Natural spaces important for wildlife and people need to be preserved!

~wildlife education~

The mission of the North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) and Centre in Errington is to care for ill, injured and orphaned wildlife, and to educate the public on wildlife and environmental issues. Approximately 800 animals are admitted to NIWRA each year, and we do our best to reintroduce as many as possible back to the wild. But there must continue to be untouched wild areas where we can release animals safely, and where various species can thrive, that’s why we are adding our voice to the chorus calling for the protection of the Hamilton Marsh Wetlands and Forest.

[Photo credit: Claire Summers]

Biodiversity-rich natural areas like the 360-hectare Hamilton Marsh Wetlands & Forest are so important to preserve – for wildlife, yes, but also for humans. As development continues at a rapid pace, areas that hold water are fewer and farther between. Drought continues to be a problem for Vancouver Island during warmer summers, and flooding is an issue during the wet season. Humans, wildlife and nature all rely on ground water, but the water table continues to lower.  Water retention areas like Hamilton Marsh are crucial for wells, for drinking water, and for feeding our rivers.

Birds and other animals need places like Hamilton Marsh to be safe preserved spaces where they can thrive. The Hamilton Marsh complex is a treasure trove of biodiversity and includes a very wide range of habitats & species.

Hamilton Marsh is the largest body of water in the French Creek Watershed, and it also contributes to the Little Qualicum Watershed. Marshes and other wetlands play an important role in nature, support biodiversity, and provide water for us and for many other creatures. Water retention is increasingly important due to development and climate change.  Preserving the Hamilton Wetlands & Forest is important for animals, plants, climate change mitigation, and for two watersheds.

Now that the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) and Mosaic Forest Management have announced a conditional Contract of Purchase and Sale (CPS) for approximately 360 hectares (ha) of land known as Hamilton Marsh, a precious area could be preserved, but funding support is needed.

We think it is a worthy cause. Visit https://hamiltonwetlands.com/ for more information on Hamilton Marsh and why it is important to save, and how you can help.

NIWRA, a non-profit organization, is situated in Errington, B.C. We are open to the public daily for viewing of non-releasable animals. You can help the wildlife in care at NIWRA by making a financial contribution on our secure website. Thank you so much for caring about wildlife!

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