Protecting natural spaces through sound science, practical partnerships and lasting care

Saanich’s forests, wetlands, streams, mature trees and wildlife habitat are part of what makes this community home. Protecting them requires ongoing care, thoughtful land-use decisions and a willingness to act before damage becomes difficult or expensive to repair.

My approach comes from hands-on volunteering and elected governance roles with two provincial conservation organizations. That experience has taught me to look at the evidence, ask how a project will be funded and maintained, and consider whether it will deliver meaningful results over time.

I would bring that same approach to Council.

Protect habitat early in planning

Environmental protection needs to begin when plans are being developed. By the time a proposal reaches its final stages, opportunities to retain trees, protect habitat or change a building’s footprint may already have narrowed.

I would work toward:

• Identifying sensitive habitat, mature trees and ecological connections early in development and infrastructure planning
• Considering the cumulative effects of multiple projects on natural areas, drainage and wildlife
• Retaining established natural features wherever feasible and explaining the trade-offs clearly when impacts cannot be avoided
• Ensuring restoration and replacement commitments include ongoing care and follow-up

New planting matters, but it takes time to develop the ecological functions of an established tree or habitat. Council should understand what is being lost, what can realistically be restored and how long that recovery may take.

Turn strategies into measurable results

Saanich’s conservation and urban forest strategies should guide everyday decisions and practical work on the ground.

I would ask for clear implementation priorities, realistic budgets and public reporting. Depending on the project, useful measures could include tree survival, native habitat recovery, invasive-species reduction and improvements in ecological condition.

Counting how many trees were planted or how many volunteer events were held tells us what was done. We also need to understand whether that work succeeded.

Strengthen stewardship partnerships

Local stewardship groups bring knowledge, commitment and countless volunteer hours to our natural spaces. I want Council to recognize that contribution and work with them as partners.

That could include practical support for restoration projects, coordination with municipal staff and assistance identifying suitable grants.

Partnerships with conservation organizations and researchers can also help establish sound methods and evaluate results.

Volunteers can extend what Saanich accomplishes, but they need clear expectations, appropriate support and continuity. Their efforts should complement a dependable municipal commitment to conservation.

Address invasive species with a long-term plan

Invasive-species management requires persistence. Removing a problem once is rarely enough if there is no follow-up or plan to restore the affected area.

I would support prioritizing work according to ecological risk, the likelihood of success and available resources. Treatment should be paired with monitoring, prevention and native habitat restoration where appropriate.

For concerns affecting lakes, streams or wetlands, I would seek relevant expertise to understand the causes and choose methods that protect the wider ecosystem.

Make recreation and conservation work together

Conservation means enjoying nature while taking responsibility for its future. People need opportunities to walk, explore and spend time outdoors. Sensitive habitat also needs protection.

I would approach park-use decisions by asking:

• What does the ecological evidence tell us?
• Where can different activities occur responsibly?
• What measures would reduce impacts?
• What reasonable alternatives can we provide when access needs to be limited?

That includes dog access. I want dog owners, park users, ecologists and volunteer stewards involved in respectful discussions. Where off-leash activity is unsuitable for sensitive habitat, Council should examine appropriate alternatives elsewhere in Saanich or through regional partnerships.

Clear information, well-planned access and practical facilities can help people care for the places they enjoy.

Spend responsibly and plan for ongoing care

Conservation projects need the same financial discipline as other municipal investments. Before approving spending, I would ask about the public benefit, the evidence supporting the approach, and the costs of maintenance and monitoring.

I would pursue grants and partnerships while ensuring there is a realistic plan to sustain the work after initial funding ends. Existing infrastructure should be assessed for its condition and effectiveness before taxpayers are asked to replace it.

Good stewardship means caring for both our natural assets and the public resources entrusted to Council.

How this connects to my priorities

Protect What Makes Saanich Home means safeguarding the natural spaces that define our community. Families First means future generations can enjoy healthy parks and ecosystems. Community Driven means working with residents and stewardship partners. Responsible Leadership means using science, funding ongoing care and showing whether our efforts are making a difference.