Private Land Protection
The SCCA is dedicated to preserving the diverse landscapes, water bodies, and wildlife of the region to ensure that biodiversity thrives on the Sunshine Coast for all species and future generations.
As the impacts of climate change become more pronounced, vulnerable ecosystems face increasing pressure, highlighting the urgent need to protect sensitive areas and private lands.
It is essential to understand the differences between public and private land protection, as each faces unique challenges.
Private land conservation is particularly complex due to various competing interests, including demands for development, housing needs, and changing land-use practices.
The question arises: how can we balance urgent housing needs with the critical need to protect ecological values in a warming world?
The SCCA employs a three-pronged approach to address this question.
Sunshine Coast Green Bylaws
The Sunshine Coast Green Bylaws campaign aims to enhance environmental protection and sustainable development on the lower Sunshine Coast through a holistic 'Green Bylaws' approach.
In response to growing concerns about land clearing in the region, the Sunshine Coast Conservation Association (SCCA) joined forces with the Halfmoon Bay Community Development Forum and enlisted the help of the University of Victoria Environmental Law Centre in 2022 to tackle this complex issue.
Together, we developed the report "Green Bylaws for the Sunshine Coast."
The report outlines five key recommendations for prioritizing ecosystem connectivity, establishing long-term policies, and improving environmental assessment procedures.
This initiative seeks to support local governments in addressing complex problems with clear solutions and to empower community members to help shape policies that balance growth with environmental protection.
Land Trusts and Covenants
“Land Trusts are non-profit, charitable organizations committed to the long-term protection of natural and/or cultural heritage of lands. A land trust may own land itself, or it may enter into conservation covenants with property owners to protect or restore natural or heritage features on the owner’s land.” Land Trust Alliance BC
In 2006, the SCCA began exploring the possibility of becoming a “Land Trust.” The board and our Executive Director at the time believed that this could be an excellent opportunity to align the community's desire to protect significant private lands with our mission of biodiversity conservation. We collaborated with the Land Trust Alliance of BC for guidance in registering as a land trust organization. By 2008, we obtained the authority to hold conservation covenants under Section 219 of the Land Titles Act. The SCCA now holds five private land covenants in partnership with local governments, and The Land Conservancy of BC (TLC).
Updates on Private Land Protection
Part Two: The Future of Sechelt OCP Process
Back in February, we invited our community to attend the first public workshop for the District of Sechelt’s Official Community Plan (OCP) update—a chance to help shape how Sechelt grows, protects nature, and responds to climate change. If you missed that post, you can read it here: The Future of Sechelt: Your Opportunity to Shape […]
Help Shape Gibsons’ Urban Forest Plan
The Town of Gibsons has released its first-ever Urban Forest Plan to protect and expand the tree canopy within the Town. It is currently collecting public feedback through a community survey until March 18. This is your chance to help ensure that bold, science-based solutions guide the future of Gibsons’ forests. Why Does This Matter? […]
Strengthening Local Authority: How the Sunshine Coast Can Take Charge of Land Use Decisions
For too long, a common misconception has restricted local government’s ability to protect the environment and manage responsible development. Many elected officials on the Sunshine Coast—and throughout British Columbia—believe that regional districts have limited control over significant land use decisions because the BC Ministry of Transportation and Transit (MoTT) has authority over subdivision approval. However, this belief […]
Let’s Talk Green Bylaws in Átl’ḵa7tsem West Howe Sound!
Are you a West Howe Sound resident passionate about protecting our region’s natural beauty and biodiversity? Join us for an important West Howe Sound Community Association (WHSCA) Meeting on Thursday, February 13th, from 7:00 to 8:15 PM at Eric Cardinall Hall. The Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD), the Town of Gibsons, and the District of […]
The Future of Sechelt: Your Opportunity to Shape the OCP
The District of Sechelt is embarking on a much-needed update to its Official Community Plan (OCP), a guiding document that will shape land use and development for years to come. This OCP renewal is an exciting opportunity for residents to share their vision and ensure that Sechelt grows sustainably, resiliently, and in accordance with community […]
Celebrating protection of Sandy Beach Nature Reserve on Lheḵ’tines/ ́ Keats Island
On September 13, 2023, the SCCA, Islands Trust Conservancy, The Land Conservancy of BC, and other partner organizations, celebrated a huge conservation win – the creation of Hoak-pus/Sandy Beach Nature Reserve on Keats Island.