Sunshine Coast Conservation Association
We Are the SCCA
Our Goals
We endeavour to protect lands and waters – from Howe Sound to Bute Inlet – in their natural states. To conserve and restore biodiversity throughout the Sunshine Coast Natural Resource District.
Who We Are
We're an association of individuals and groups dedicated to protecting biodiversity on the Sunshine Coast for all time. Our work is carried out by a small paid team and dozens of volunteers.
What We Do
We develop and lead transformative conservation campaigns to protect watersheds, ecosystems, and species through research, education, alliance building, and advocacy. We support and empower community members, partner groups, and allies, and hold decision-makers accountable.
What's New?
Upcoming Federal Election
On April 28, 2025, Canadians will head to the polls in a federal election that will define our future. This is a critical moment for climate and ecological justice in Canada.
Find out what’s at stake, where local candidates stand, and how you can take action before election day.
Federal Election Candidates Meeting
We would like to extend our gratitude to the candidates who participated, the community members who attended and asked thoughtful questions, and the volunteers and staff who supported this important event.
A written summary and the YouTube recording have been shared on our 2025 Federal Election page.
Make a Difference Today!
Help Protect Our Bats
Bats play a vital role in our ecosystems — and they’re under threat. While white-nose syndrome hasn’t been detected in BC bats yet, the fungus that causes it is here.
Help track the spread: report any dead bats or unusual winter bat activity before May 31st.
Advance Voting Starts April 18
Advance voting is open from April 18–21. This election is a defining moment for climate and ecological justice in Canada. Early voting is a convenient way to make your voice heard and avoid the crowds on election day.
Not sure where or when to vote, or who’s running? Our blog post breaks down where, when, and how to vote so you’re ready to head to the polls.
Support Local Conservation
Donations fund our research and advocacy activities.
2025 Ocean Festival
Sunshine Coast Ocean Festival
In celebration of United Nations World Ocean Day, the Sunshine Coast Conservation Association is thrilled to announce our 6th annual Sunshine Coast Ocean Festival in collaboration with RhizomeUP! Media.
This year, the festival will run from June 1 to June 8, 2025, offering a week-long celebration of the ocean’s beauty, diversity, and vital connection to all life on Earth. Whether you’re a lifelong ocean lover or curious to learn more, we invite you to join us!
For updates on the festival in the lead-up to World Ocean Day make sure you’re signed up for our emails.
Biodiversity Hero
Pat Demeester
Native Trout Advocate
Pat has been a tireless advocate for the vulnerable coastal cutthroat trout, a blue-listed species that serves as an indicator of marine ecosystem health.
For over twenty years, Pat documented violations at the Lois Lake fish farm, where escaped genetically modified fish threatened the native trout population. His persistence led to the farm's closure and a landmark court victory in 2024.
Today, Pat continues his work protecting wild trout and char populations from Jervis Inlet to Phillips Arm, while contributing to vital research and local fishing regulations.
(Know a biodiversity hero who deserves to be recognized here? Contact us!)
Private Land Protection
Protecting Biodiversity on the Sunshine Coast
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.
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.
We gratefully acknowledge support from
