Somenos Garry Oak Protected Area - Duncan, British Columbia, Canada - Public Access Lands on Waymarking.com

The Somenos Garry Oak Protected Area is a parcel of land that was acquired by BC Parks to preserve one of the few remaining deep soil Garry oak meadows in Canada. The only native species of oak in BC, the Garry oak and its associated meadows have become endangered through the loss of habitat caused by urbanization, invasion by other species, and the halting of regular fires that previously helped to renew the meadows. On Vancouver Island, more than 90% of the Garry oak meadows have been lost.

The Somenos Garry Oak Protected Area contains a large grove of Garry oaks (some very mature), as well as the grassy meadow typical of the Garry oak ecosystem. Some of the plants and animals that can be seen here include camas, shooting star, chocolate lily, white fawn lily, red columbine, yellow montane violet, western bluebird, and the endangered sharp-tailed snake.

The protected area was created through a partnership between BC Parks, the Nature Conservancy of Canada, and the Garry Oak Ecosystems Recovery Team.

There are a number of paths through the site. A wider trail runs around the perimeter of the site through Douglas fir trees on the north and west, while more narrow paths pass through the Garry oak meadow. There are several access points on the south and east side of the area. No bikes or motorized vehicles are allowed. Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash.

Estimated size of the public land (in regional measurement standard: hectares, acres, kms, etc.): 6.9 hectares Is there a trail system?: Yes If there is a trail system, please describe length, terrain, etc.: There's about 1.3 km of paths through the site, about half of which are 1-1.5 metres wide and the rest about 0.5 metres wide, all on level or slightly sloping terrain What points of interest are there?: Large Garry oak trees, views across Somenos Marsh to Duncan What activities are available?: Walking, bird-watching Hours of accessibility?: 24/7 List of known hazards (cliffs, snakes, poison plants, etc.): None Dogs Allowed?: Yes Is a permit/fee required?: No If a permit/fee is required please describe in detail how to get one, how much, etc.: Not listed Please supply the website of the land if available: Not listed

Visit Instructions:
Visitors are encouraged to supply a picture of either themselves or their GPS at the trailhead and/or signage of the public access lands - describe your experience there and what you saw - tell us why other folks should come visit!

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