In the spring of 2006, one of the world’s best-loved wildlife artists donated an etching to show his support for the campaign to preserve the Echo Heights Forest. Robert Bateman sent the Chemainus Residents Association a limited print etching of a Barred owl, just one of the many birds found in the 52 acres.
"As population in the Cowichan region grows, wild areas and public access to nature are becoming fewer and farther from where people live. Access to undeveloped areas is essential for the education of our children and for the spiritual and social health of our community. Protection of large natural areas is essential for the ecological integrity of our community and for the plants and other animals with which we share it. We have a landscape that supports many interesting ecological areas. Echo Heights is one such area. Although most of this area was logged in the past, it is now well into the process of recovery and is starting to exhibit the characteristics of an Older Coastal Douglas Fir forest. These forests have been classed by the Province as sensitive ecosystems and deserving of protection. As a community, we should be working to preserve these natural areas for current and future generations of all life." Eric Marshall, President, Cowichan Valley Naturalists
"We all know that wilderness all over the world is threatened, but urban wilderness is in the most serious crisis. Recent research in Europe, America and Japan has shown the beneficial effect of nature for body, mind and spirit. Particularly in young people, the frazzling electronic world is creating serious physical and mental problems. Nearby nature is essential for healing these increasing maladies.South Vancouver Island has precious and unique ecosystems. Echo Heights Forest is a beautiful example that needs to be preserved and protected. It will be even more precious as years go by and the world becomes more hectic." - Robert Bateman
Think Globablly, Act Locally
Echo Heights is classified as relatively old second growth Douglas Fir Forest, an ecosystem that has been vastly diminished and are among the five most imperiled ecosystems in Canada. These forests are the smallest and rarest biogeoclimatic zone in BC. They create a unique set of conditions that allow for a diverse group of plants and animals. In the foreseeable future this forest will start to have old growth Douglas Fir characteristics, a very rare thing on Vancouver Island. Only approximately 1% of the original old growth Douglas Fir on the Island remains.
Echo Heights’ rocky outcrops and wetlands provide important habitat to an array of birds, mammals and amphibians. Echo Heights is home to red-listed ecosystems described as “endangered” or “threatened” and important and rare garry oak meadows. Echo Heights is also home to several species “blue-listed” by the BC Ministry of Environment, such as the red-legged frog (Rana aurora) which is also listed as a “Species of Special Concern” under the federal Species at Risk Act.
Echo Heights also provides various environmental functions. The site serves to provide a natural water catchment basin, and allows for infiltration of precipitation away from storm water run off. Wetlands in particular help to manage rain-water and work towards improving water quality. Green space is also important for improvements to air quality by helping to absorb carbon emissions. Echo Heights also acts as a windbreak for the community and a buffer from the noise and pollution from the Trans Canada Highway as well as agricultural odours.
Areas like Echo Heights are essential for the sustainability of life, the environment and our health and well being.
Echo Heights has been a community park and recreation area since the late 1940's. Today, residents and visitors use the forest for hiking, running, dog-walking, bikeing, bird-watching and 'geo-caching'. Because of its fairly level trails and easy access, seniors and families with children are major users.
Echo Heights is a Community Asset
Echo Heights is a resource for students interested in studying the area's diverse ecosystems and species. Students and faculty from Vancouver Island University, from Tamagawa University’s satellite campus in Nanaimo and from Hong Kong teacher-training schools are among those who have toured Echo Heights Forest, bolstering North Cowichan’s reputation as a destination for unique learning experiences.