contest. At the end of the 10 days, the community will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite dance film on DanceVictoria.com. Also during Dance Days, Victoria and Vancouver-based dance instructors will livestream dance classes in a range of styles for free. You can expect ballroom dance, voguing, ballet and more! Visit the Dance Days calendar on DanceVictoria.com in early January for details. Dance Victoria will also share on social media links to dance presentations by international dance companies available for free from January 15 to January 25, 2021. About Dance VictoriaDance Victoria brings the World’s Best Dance to your home for our Virtual 20/21 Home Season and supports the development of new dance for the international stage from its studios in Quadra Village. Dance Victoria is a non-profit charitable society. DanceVictoria.com
  12. Suddenly Dance Theatre presents LUCKY MAYBE A Preview of the Work-in-Progress with Director David Ferguson (Canada); Choreographer Hoyeon Kim (Korea); in discussion with Dr. Jennifer Wise SPECIAL ONLINE EVENT on January 15, 2021 @ 6pm hosted by Dance Victoria as a part of DANCE DAYS In December 2020, despite the Covid-19 pandemic, Suddenly Dance Theatre’s Artistic co-Director David Ferguson captured a new dance-film called LUCKY MAYBE. With his cast and crew in South Korea, the director worked remotely via the internet from Victoria, BC, Canada to create the work. In this hour-long Zoom gathering hosted by Dance Victoria, playwright, translator, and theatre historian Dr. Jennifer Wise will talk with the Director David Ferguson and Choreographer Hoyeon Kim. Audiences will see the very first look at this work-in-progress, ask questions, and learn about how artists are adapting to change. Audiences are invited register here: https://dancevictoria.com/registration-form-dd2021-lucky-maybe/ To learn more about LUCKY MAYBE, visit https://www.suddenlydance.ca/lucky-maybe
  13. The CRD has extended the public consultation period on its draft Solid Waste Management Plan to February 15, 2021. The Mount Work Coalition, with other community groups, requested the extension so that more people could review and comment on the plan.
  14. On Thursday, December 17, 2020, DFO renewed the licences of 19 Discovery Island fish farms—but only for 18 months. All farms must be emptied by June 30, 2022, with no new licences to be issued.
  15. until
    Christmas at Christ Church Cathedral: Lessons and Carols for Christmas (on CHEK TV and our website) December 20, 2020 - 4.00 pm - CHEK TV December 24, 2020 - 10.00 pm - CHEK TV Available on demand on the cathedral website from the evening of December 20, 2020. Christmas Eve Livestream Service – Solemn Evensong December 24, 2020 – 4.00 pm - Livestream link: www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca/live Christmas Day Livestream Service – Service of the Word December 25, 2020 – 10.30 am - Livestream link: www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca/live The First Sunday of Christmas – The Dean reads O. Henry’s Gift of the Magi This prerecorded video will be posted on the Video Services page on December 27, 2020 Please note that there will be no services in the cathedral on Sunday December 27, 2020. We will resume with livestreamed services on Sunday, January 3, 2021. Christ Church Cathedral 930 Burdett Ave, Victoria BC V8V 3G8 250.383.2714 x 228, cell 250-634-3696 www.christchurchcathedral.bc.ca
  16. until
    GEORGE CANYON EXCLUSIVE CONCERT SERIES 4 NIGHTS • 50 PEOPLE DECEMBER 17-20 - 7:30 PM Christmas is my favourite time of the year. My wife, kids and I love everything about it, including the music. Making a Christmas album was a natural thing to do. I put most of my favourite Christmas songs on this album. George Canyon rose to becoming one of Canada’s hottest Country Music stars in the early 2000’s and has won countless accolades and awards, including Juno Awards, CCMA Awards, and ECMA Awards to name a few. He has been inducted into the Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame, recorded 12 albums, and was recently presented a certified Platinum Award for his debut album ‘One Good Friend’. With country hits like Just Like You, I Believe in Angels, Drinkin’ Thinkin’, Daughters of the Sun, I Got This, I Want You To Live, Slow Dance and many, many more. He is also highly regarded humanitarian, strong supporter of the military, and, most important, a proud father and devoted husband. Order Tickets Now
  17. until
    fortune gallery's annual winter show December 2020 - January 2021 Every December we look forward to our winter show. Artists are invited to share with our amazing community some of their favourite pieces. This year has been challenging for many, it has been a year of learning, adapting and reacting. Please join us in celebrating the artists that continue to create, artists that are using these unprecedented times to fuel their creative endeavours; this years artists are Ron Wilson, Ken Horn, Mike Kammerer, Hélène Cyr, Nathan Davis, Kristofer Parley, Rose Currie, Paul McNair, Bob McPartlin & Robert Lovett. While we will not be having an opening night celebration, gallery hours have been extended slightly as we are sharing the space with Bean Around the World Coffee shop as overflow seating. If you would like to see the art without the crowds, please drop in after 3pm (gallery remains open until 5pm) Please feel free to contact the gallery at 250.383.1552 for more information. Please adhere to social distancing procedures and wear a mask while in the gallery. Above all else, stay safe, be kind. fortune gallery wants to wish each and every one of you a safe and a very happy holiday season. The gallery will be closed from December 23rd - January 1st 2021 so that we can spend time with the ones we care about. Be calm, be safe, wear a mask. 537 fisgard street victoria bc
  18. until
    Deck the Walls XI December 3 - 21 Madrona Gallery is pleased to announce its 11th annual Deck the Walls exhibition. This rotating group exhibition will change every week throughout December to accommodate the large number of paintings in the show. A number of artists have produced excellent small works to reflect the season. In this group show, we highlight the diversity of our stable of artists with selected works produced specifically for this show and some staff favourites that look back to exhibitions from 2020. For further details on the exhibition and opening, please contact the gallery or visit www.madronagallery.com Image: Madeleine Wood, "Dawn Dream", 48 x 36, Oil on Canvas M A D R O N A G A L L E R Y | 606 View Street | Victoria, B.C. V8W 1J4 T: 250.380.4660 E:info@madronagallery.com
  19. St. Mary’s Oak Bay Church presents “Excel in Joy” Advent Lunchtime Concert Series Wednesdays at 12:00 noon. December 16: Marnie-Seka Mooney, Soprano; Kathryn LeGros, Piano; Diane Berry, Flautist Reserve one of the limited in-person spaces by sending an email to admin@stmarysoakbay.ca or watch the live stream for each concert at www.stmarysoakbay.ca/adventmusic2020 Donations can be made to Victoria Hospice Bereavement Fund, in Memory of Series Founder, Musician and Vocal Teacher, Catherine Young.
  20. St. Mary’s Oak Bay Church presents “Excel in Joy” Advent Lunchtime Concert Series Wednesdays at 12:00 noon. December 9: Lenny Pollet, Flute & Fran Pollet, Piano and Organ And December 16: Marnie-Seka Mooney, Soprano; Kathryn LeGros, Piano; Diane Berry, Flautist Reserve one of the limited in-person spaces by sending an email to admin@stmarysoakbay.ca or watch the live stream for each concert at www.stmarysoakbay.ca/adventmusic2020 Donations can be made to Victoria Hospice Bereavement Fund, in Memory of Series Founder, Musician and Vocal Teacher, Catherine Young.
  21. until
    Bringing the Magic of Nutcracker to Everyone's Home This Holiday December 10 - 13, 2020 - As part of Dance Victoria's (Virtual) Home Season VICTORIA, B.C. – Dance Victoria is bringing the magic of the holiday classic, Nutcracker, to the safety and comfort of your home this December with the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers featuring guest artists from the Kyiv Ballet of the National Opera of Ukraine. And if Dance Victoria has its way, every marginalized child will have equal opportunity to see this incredible presentation through the Nutcracker Kids campaign.“Last year we presented this exuberant production at the Royal Theatre and it brought the house down,” explains Executive Producer Stephen White. “There’s a huge Ukrainian dance sequence (a Hopak) in the second half of the program with dancers leaping, flipping and tumbling across the stage. It is truly remarkable. Last year the Royal Theatre audience jumped to their feet when it was all over!” Because we can’t be at the Royal this season and because we have a long tradition of asking our community to help us bring children and families that are facing life challenges to the Nutcracker, this season we’re looking for support to bring Shumka’s Nutcracker to everyone’s home. As part of this initiative, Dance Victoria is partnering with Victoria Women’s Transition House and other agencies through our Nutcracker Kids program. Each $65 donation is matched with free access to the online Nutcracker package. You can visit DanceVictoria.com/nutkids to donate. Nutcracker Kids Campaign Chair, Julie Rust Personal Real Estate Corporation, said it’s more important than ever to help those in need this holiday season:“As a community member and a realtor at Newport Realty, one of the things that I feel strongly about is supporting the arts in Victoria. Because we can’t get together at the Royal Theatre this year, Dance Victoria is bringing Nutcracker to you, creating an incredible opportunity to bring this presentation to even more children and their families in 2020. I hope you will join us.”Shumka's Nutcracker blends the grace and lyricism of classical ballet with the strength of Ukrainian character dance in a celebration of Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. Choreographed by Viktor Lytvynov, this production features principal artists from the Kyiv Ballet of the National Opera of Ukraine, singers in Clara’s Dream Choir, and young dancers from Victoria’s Veselka Dance as part of the Children’s Ensemble. Lavish sets and costumes are designed by National Opera of Ukraine’s Maria Levitska.Based on E.T.A. Hoffman’s beloved tale The Nutcracker, Shumka’s Nutcracker begins when a young girl receives a Nutcracker doll from her godfather, Dr. Drosselmeier on Christmas Eve. As the clock in the Staulbaum home strikes midnight, the Nutcracker springs to life in a battle against the Mouse King. With Clara’s help, the Nutcracker and his battalion of toy soldiers defeat the Mouse King and his army, breaking a spell and returning the Nutcracker to his human form: a handsome prince. As a gesture of his gratitude, the prince takes Clara on a magical journey, where they meet a cast of unforgettable characters. Ukrainian Christmas traditions and symbols are woven into this full-length production as well as a Ukrainian Christmas carol - a grand orchestral and choral version of Shchedryk (Carol of the Bells) arranged by renowned Ukrainian composer Yuri Shevchenko. Ticket holders to the virtual Nutcracker enjoy a password-protected HD Nutcracker video presentation available from Thursday, December 10 at 5 pm until Sunday, December 13 at 5 pm. Extras include a Nutcracker Story Time video with local storyteller Jim Leard, downloadable colouring pages and crafts for the little ones, detailed program notes with complete casting, a Nutcracker signature cocktail (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) demonstration with Cascadia Liquor, messages from the show’s sponsors and more – all accessible from DanceVictoria.com.Ukrainian Shumka Dancers in NutcrackerThurs, December 10 – Available 5 pmFriday, December 11 – All DaySaturday, December 12 – All DaySunday, December 13 – Ends 5 pmHow to Buy TicketsA four-show subscription and single tickets are very affordable. Not only will you enjoy superb performances, but your purchase will support Dance Victoria during this challenging season. Subscriber Pricing* 4-show package $80 ($20/show) Non-Subscriber/Single Ticket Pricing*$25/show *Prices do not include GST, credit card fees and ticket surcharges. Subscriptions are on sale only until November 15, 2020.How To BuyOnline at DanceVictoria.com Support Nutcracker Kids: DanceVictoria.com/nutkids ****Dance Victoria's (Virtual) Home Season: Compagnie Hervé KOUBI | Nov 12-15, 2020 – Watch Together/Chat After: Saturday, Nov 14 Ukrainian Shumka Dancers in Nutcracker | Dec 10-13, 2020 - Watch Together/Chat After: Sunday, Dec 13Grupo Corpo | Feb 25-28, 2021 - Watch Together/Chat After: Saturday, Feb 27 Bereishit Dance Company | Apr 8-11, 2021 - Watch Together/Chat After: Saturday, Apr 10 About Dance VictoriaDance Victoria brings the World’s Best Dance to the Royal Theatre and to your home and supports the development of new dance for the international stage from its studios in Quadra Village. Dance Victoria is a non-profit charitable society. DanceVictoria.com
  22. Posted December 1, 2020 Image: A forest view in the Millstream Creek watershed on the property TLC is purchasing. TLC needs another $45,000 to finalize purchase of 27 acres of the the Millstream Creek Watershed. Go to story
  23. TLC needs another $45,000 to finalize purchase of 27 acres of the the Millstream Creek Watershed. A forest view in the Millstream Creek Watershed. (Photo by Dianna Stenberg) THE LAND CONSERVANCY OF BC’s latest fundraising campaign is focused on protecting a key 27-acre Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystem in the Millstream Creek Watershed. Located in the District of Highlands, the lush and diverse property is comprised of a mature forest and three different wetland types (sedge marsh, hardhack marsh, and skunk cabbage swamp). Dominated by Douglas-fir, other trees include western red cedar, grand fir, arbutus, Garry oak, and red alder. The understory flourishes with salal, dull Oregon-grape, ocean-spray, bracken fern, sword fern, trailing blackberry, western trumpet honeysuckle, and Oregon beaked moss. The Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystem is the smallest and most at-risk zone in BC because it has been so altered by human activities. Less than one percent of the CDF remains as natural forests. Species-at-risk, including the Northern red-legged frog (SARA listed species of Special Concern) are found within its boundaries. While the Millstream Creek Watershed property on its own is valuable as a nature sanctuary, its importance really resides in the connectivity it provides for wildlife and protection of the local watershed. With two creeks (Earsman Creek in the east and an unnamed creek in the west) and numerous ephemeral streams that flow into Mary Lake, the parcel functions as a water source for the sensitive lake system found to the south. Protecting this parcel will help maintain a healthy intact watershed for these lakes, and allow for crucial wildlife corridors to the adjacent 42-acre Mary Lake Nature Sanctuary and established Capital Regional District (CRD) parks in the area. In 2016, the Greater Victoria Greenbelt Society purchased 42 acres around Mary Lake from the estate of Peter and Violet Brotherston for about $2 million, with Tsartlip First Nation joining as partners in 2018. Cathy Armstrong, executive director of TLC, says, “Our piece [27 acres] was needed to complete the Sanctuary,” as it will conserve and protect the lands around the lake. All of the Nature Sanctuary land was originally used by the Pauquachin, Tsartlip, Tsawout, Tseycum, Esquimalt and Whyomilth (Songhees) peoples for hunting, gathering food and medicinal plants and spiritual practices. Due to donations from the community since the campaign was announced this fall, the initial goal of raising $75,000 by December 31 has been whittled down to $45,000. Donations are being matched 4-fold by an anonymous donor. So a $500 donation becomes, in effect, $2500. The federal government has also contributed funds towards the overall purchase. Armstrong is especially excited that salmon spawning streams can be rejuvenated and restocked with coho. “Mary Lake can be a breeding and nurturing place for the fry,” says Armstrong. Yet another partnership is involved in this endeavour: “Peninsula Streams Society is key to re-establishing coho in the watershed, beginning with the newly constructed Millstream Creek Fishway,” says Armstrong. The Fishway project includes building five fish ladders, the first of which was constructed in the summer of 2020, allowing migrating fish access to over 6.5 km of habitat upstream of the Atkins Road culvert. Brian Koval, biological coordinator for Peninsula Stream Society describes the project thoroughly in a video (see below), pointing out that the Atkins Road culvert was impassable till this summer. In all, as the video illustrates, 13 step pools with weirs were constructed up to the huge culvert, which was lined with concrete to further help the fish heading upstream. Four more ladders are coming, as well as plantings of native plants on eroding banks and some trash removal (volunteers welcome). Ian Bruce, executive director for the society describes it as the organization’s biggest project ever. Once all fish ladders and other restoration work is completed, coho (initially from local hatcheries) will have access from Esquimalt Harbour right upstream to Mary Lake with the deep pools, gravel, and vegetation they need to thrive. With TLC’s financial problems well behind them the organization has purchased a property every year since 2017. “We do so carefully and slowly,” says Armstrong, “making sure we have all the resources we need to fund an endowment.” She sees the purchase of this watershed property as a rare opportunity to protect an undisturbed parcel of critically imperiled Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystem on southern Vancouver Island, The sanctuary will be just that with only limited access by the public. A number of hiking groups have toured the property with Armstrong who says that the fall weather only seems to have enhanced the beauty of the property, with the strong-running creeks, a waterfall and lush green vegetation, all habitat for many birds, frogs, and deer. “TLC envisions a future for the site that protects the vast biological diversity found within its boundaries while including educational opportunities for participants in the land trust’s existing Passport to Nature Program and Deertrails Naturalist Program,” says Armstrong. Support for the Millstream Creek Watershed acquisition can be arranged by calling TLC at 1-877-485-2422 or by giving online today at www.conservancy.bc.ca/millstream. Any amount is welcome. Also contact TLC if you’d like to arrange a tour of the property for your group. Besides the TLC’s website, further information on the Mary Lake Sanctuary can be found at https://www.marylakeconnections.ca. Leslie Campbell is the editor of FOCUS. Learn more about the Millstream Creek fish ladders:
  24. TLC needs another $45,000 to finalize purchase of 27 acres of the the Millstream Creek Watershed. A forest view in the Millstream Creek Watershed. (Photo by Dianna Stenberg) THE LAND CONSERVANCY OF BC’s latest fundraising campaign is focused on protecting a key 27-acre Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystem in the Millstream Creek Watershed. Located in the District of Highlands, the lush and diverse property is comprised of a mature forest and three different wetland types (sedge marsh, hardhack marsh, and skunk cabbage swamp). Dominated by Douglas-fir, other trees include western red cedar, grand fir, arbutus, Garry oak, and red alder. The understory flourishes with salal, dull Oregon-grape, ocean-spray, bracken fern, sword fern, trailing blackberry, western trumpet honeysuckle, and Oregon beaked moss. The Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystem is the smallest and most at-risk zone in BC because it has been so altered by human activities. Less than one percent of the CDF remains as natural forests. Species-at-risk, including the Northern red-legged frog (SARA listed species of Special Concern) are found within its boundaries. While the Millstream Creek Watershed property on its own is valuable as a nature sanctuary, its importance really resides in the connectivity it provides for wildlife and protection of the local watershed. With two creeks (Earsman Creek in the east and an unnamed creek in the west) and numerous ephemeral streams that flow into Mary Lake, the parcel functions as a water source for the sensitive lake system found to the south. Protecting this parcel will help maintain a healthy intact watershed for these lakes, and allow for crucial wildlife corridors to the adjacent 42-acre Mary Lake Nature Sanctuary and established Capital Regional District (CRD) parks in the area. In 2016, the Greater Victoria Greenbelt Society purchased 42 acres around Mary Lake from the estate of Peter and Violet Brotherston for about $2 million, with Tsartlip First Nation joining as partners in 2018. Cathy Armstrong, executive director of TLC, says, “Our piece [27 acres] was needed to complete the Sanctuary,” as it will conserve and protect the lands around the lake. All of the Nature Sanctuary land was originally used by the Pauquachin, Tsartlip, Tsawout, Tseycum, Esquimalt and Whyomilth (Songhees) peoples for hunting, gathering food and medicinal plants and spiritual practices. Due to donations from the community since the campaign was announced this fall, the initial goal of raising $75,000 by December 31 has been whittled down to $45,000. Donations are being matched 4-fold by an anonymous donor. So a $500 donation becomes, in effect, $2500. The federal government has also contributed funds towards the overall purchase. Armstrong is especially excited that salmon spawning streams can be rejuvenated and restocked with coho. “Mary Lake can be a breeding and nurturing place for the fry,” says Armstrong. Yet another partnership is involved in this endeavour: “Peninsula Streams Society is key to re-establishing coho in the watershed, beginning with the newly constructed Millstream Creek Fishway,” says Armstrong. The Fishway project includes building five fish ladders, the first of which was constructed in the summer of 2020, allowing migrating fish access to over 6.5 km of habitat upstream of the Atkins Road culvert. Brian Koval, biological coordinator for Peninsula Stream Society describes the project thoroughly in a video (see below), pointing out that the Atkins Road culvert was impassable till this summer. In all, as the video illustrates, 13 step pools with weirs were constructed up to the huge culvert, which was lined with concrete to further help the fish heading upstream. Four more ladders are coming, as well as plantings of native plants on eroding banks and some trash removal (volunteers welcome). Ian Bruce, executive director for the society describes it as the organization’s biggest project ever. Once all fish ladders and other restoration work is completed, coho (initially from local hatcheries) will have access from Esquimalt Harbour right upstream to Mary Lake with the deep pools, gravel, and vegetation they need to thrive. With TLC’s financial problems well behind them the organization has purchased a property every year since 2017. “We do so carefully and slowly,” says Armstrong, “making sure we have all the resources we need to fund an endowment.” She sees the purchase of this watershed property as a rare opportunity to protect an undisturbed parcel of critically imperiled Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystem on southern Vancouver Island, The sanctuary will be just that with only limited access by the public. A number of hiking groups have toured the property with Armstrong who says that the fall weather only seems to have enhanced the beauty of the property, with the strong-running creeks, a waterfall and lush green vegetation, all habitat for many birds, frogs, and deer. “TLC envisions a future for the site that protects the vast biological diversity found within its boundaries while including educational opportunities for participants in the land trust’s existing Passport to Nature Program and Deertrails Naturalist Program,” says Armstrong. Support for the Millstream Creek Watershed acquisition can be arranged by calling TLC at 1-877-485-2422 or by giving online today at www.conservancy.bc.ca/millstream. Any amount is welcome. Also contact TLC if you’d like to arrange a tour of the property for your group. Besides the TLC’s website, further information on the Mary Lake Sanctuary can be found at https://www.marylakeconnections.ca. Leslie Campbell is the editor of FOCUS. Learn more about the Millstream fish ladders:
  25. Posted November 21, 2020 Image: Efren Quiroz making a video of Dominique Chapheau demonstrating making a monoprint. Arc.Hive has created a wealth of artist demos and gallery tours, all online, aim at fostering creativity and community. Go to story
×
×
  • Create New...