Join Nature Conservancy of Canada staff on May 21 for a free barbecue and guided tour in support of their latest conservation project in the Columba Valley, the beautiful Marion Creek Benchlands.

The free event runs from noon to 3 p.m.

“We are excited to take people out onto the property,” say Nancy Newhouse, Canadian Rocky Mountains Program Manager for the Nature Conservancy of Canada. “The benchlands above Columbia Lake are a spectacular walking area, and the property embodies so many of the natural features that draw people to this area.”

The Nature Conservancy of Canada is fundraising to protect Marion Creek Benchlands, which is one of the last unprotected parcels of private land on the western benchland above Columbia Lake.  The group has until June 20 to raise the $1.7 million needed to purchase and protect Marion Creek Benchlands forever. They are well on their way, with 80 per cent of the funds already secured.

“So far the community has been very enthusiastic about this project, and we encourage everyone to come out and see first-hand what this project is all about,” says Newhouse.

The event starts at the Columbia Ridge Community Hall, 6890 Columbia Lake Road with a short presentation, followed by carpooling to the property. The carpool will depart at 1 p.m. Please bring sturdy walking shoes, water bottle and camera, if desired. Please call or email ahead to ensure enough food at the barbecue: 250-342-5521 or canadian.rockies@natureconservancy.ca.

Christy Madson