Co-ordinators: (Tuesday) Kathleen Martin, Rosemary Balfour, Dave Clark
(Thursday) Kathleen Martin
The Woodlands is one of the last untouched Garry Oak meadows on southern Vanocuver Island. The gardens, approximately 22 acres, or 2/3 of the property, lie behind and below the House. 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.
The best time to view the Woodlands is in the spring, from 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.
Pathway Named in Honour of King Charles III
Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin officially opening the Woodlands Coronation Pathway.
It 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 surrounding environmentally sensitive woodland ecosystem. Members were later treated to hot chocolate and pastries.
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.
Woodlanders enjoying the sunshine after the dedication. From left: Rosemary Balfour, Lee Rogers, and Rosemary O’Connell
As Friends president Patty Grant says, “King Charles III has been a strong champion of environmental causes for over 50 years, long before they became an important focus for many of us.”