Thank you to all who have provided input!

The French Creek Estuary Nature Preserve (FCENP) Management Plan is now finalized (October 2024).

The RDN will continue to work together with the BC Parks Foundation and local stewardship groups through next steps for plan implementation.

The Nature Preserve is located in the community of French Creek, just north of Parkville. It lies along the north side of the French Creek Estuary, at the corner of Island Highway 19 and Columbia Drive.

In 2022, the BC Parks Foundation and the Regional District of Nanaimo acquired 8.4 hectares of land from a developer. This property, along with the previously existing 0.84-hectare Columbia Drive Community Park, now forms the 9.22-hectare FCENP. The RDN manages the French Creek Estuary Nature Preserve (FCENP) through the Electoral Area G Community Parks function.

The French Creek Estuary Nature Preserve Management Plan outlines a vision for protecting ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity, and providing low-impact recreation opportunities. It focuses on prioritizing environmental preservation while allowing the community to experience the area's natural values. Developed in collaboration with local conservation and stewardship organizations, the plan includes clear goals, strategies, and actions to guide future management efforts.

Location

Community Engagement

The planning process is complete including community engagement.

The FINAL Management Plan and Appendices are available at the links below:

• Final FCENP Management Plan (November 2024)
• Appendicies Document (November 2024)
• Concept Plan

Input from the community provided valuable insights that informed the development, refinement, and finalization of the Plan. Engagement opportunities (now closed) included:

• Working Group – representatives from local conservation and stewardship groups
• Community Comment Form
• Open House (x1)