The majestic Garry oaks at 4015 Braefoot Rd. in Saanich, British Columbia, are at critical risk. Over 100 of these magnificent trees, stand on the property; many have done so for centuries These trees are not just flora; they are vital keystone components of the living ecosystem, cultural heritage, and community identity.
Less than 5% of the Garry oak ecosystem remains. Western bluebirds, who depend on it, have been extirpated from the region since 1995. Other wildlife is also endangered. This area was once proposed by the District of Saanich to be part of a protected Greenbelt linking PKOLS/Mt. Doug to Christmas Hill/Swan Lake, Elk and Beaver Lakes and other areas of ecological importance. We should be wary of discarding conservation in our haste for development.
The development proposal is to build 24 townhomes on the former farm, densification, yes, but far from the low income housing that we so desperately need. Taking land out of the ALR, diminishing our already tenuous food security, is not wise or forward-thinking. The proposal will remove at least 68 of the Garry oaks. They are mostly mature trees (80+ yrs old). At least four have trunks measuring one metre or more in diameter, which Saanich classifies as “Exceptional Trees” due to their large canopies and the extensive ecosystem services they provide.
Similar oak groves in the area have been destroyed for construction in the recent past. There are few left.
The good news is that the developer, who owns the 4015 Braefoot property, has shown that he is not averse to the District making this site a park/space for the protection of Garry Oaks. That should be our ultimate goal, as this magnificent Garry oak grove is priceless. It could serve as a crucial node in the ecological greenbelt restoration, and serve as a key hub for educating the public about these priceless eco-systems.
Please sign this petition: https://www.change.org/p/save-the-mighty-braefoot-oaks
Vounteers are needed to inform the public and help rally support. Please contact Yves Parizeau, yparizeau@gmail.com to get involved.