BC Nature Fall General Meeting, Hosted by Langley Field Naturalists

September 30, October 1, 2, 3

Field Trips Friday October 1^st 1 pm - 4 pm

West Creek Wetlands 

(Led by Sian & Rhys Krannitz, Sharon McVeigh, Anne Gosse, Max 30, Friday & Saturday)

West Creek Wetlands is a rare upland wetland and contains a number of rare or unique habitats in close proximity to each other. Its lands are connected by stream and forest corridors to the extensive forests of the nearby Glen Valley Bluffs, within a mile of the Fraser River. Its varied topography, Wood Duck Lake, riparian marsh-swamp, deciduous, riparian, coniferous and mixed forest types, along with the mainstem and a small tributary of salmon-bearing West Creek, create a great variety of habitats. These support an unusually high diversity of plants and animals and the existence of 22 blue- and red-listed species within its boundaries. Tours and visitors are allowed on West Creek Wetlands by special-use permit, along carefully chosen trails.

Aldergrove Lake / Gordons Brook 

(Led by Dr. M. Pearson, Annabel Griffiths, Anthea Farr , max 20, Friday only)

This is a short level walk along mown trails to visit and discuss the reclamation work underway on Pepin and Gordons Brooks and wetlands to enhance the habitat for Salish Suckers and Nooksack Dace.

Derby Bog 

(Led by Dr. D. Clements, Phil Henderson, Ted Goshulak, max 25, Friday only)

Trinity Western University has been conducting research on bog hydrology, water quality, bog restoration and invasive species. The bog is currently comprised of 96 ha (235 acres) out of an original 500 ha (1250 acres), with much of the former bog farmed for cranberries. The bog was mined for peat from 1958 to 1980, but is being monitored for signs of recovery and a decision on the next steps towards improving hydrology and other aspects of bog health, including removal of invasive species like non-native cranberries. TWU students and faculty involved in the project will lead a two hour field trip through parts of the bog, pointing out some of the unique features of the Langley Bog, explaining the results of recent research and plans for future research and restoration. Participants in the tour should wear clothing appropriate for the weather and waterproof footwear.

Mountain View Conservation and Breeding Centre Society 

(Led by Rhys Griffiths (Friday) and Sheila Puls (Saturday), max 30, cost $20 per person)

Mountain View is a dedicated Canadian non-profit society, whose mission is to save our Canadian wildlife from extinction by operating 'breeding and return' conservation programs for these rare & endangered wildlife species. Our goal is the eventual release of their offspring back into their natural habitats here in BC. This year, they are focusing on "Biodiversity" in BC, Canada and around the world, especially focusing on our Canadian "Red-listed" wildlife species that are facing extinction, including our BC Northern Spotted Owls, Oregon Spotted Frogs, and the Vancouver Island Marmots. Mountain View has been successfully operating these critical breeding and recovery programs for many years, receiving Conservation awards for the Owl and Marmot programs. This educational tour will start in their education centre and then will take a wagon ride around the facility. Suitable for those with walking difficulty.

Fraser River Boat Trip 

(Led by Tom Hamaoka, max 20, cost $69 each)

Join the adventure and rediscover the Mighty Fraser with Fraser River Safari. The fully enclosed and covered vessel is designed with passenger comfort and safety in mind. The Fraser River is the largest river in BC and one of the largest salmon producing river systems in the world. This incredible river is richly diverse in wildlife, history and culture and by sharing its story we hope to ensure it remains so for future generations to enjoy. We will see the new Golden Ears bridge from the river, and may be lucky enough to see the fishwheels if they are still in the river, collecting samples for the Pacific Salmon Commission. Wear suitable outdoor clothing (layered) and footwear (no high heels), bring your camera, binoculars & video and your sunglasses

Mountain View Crown Lands 

(Led by Bob Puls, Roy Yates, Al Grass, max 15

In early 2009 Langley Field Naturalists were asked to undertake a biodiversity study of approximately 155 acres (63 ha) of Crown land leased by the Mountain View Conservation Society. This was the site of a busy sawmill at the turn of the century, which came to an end around 1917-1920 as the result of a major forest fire. Since then the land has been left untouched and what can be seen now is the result of a century of uninhibited re-establishment of natural forest. Come and visit this area, walking some of the survey trails through the mixed forest and look for some of the 700+ species of flora and fauna so far identified. Trails are narrow, with a slight (30 ft / 10 metres) change in elevation. Good footwear is necessary, and covered legs are recommended as stinging nettles may be present. This field trip is not suitable for those who have difficulty walking.

Saturday October 2^nd 9 am - noon

Edge Farm Trail 

(Led by Anne Gosse, Joan Wilmshurst & Cecily Isler, Max 15, Saturday only)

An easy 4.6 km (2.75 miles) mossy-green, rain-forest walk alongside the mighty Fraser River to the site of BC’s first permanent settlement in 1828! As well, we will also pay a visit to Derby’s heritage Apple Days to sample a display of apples grown in south coastal BC, see a honey bee display, and a cider-making demonstration.

West Creek Wetlands 

(Led by Sian & Rhys Krannitz, Al Grass & Chester Murray, Max 30, Friday & Saturday)

See description above

Mountain View Crown Lands 

(Led by Bob Puls and Roy Yates, Saturday (& Friday if demand warrants), max 15)

See description above

Mountain View Conservation and Breeding Centre Society 

(Led by Rhys Griffiths (Friday) and Sheila Puls (Saturday), max 30, cost $20 per person)

See description above

Fraser River Boat Trip 

(Led by Tom Hamaoka, max 20, cost $69 each)

See description above

Sunday Farewell Outings, 9 am - noon

Ethnobotany & Healing Plants 

(Led by Karen Gabriel, Al & Jude Grass)

Karen Gabriel is a member of the Kwantlen First Nations, and this loop walk along the Little Campbell River will explore a local park with a chance to hear of the medicinal and nutritional uses of many of the local plant species which are present.

Raptor Ranch 

(Led by Sian Krannitz & Rhys Griffiths)

Gail Stanton worked as the supervisor at a Bird of Prey Rehabilitation Center for 5 years and she also started training with falconers which was beneficial for the release of babies back into the wild. She trained as a falconer and continued to build up the commercial bird control business after the retirement of the falconers and is now one of the leading Bird Control companies in BC. She has also been involved in the Wildlife Rehabilitation Network of BC as a board member, and the Center has become a wildlife network in its self. Gail currently studies Bird of Prey medicine , Veterinary, and Zoology. Due to her Bird of Prey knowledge and compassion, Raptor Ranch has become a last chance facility for challenged and complex cases.

Brae Island and Fort Langley 

(Led by Anne Gosse, Toots Tucker & Cecily Isler)

Fort Langley is the birthplace of British Columbia, and is a centre for history, art and museums. This field trip will consist of a nature walk on the easy trail of Brae Island in the Fraser River, followed by a walk around the village of Fort Langley, tailored to the interests of those participating.