Ginty’s Pond: Wetlandkeepers Course – Report
By: SILT Admin
Comments: 0
by Kasey Moran…
Event Overview
Wetlandkeepers Courses are delivered by BCWF and cover a standard set of skills related to wetland classification, plant identification, and soil analyses. For more information, see their website:
https://bcwf.bc.ca/wetlandkeepers-courses/
In addition to the standard Wetlandkeepers Course content, this event involved an in-depth community-based conversation about Ginty’s Pond. Many Cawston (and area) residents recounted memories of the pond when it would have been classified as a shallow open-water wetland, rather than the cattail marsh that exists today. Some community members expressed a concern for the pond’s current appearance, and expressed a desire to restore it to its former state to facilitate recreational uses like ice skating and boating. SILT’s executive director, Al Peatt, expressed his understanding that a 7:3 ratio of open water to emergent vegetation would optimize habitat value for wildlife.
Vulcan Consulting Supports SILT Mandate
Pictured above is Peter Nazaroff from Vulcan Consulting presenting a cheque for $2,000 to SILT President, Ross Everatt.
Mr. Nazaroff wanted to support SILT’s efforts to protect and secure conservation lands and also appreciated the fact that SILT’s Board of Directors are 100% volunteer.
Ginty’s Pond Gets New Sign
Volunteer President Ross Everatt has installed a replacement sign at SILT’s Ginty’s Pond at Cawston. The pond is valuable habitat for waterfowl, songbirds, painted turtle and other wildlife. The pond has also been a community gathering place, such as for ice-skating parties in winter. Ginty Cawston was a son of a local pioneer and owned the property; his family wanted the pond preserved in honour of Ginty’s love of nature and community. SILT acquired the property in 1991.
Last week, the BC Wildlife Federation Wetlands Team hosted a 2-day Wetlandkeepers community workshop focussed on Ginty’s Pond. SILT appreciates the support and interest of the community in keeping the pond productive and enjoyable — for all living things!
SILT to Monitor Injured Bobcat
A young bobcat treated at the Kamloops Wildlife Park after she was hit by a car at Gallagher Lake was released near there on June 29. SILT radio-collared and ear-tagged the injured bobcat so that its adjustment back to the wild can be monitored. Knowing how this cat re-adapts to being wild, and where it chooses to go, will help SILT identify and acquire land that can remain as habitat for bobcat and other living things for all time. SILT collared several other bobcats in the area last winter as part of an ongoing research study.
Please report tagged bobcat! Call or text Ross Everatt at (250) 499-9840