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
Rare Forest Protected on Gospel Rock
After more than 35 years of community, non-profit, and local government effort, 16.6 acres of rare and sensitive forests on "Gospel Rock” are now permanently protected.
PRESS RELEASE
The SCCA is pleased to announce the registration of a conservation covenant protecting one of the most spectacularly beautiful and ecologically sensitive places on the Sunshine Coast: Gospel Rock. Overlooking Atl’ka7tsem Howe Sound and the Salish Sea at the southwestern edge of the Town of Gibsons, the scenic bluff of Gospel Rock is home to the last stretch of natural waterfront in the municipality. Located within the unceded territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw, Gospel Rock is found within the Coastal Western Hemlock Biogeoclimatic Zone (CWHxm), one of the most highly disturbed groups of ecosystems in British Columbia.
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 taxation. Conservation organizations agree to monitor the land and ensure that the intentions and objectives of the covenant are maintained.
As a registered member of BC 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
Gertrude Pacific
Working Hard for Forest Protection
Sechelt Groves is a popular outdoor sanctuary on the Sunshine Coast. Residents and tourists enjoy walking its well-maintained and clearly marked trails, marvelling at enormous trees, appreciating the beauty of its rich flora, fauna, rock formations and seasonal streams.
The protection of natural areas is essential but rarely easy. It requires vision, courage and hard work. Many people have contributed to the development of Sechelt Groves. Gertrude Pacific got the ball rolling. Her dedication and creativity inspired others to become involved. But that is just one part of Gertrude’s remarkable story.
(Know a biodiversity hero who deserves to be recognized here? Contact us!)
In celebration of the United Nation's World Oceans Day, the SCCA is hosting our annual Oceans Day festival, in collaboration with Rhizome UP! Media and the Green Film Series. Sponsored by the District of Sechelt and the Sunshine Coast Credit Union.
Every year on June 8th, people all across the planet celebrate the many ways the world's ocean benefit our lives and become inspired to protect them.
SCCA Oceans Day festivals showcase and celebrate the incredible marine diversity in our local waters, raise awareness about threats to ocean health, and provide opportunities to engage in local conservation initiatives.
Building on the success of our 2021 Virtual Film Festival, we've created an exciting virtual + in-person program for 2022.
Visit our event website for more information on this years events including:
- Film screening at Ravens Cry Theatre
- Boots on the Beach – citizen science
- Inspiring 'NEMO TALKS'
- Feature films throughout the festival
- Recorded talks from last years event
- Short films from around the Salish Sea
- Calendar of conservation activities
What YOU can do Today to Make a Difference
Old-Growth Logging
The B.C. government is currently discussing additional old-growth logging deferrals. With only a fraction of old-growth forests with big, old trees remaining in B.C., it’s urgent you contact your MLA today to let them know how important it is to protect these endangered ecosystems.
Join a Climate Focus Group
Make a difference in climate messaging and campaigning by signing up to join a Climate Focus Group, held by West Coast Environmental Law.
CPAWS-BC Petition
CPAWS-BC has created a petition calling on the BC government to ensure that all “Protected and Conserved Areas” truly protect nature and biodiversity. Sign the Petition
Support Local Conservation
Donations fund our research and advocacy activities.
We gratefully acknowledge support from
