As of today, the Puntledge Forest is officially protected by Comox Valley Land Trust.
The Trust began their conservation campaign when the forest was at risk of logging in 2023.
They started by getting timber reservation, with the campaign’s goal being to protect the 100-hectare forest.
With the final 37 hectares bought on Valentines Day, the Trust says their campaign succeeded.
Trust board member David Stapley says this achievement shows what can be done with community support.
“Our target was to raise 80% of the cost through grants, with the hope the community would contribute the rest,” said Stapley.
“The response was amazing!”
They say during this campaign, they raised almost $500,000 since last summer, with $1.5 million donated from four agencies and foundations, $400,000 from BC Hydro, $350,000 from the federal government, $200,000 from the Sitka Foundation, and $700,000 from BC Parks Foundation.
The organization adds several forest angels pledged to double-match donations between October and the end of the year, resulting in many community members donating.
K’omoks First Nation Elected Chief Councillor Nicole Rempel says with the forest protected, they hope it can help protect the fish habitat, and protecting the pockets of high-value ecosystems.
The Trust thanks all supporters for this initiative.
