Co-ordinators: (Tuesday and Thursday) Kathleen Martin
Rosemary Balfour, Dave Clark
The Woodlands is one of the last untouched Garry Oak meadows on southern Vancouver Island. The gardens, approximately 22 acres, or 2/3 of the property, lie behind and below the House.The best time to view the Woodlands is March to early June. An interpretive board at the trailhead provides restoration information, flora illustrations, and nine numbered trailside viewpoints, which include a rare trembling aspen grove.
The Woodlanders (as the volunteers call themselves) consider themselves stewards of this unique ecosystem. They have worked since 1991 to create a habitat for plants, birds, bees, and butterflies.To restore the native habitat, they remove invasive species and encourage native plants such as salal, sword ferns, Nootka rose, and Oregon grape.
Spring blooms range from satin-flowers, spring-gold and Indian plum’s dangling blossoms, followed by oak buds, white fawn lilies, purple-blue camas, shooting star, western buttercups, to ground orchids and delicate harvest broadiaea. Fall rains bring mosses and licorice ferns.
Where the Wild Things Grow
The Woodlanders prepare for the arrival of Anne, The Princess Royal whose May visit coincided with the best time to see the Woodlands in all its glory. Volunteers were especially pleased at her positive comments about the area. Princess Anne also took photos of the camas and the Coronation Walkway from the Terraces.
Woodlanders removing invasive species at the Lookout to encourage the growth of native plants such as salal, sword ferns, Nootka rose, and Oregon grape (now in bloom).
Pathway Named in Honour of King Charles III
The trail has been improved to better withstand winter’s inclement weather. It is bordered by a split rail fence which will encourage visitors to protect the woodland ecosystem. Members were later treated to hot chocolate and pastries.
Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin officially opening the Woodlands Coronation Pathway.
For the live action official opening, just click on this link Woodland Path Opening to enjoy a (very) brief video of Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin cutting the ribbon.
As Friends president Patty Grant says, “King Charles III has been a strong champion of environmental causes long before they became an important focus for many of us.”