Sunshine Coast Conservation Association
We Are the SCCA
Who We Are
We're an association of individuals and groups dedicated to protecting the biodiversity and integrity of the Sunshine Coast for all time. Our work is carried out by a small paid team and dozens of volunteers.
Our Goals
We endeavour to conserve lands and marine areas – from Howe Sound to Bute Inlet – in their natural states and to protect ecological values and restore biodiversity throughout the Sunshine Coast Natural Resource District.
What We Do
We engage in research, educational outreach, and advocacy activities, holding decision makers to account and encouraging government to protect biodiversity and ecosystems. We also assist member groups with their objectives.
Latest News
Legal Victory for the Marbled Murrelet
This month, the SCCA is celebrating a legal victory that could help the threatened Marbled Murrelet - the bird shown in our logo.
Last fall, Ecojustice lawyers were in Federal Court to advocate for the protection of migratory birds and their habitats across Canada. They were acting on behalf of Sierra Club BC and Wilderness Committee.
These lawyers argued that a “protection statement” - issued by federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault in 2022 - too narrowly interpreted the Species at Risk Act, unlawfully limiting the minister's duties to protect at-risk bird habitat by protecting only the nests and not the wider habitat which the birds need to survive and recover.
Last week, the Chief Justice set aside the “protection statement” and sent it back to Minister Guilbeault for reconsideration with the Court’s reasons.
We hope this decision will result in the federal government taking timely action to protect critical habitat.
Land Covenants
Protecting Biodiversity
A conservation covenant is a voluntary, legal agreement between a landowner and a conservation organization where the landowner promises to protect ecological values on the land. Covenant agreements are attached to the property title and stay with the land forever, regardless of who owns it.
This allows property owners to secure natural values for biodiversity, natural asset management, and enjoyment of nature. Financial benefits may include tax receipts, reduced land value and property taxes. Conservation organizations agree to monitor the land and ensure that the intentions and objectives of a covenant are maintained.
As a registered Land Trust, the SCCA partners in holding and developing conservation covenants for Cliff Gilker Park, Mt Artaban Nature Reserve, Long Bay Nature Reserve and Brigade Bay Bluffs Nature Reserve on Gambier Island, Sandy Beach on Keats Island, Rainfrog Sanctuary in Roberts Creek and Gospel Rock in Gibsons.
Are you passionate about biodiversity?
Volunteer with Us!
There are many ways you can leave your mark.
Biodiversity Hero
Paul Harris Jones
Paul Harris Jones
Marbled Murrelet Protector
Paul Jones has had a special relationship with birds ever since his childhood days in India. He has been a leader in the local campaign to protect marbled murrelets.
In 1993 Paul's team discovered an active nest in the Caren Range, the oldest closed-canopy temperate rain forest in Canada. Further sightings led to the creation of Spipiyus Provincial Park. Spipiyus is the shíshálh name for the murrelets, which are revered in many coastal First Nations communities.
Old-growth logging, climate change and other factors continue to put the survival of the species at risk. Paul continues to advocate for the murrelets through a proposed Jervis Inlet Biosphere Conservation Area.
(Know a biodiversity hero who deserves to be recognized here? Contact us!)
Environmental All Candidates Forum
Attend our Environmental All Candidates Forum on October 6
Since 2011, the SCCA has provided all candidates engagement opportunities for Sunshine Coast voters to hear from candidates on environmental issues. This year we will be engaging candidates with written Q&A and hosting an in-person Environmental All Candidates Forum at the Roberts Creek Hall.
We strongly encourage all citizens to engage in the electoral process, to learn where your candidates stand on the critical issues facing our community, future generations, and all life on earth.
Attend our in-person Environmental All Candidates Forum on Sunday October 6th, to learn where the provincial candidates for 2024-2028 stand on environmental issues.
What YOU can do Today to Make a Difference
Volunteer for Virtual Phonebanking
Register to Vote!
Ensure you are registered to vote for the upcoming Provincial Election on October 19, 2024.
Give Feedback on the Federal Government's Ocean Noise Strategy before Oct 22!
The federal government’s proposed Ocean Noise Strategy, aimed at reducing the impact of underwater noise on marine life, is now open for public consultation until October 22.
This is your chance to call for stronger, immediate action to protect marine species like the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales, which rely on sound for survival.
Unfortunately, the current strategy lacks concrete measures and focuses more on data collection than taking urgent action. Canada already has the knowledge and legal tools to address underwater noise pollution, so it’s important that we act now.
West Coast Environmental Law have created a draft letter for you to sign on their website. Submit your feedback to Fisheries and Oceans Canada and make your voice heard before time runs out!
Support Local Conservation
Donations fund our research and advocacy activities.
We gratefully acknowledge support from
