British Columbia allocates $500,000 to restore 70 hectares of Cowichan Estuary marsh

The Province of British Columbia is providing half-a-million dollars for a 70-hectare marsh restoration in the Cowichan Estuary, aiming to boost flood resilience and biodiversity.

British Columbia has committed $500,000 to a major restoration initiative covering 70 hectares of marsh in the Cowichan Estuary, a critical habitat for salmon and other coastal species. The project, coordinated by the Nature Trust of BC together with Cowichan Tribes, will rebuild fish and bird habitats, expand a native plant nursery, monitor groundwater, and add public trails and a viewing platform. Flood mitigation is a central goal, as restored marshes can absorb storm surges and protect nearby farms and communities.

Indigenous stewardship is emphasized, with Chief Sulsulxumaat Cindy Daniels noting the work continues generations of Quw'utsun stewardship and supports food security. Funding partners include the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and Environment and Climate Change Canada. The initiative has earned the Real Estate Foundation of BC’s Land Award for Food Sovereignty, highlighting its role in climate adaptation and community resilience.