We were very pleased to see the article profiling the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s efforts to protect Marion Creek Benchlands on the west side of Columbia Lake (Benchlands important for future, Feb 16, 2011). This conservation project has so many benefits for the local communities, in particular helping to maintain the natural features that draw so many of us here in the first place. Beyond protecting the natural beauty of the valley, Marion Creek Benchlands provides key habitats for important native wildlife, such as badger, elk, deer and bear. Many native plants flourish there as well. 

The Nature Conservancy of Canada is grateful for the enthusiasm and support so far expressed by the community for this project. We would like to correct one statement in the original article, however: the one that states the project is being supported by Columbia Basin Trust.  We have requests into numerous foundations, including Columbia Basin Trust, but they have not yet reviewed the application.  We are pleased to say we have already received support from several private donors and BC Hydro: Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program Columbia Basin.

We will be hosting a tour of Marion Creek Benchlands as part of the Wings Over the Rockies Bird Festival on Friday, May 6.   Please join us for a walk on this beautiful property.  Check out the details at http://www.wingsovertherockies.org/. 

Nancy Newhouse 

Program Manager 

Canadian Rocky Mountain Nature Conservancy of Canada, B.C.Region