French Creek Estuary Nature Preserve – Restoration Projects

One of priority actions from the French Creek Estuary Nature Preserve management plan is the closure and restoration of unauthorized trails -- routes that were not formally planned or designed for long-term environmental sustainability.

We recognize that many of these trails are well-used and valued by the community, and that changes to access may be disappointing. These decisions were not made lightly. They are based on ecological assessments that identified areas where continued use is contributing to environmental degradation and disturbance to wildlife.

Why Are Some Trails Closing?

Unauthorized trails can have significant impacts on sensitive ecosystems. In some areas of the Nature Preserve, these trails:

• Pass through environmentally sensitive habitats
• Disturb wildlife, particularly during nesting and breeding periods
• Contribute to soil erosion and vegetation loss
• Fragment habitat and reduce ecological connectivity
• Increase the spread of invasive plant species

By concentrating use onto a well-designed and sustainably maintained trail network, we can better protect these natural systems while continuing to provide meaningful recreational opportunities and ensure the Nature Preserve continues to be accessible and enjoyable for the community.

The authorized trail network is designed to:

• Provide access to key areas and natural features
• Offer a safer and more sustainable trail experience
• Reduce environmental impacts while maintaining recreational opportunities

Where possible, rerouted trails will continue to connect visitors to valued viewpoints and destinations.

What Is Changing?

In the late summer/fall 2026, selected unauthorized trails within the Nature Preserve will be:

• Closed and restored to natural habitat, or
• Rerouted to align with the approved trail network

Closed trails will be clearly marked with signage and may be blocked with split-rail fencing or natural barriers to support restoration efforts.

Restoration work is underway at the French Creek Estuary Nature Preserve to enhance ecological health and biodiversity near the Admiral Tryon Boulevard entrance and parking area.

In February and March 2026, invasive Himalayan blackberry and English ivy were successfully removed from this site, helping to reduce competition for native plants and improve habitat conditions. The cleared area has since been mulched to suppress regrowth and will be closely monitored over the coming seasons by volunteers for invasive species re-emergence.

A native planting phase is planned for Fall 2027, which will reintroduce native species and support long-term ecosystem resilience. This project is an important step in restoring the natural integrity of the estuary and ensuring a healthier landscape for wildlife and the community to enjoy.

A restoration project is underway in the French Creek Estuary Nature Preserve to help restore the pond area and support local wildlife.

Over time, human activity has removed natural vegetation, leaving the land dry, eroded and vulnerable to invasive species. Without plants to hold the soil, shade the water and provide habitat, the freshwater pond and surrounding field have struggled to support healthy ecosystems.

A team of local volunteers and environmental groups secured a grant to re-slope the pond and plant native trees, shrubs and wildflowers across a 200m² area. The plants have been carefully selected for our local climate and soil conditions - including areas near the pond that flood seasonally and areas upland that stay dry most of the year. Once established these plants will help prevent erosion, create better conditions for fish and amphibians, and provide food and shelter for birds, insects and small animals. These positive impacts will support biodiversity and help the ecosystem recover from the impacts of previous human-caused disruption.

This planting project will include over 90 native species, such as black cottonwood, red alder, Pacific willow, hardhack, red-osier dogwood and wildflowers like fireweed, yarrow and nodding onion. These plants will be put in by hand, using a special soil mix to improve moisture and nutrients. Seeds will also be spread to encourage natural growth in the coming seasons.

A temporary fence will be installed around the area to protect the plants while the establish in the area. This will help keep out deer, rabbits, and beavers. It will also prevent park users from accidentally disturbing the site. Signs will be posted to explain the project and ask visitors to stay outside of the planting area.

This restoration project is being led by Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region Research Institute in partnership with Arrowsmith Naturalists, Save Estuary Land Society, Friends of French Creek Conservation Society and the Mid Vancouver Island Habitat Enhancement Society, with support from the Regional District of Nanaimo and the BC Parks Foundation. Together, these groups are bringing local knowledge, volunteer power and environmental expertise to help this area thrive again.

Construction Work

Part of the Trailhead Himalayan Blackberry and English Ivy Removal Project requires heavy machinery to assist in invasive species removal. Heavy machinery will be accessing the park to complete this stage of the project.

Park User Access and Safety

A number of trails have been closed to secure the construction site and protect park user safety while there is heavy machinery accessing the park. Signage and trail closures will remain in place until the construction work has finished. Please stay on the designated trails, keep your dogs on leash and walk your bike.