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
Sunshine Coast
State of Local Emergency
Clowhom Lake Fire
On August 29, 2023, a fire was discovered near Clowhom Lake. As of September 18, 2023, the fire has grown to the size of 411 hectares.
On September 15th, the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) board chair Leonard Lee declared a state of local emergency. There are currently 7 properties in the surrounding area that are on evacuation order; however, only one structure is affected. The evacuation order was made by the SCRD Emergency Operations Center (EOC), as advised by the BCWS.
According to a Coast Reporter article, the main area affected by the evacuation order is around the BC Hydro Dam and an independent power project – the BCWS has been in constant communication with those involved.
Rob Michael, EOC Director, states that “the general population of the Sunshine Coast is not at risk at this time”.
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!)
You can Help
Humpback Whales.
Report your Sightings.
Humpback whale populations were dramatically reduced by whaling practices (ending in 1967) and pollution off of the West Coast.
In recent years, humpback whales in coastal BC have made a comeback; in 2022, over 396 individual humpback whales were recorded, the highest number documented in the past century.
The Sunshine Coast Conservation Association would like to support the acquisition of scientific information regarding humpback whale numbers to support local governments in making informed conservation practices, and to support literature on the success of humpback whale returns.
What YOU can do Today to Make a Difference
Attend the Global Climate Strike!
Friday Sept 15, 2023
On September 15, 2023, marches and rallies will be held around the world to urge leaders to take action against climate change.
After a devastating year of floods, fires, droughts and ocean heat waves in Canada, it's more urgent than ever that our governments take meaningful action against climate change. It's time they listened to the concerns of Canadians rather than corporate lobbyists. Let's send them a message, with more than a million Canadians marching.
This Friday, join with others to advocate for life on this planet. The world needs your voice!
Sunshine Coast Event
3:30 - 4:30 (and perhaps later)
Along the highway in Davis Bay
Vancouver Event
12:00 noon
Vancouver City Hall
(followed by a march across Cambie St bridge)
Support Local Conservation
Donations fund our research and advocacy activities.
We gratefully acknowledge support from
