Along the Sunshine Coast, you can find unique sand ecosystems that are rare in B.C. Coastal sand ecosystems are a combination of sand and plants -with the plants often scattered in patches on beaches, spits and dunes.
Tides, storm surges and ocean spray help to build and maintain these ecosystems. The variety of plant communities that result support a wide range of rare and interesting animal life.
A well-known site with coastal sand on the Sun-shine Coast is Buccaneer Bay Provincial Park located on the southern end of North Thormanby Island.
To raise awareness, the South Coast Conservation Program, in partnership with the Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve Society and BC Parks, is hosting a weekend event at Buccaneer Bay Provincial Park to celebrate the Sunshine Coast's sand ecosystems.
TheCoastal Sand Summer Celebrationtakes place this weekend, July 20 and 21, with the Family Festival Day on Saturday. Activities will include information booths, guided naturalist walks, a hot dog barbecue and nature games for all ages.
The following day will involve habitat restoration where people can help to rid the park of invasive Scotch broom. No experience is necessary, but pre-registration is required for the broom removal activity.
Coastal sand ecosystems are important as they contribute to B.C.'s biodiversity, provide recreational benefits for outdoor enthusiasts and buffer inland areas from flooding or storm damage. However, these areas are fragile and vulnerable to human disturbances such as the spread of invasive plants like Scotch broom.
For more information about the event, including information on transportation, visitwww.sccp.ca.
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