The BC Parks Foundation has reached its fundraising goal in time to purchase approximately 800-hectares of property for sale at Princess Louisa Inlet to protect the region from development.
“Because of the incredible generosity of British Columbians and parks supporters from around the world, the BC Parks Foundation has raised the necessary funds in our campaign to purchase three key properties in Princess Louisa Inlet,” Andrew Day, BC Parks Foundation CEO, told Coast Reporter in an email.
The Foundation signed a purchase agreement with the vendor after the three parcels of land along the waterfront of the southern side of the inlet went up for sale. The expiry date for raising the $3 million sale price was Aug. 28.
As of Wednesday morning, the foundation was still receiving donations.
With the money in place, Day said the foundation is working with the vendor and expects to close the deal on Sept. 3, at which time they will formally announce the sale.
“Individuals and groups from all walks of life came forward to join our cause,” said Day. “We look forward to discussions and working with the Sechelt Nation and BC Parks as a part of the next steps as we continue working towards our goal of converting this area into a Class A Provincial Park or equivalent protection.” The eight-kilometre long Princess Louisa Inlet, called swiwelát in she shashishalem, is located near the top of Jervis Inlet. The granite-walls of the fjord are more than 2,100 metres high, plunging into 300-metre deep and calm waters, making it a world-class attraction for boaters and outdoor enthusiasts.
A provincial marine park is situated at the head of the inlet, and the Princess Louisa International Society contributes annual funding for a park ranger position in the area.
The foundation’s long-term goal is to create a protected area of 9,000-hectares, comprised of the existing marine park, the soon-to-be purchased land and adjoining crown land and properties with conservation covenants.
Day declined to comment on who major contributors to the funding were and the geographic breakdown of donations to respect donors’ anonymity, but said, “we can say that we have felt tremendous support from the Sunshine Coast community, as well as visitors who have fond memories and ties to the area.”
This story originally appeared on the Coast Reporter website.
