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?
Protecting the Environment with OCPs
The Official Community Plans (OCP) for the lower Sunshine Coast are currently in the process of being updated. OCP’s are visionary bylaws used by local governments as the basis for future land use decisions.
Make sure you sign up for the SCCA newsletter as we will be sharing updates on the OCP renewal process over the coming months.
Meet our Volunteer – Maggie Kalve-Guzzi
Maggie Kalve-Guzzi is a passionate advocate for nature and an invaluable SCCA volunteer. From hands-on conservation efforts to environmental education, she’s making a real difference on the Sunshine Coast. Read our latest blog post to learn about Maggie’s journey and the impact of her work!
Make a Difference Today!
Protect Gibsons’ Urban Forest
The Town of Gibsons has released its Urban Forest Plan, and they want your input. The plan outlines key actions to protect and expand the town’s tree canopy, but stronger commitments are needed.
Learn more in our latest blog post, then complete the survey before March 25 to make your voice heard.
Take Action for World Water Day
From the taps in our homes to the rivers that sustain our communities, fresh water fuels everything we value—our health, our food, our economy, and our future.
This World Water Day, let’s celebrate and defend BC’s most precious resource.
Tell the province: Defend BC’s freshwater!
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
