Pilot Community Case Studies
The Stewardship Centre for BC (SCBC) is collaborating with partners across the Capital Regional District (CRD), Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN), and Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) to advance equitable access to greenspaces. Together, we are working to:
- Connect equity-deserving communities with urban greenspaces
- Increase awareness of the environmental, health, and social benefits of nature
- Promote equity-informed approaches in community planning and climate action
Explore the case studies below to see how this work is taking shape in each region. Each case study highlights a unique combination of community partnerships, engagement activities, outreach events, and education initiatives designed to foster stronger, more inclusive connections to greenspaces.
CRD Case Study
- Community-level Needs Assessment
The BioBlitz x Community Gathering Space, hosted in partnership with the Gorge Waterway Action Society (GWAS), invited community members to connect with nature in an inclusive, low-barrier setting at Esquimalt Gorge Park. The event combined social connection and environmental learning, offering visitors the opportunity to connect, explore local biodiversity, and participate in a guided BioBlitz to discover the park’s diverse plant and wildlife species. Conversations with attendees highlighted how the park serves as a vibrant community hub for family gatherings, walks, and cultural activities, underscoring the social and ecological value of accessible urban greenspaces.
- Community Planting Parties
On November 1 and 2, 2024, more than 40 volunteers joined SCBC’s Greenspace for All team, the Township of Esquimalt, Gorge Waterway Action Society, and World Fisheries Trust for a two-day Community Planting Party at the Esquimalt Gorge Park Green Shores Demonstration Project. Despite light rain, participants enthusiastically planted hundreds of native plants, including Pacific dogwood, salal, and dune grass, in newly restored riparian and salt marsh areas. Attendees learned about the ecological importance of native vegetation in strengthening shoreline resilience and supporting biodiversity. The event fostered hands-on conservation, environmental learning, and a strong sense of community connection through shared stewardship.
- Winter Bird Walk
On February 1, 2025, over 60 community members gathered at the Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary in Saanich for a Winter Bird Walk and Crafts event. Guided by ornithologist Hannah Hickli, participants were treated to snow, rain, and sunshine while exploring the sanctuary’s trails, observing local bird species, and learning about their unique traits and behaviours. After the walk, guests warmed up inside the Nature House with snacks, warm drinks, and a creative arts and crafts activity led by the Gorge Waterway Action Society – a perfect mix of nature, learning, and community connection.
- Oceans Day Nature Walk
On June 7, 2025, SCBC led a Green Shores Nature Walk at Esquimalt Gorge Park, in celebration of World Ocean Day. Participants were guided along the newly restored Esquimalt Gorge Park shoreline, learning about how nature-based solutions can protect and restore coastal ecosystems while supporting biodiversity, climate resilience, and community health. This event was hosted by the Gorge Waterway Action Society and Seaquaria, in collaboration with the Federation of Mountain Clubs of BC and the Vancouver Island Trails Association.
RDN Case Study
- One in Spirit Walk at Bowen Park
On June 26, 2025, SCBC partnered with the Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society (CVIMS) to host a One in Spirit Walk at Bowen Park, led by Elder Randy Fred of the Tseshaht First Nation. The walk invited newcomers to connect with nature, each other, and Indigenous culture through storytelling and reflection. Eight participants joined the walk and gathered for lunch. For many attendees, this was their first visit to Bowen Park – a peaceful space that fostered mindfulness, connection to nature, and a newfound sense of place.
- Nature Wander at Buttertubs Marsh Park
On September 19th, 2025, SCBC hosted a Nature Wander for students and newcomers at Buttertubs Marsh Park in Nanaimo, BC. Along the walk, participants were invited to bird watch with Nature Nanaimo and practice mindfulness with SeaStrength Health. SCBC and Vancouver Island University also had the chance to speak with participants and parkgoers about accessible greenspaces and the benefits of nature.
CVRD Case Study
- Pride Walk at Bevan Wetlands
In celebration of the Comox Valley Pride Festival, SCBC partnered with the Queer Centre Comox Valley to host a Nature Walk at the Bevan Wetlands in Courtenay, BC. Led by meika johnson, an Indigiqueer artist, educator, and community organizer, the walk brought together eleven queer community members and allies to connect with nature, land, and each other. Through an active land acknowledgment and storytelling along the Puntledge River, meika shared insights and reflections on the area’s colonial history, cultural significance to First Nations, and connections between the diversity of nature and queerness.
