In the West Creek Watershed of Langley, hidden within a forest, lies 66-hectares of natural terrain speckled with a lake, wetlands, and creeks. As one of the largest areas of wildlife habitat in the municipality, nearly 170 animals use the natural landscape, including up to 22 endangered or threatened species. This site is also an important temporary home for migrating waterfowl and songbirds.
Almost 25 percent of the world’s wetlands are found in Canada, and nearly 70 percent have vanished already. This ecological gem is now protected for future generations. Once a management strategy is established the site will be accessible to all ages and managed as a public nature park with low-impact facilities such as walking trails and boardwarks with wildlife viewing opportunities.
The Land Conservancy (TLC) secured an option to purchase the site valued at $3.6 million in 2006. The previous landowner generously agreed to sell the land for $2.5 million and accept a tax receipt under the federal Ecological Gifts program.
The purchase deal closed at the end of December 2006 for $2.5 million. The GVRD contributed $1.4 million, the Township $700,000, the BC Trust for Public Lands $300,000, and TLC $150,000.
Now known as West Creek Wetlands the land is managed by Metro Vancouver Parks as part of Glen Valley Regional Park. The area does not allow public access but our group visits the site regularly through the fall and winter to control invasive plants. Contact our coordinator through LEPS for info: stewardship@leps.bc.ca.