Whispering Creek Monitoring Project
The Conservancy arranged for a preliminary sensitive species assessment which was conducted and prepared by Maddison Consultants. The assessment confirmed the likely presence of both at-risk and species of concern, as well as the presence of rare varieties of mosses, amphibians, and migratory birds. You can read the report here.
On 23 February, four scientists from EcoLogic Consultants conducted a survey of the ecological, biological, and archaeological attributes of the planned logging cutblock. You can read the report here
Additionally, the University of Northern British Columbia has provided the Conservancy with environmental DNA (eDNA) testing equipment for water sampling to be done in Whispering Creek to determine the presence of the Coastal Tailed Frog, one of the species of concern.
The Gambier Island Streamkeepers have been restarted and they will monitor the water temperature in Whispering Creek Creek before and after any logging.
The EcoLogic Consultant's study, involving four scientists who attended the site on February 23, 2021, has a $15,000 value, but is being provided to the Conservancy for $4,000.
As a result, we are looking for donations to help offset this expense. The eDNA studies will cost an additional $3,000, which two property owners in West Bay have generously donated.
For more information, contact gambierconservancy@gmail.com