Protect the Mary Lake Nature Sanctuary Forever!

Time is running out to secure the funds needed for the continued protection of this special sanctuary and wildlife corridor in the Greater Victoria region. Important ecosystems in the region are disappearing fast as a result of urban development. We need government and granting agencies to step up asap to provide the remaining funds to secure the Mary Lake Nature Sanctuary lands in-perpetuity. Your signature of support will help!

PLEASE SIGN THIS PETITION NOW to urge regional and provincial governments and other agencies to provide the remaining funds needed to complete the acquisition of these lands for future generations before it is too late.

Continuing the 70-year legacy of conservancy on this acreage will:

• Protect the 3-ha lake, riparian areas, wetlands and streams of the Millstream Watershed and regional aquifers. We have already lost 80% of the regional wetlands to development.

• Preserve advanced second-growth Coastal Douglas-fir stands, 6 endangered ecological plant communities and various at-risk species of the CDFmm subzone. This heavily developed subzone is just 0.3% of BC. and among the most imperiled coastal ecosystems.

• Safeguard an essential wildlife corridor between Gowlland Tod and Thetis Lake parks that supports biodiversity needed for healthy ecosystems.

• Provide a secluded 427 sq. m. lakeside nature house for workshops, classes and community use in an inspiring natural setting.

Since 2016, the Greater Victoria Greenbelt Society has been successful in providing short-term protection to the Mary Lake Nature Sanctuary lands in partnership with Vancity Community Real Estate Dept., and many other supportive organizations as well as generous public donors. We want this to be permanent.

A special partnership between land trusts, conservation focused non-profits and First Nations is forming to bring together western scientific conservation methods with Traditional environmental perspectives and practices, to maintain and restore endangered habitats, as well as recover the populations of species at risk. This model puts this project on the cutting edge of conservancy initiatives and requires thoughtful planning and time.

The MLN Sanctuary also provides a natural "living classroom" that can bring together learning and lands, conservation, research, and cultures for all people. This initiative creates a conserved area, nature appreciation learning centre and community space on south Vancouver Island.

Charitable Donations can be made through our secure site

Contact us at info@marylakegvgs.com