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 Local
Government
Currently, Section 34(b) of the BC Wildlife Act
extends year-round protection to a select group of birds' nests that
include those of bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons. For
other bird species, the federal Migratory Birds Convention Act and
provincial Wildlife Act protect nests only when they are occupied by
adult birds, their young, and/or eggs.
However, there is very little legislation that
protects the actual wildlife habitat especially on private land [Demarchi
& Bentley, 2004]. “In the Okanagan, southern Vancouver Island and
the lower mainland, where our most endangered ecosystems are
located, a large percentage of critical habitat is on private land [Sandborn]”.
Often seen are properties with a single nest
tree remaining because the nest is protected under the Wildlife Act.
If there is no other legislation pertaining to the buffer area
surrounding the tree (and often there isn't), then clearing can
occur right up to the base of the tree and subsequent developments
can be built. Due to this development, the health of the tree is
often compromised by hydrology alteration and root damage.
Eventually, the landowner becomes concerned about the huge tree
falling on adjacent buildings and applies for the nest tree to be
removed. Often, the application is successful because the tree has
become a human safety issue.
WiTS is working with local governments
concerning wildlife trees and community planning. Through the
Local Government Act, local governments can write legislation to
protect buffer areas around wildlife trees. WiTS is offering to
share data on known wildlife nest trees and currently shares data
with the following local governments: District of Campbell River;
Regional District of Comox-Strathcona; Regional District of
Nanaimo; City of Nanaimo; Cowichan Valley Regional District;
Islands Trust; District of Saanich; District of Central Saanich;
District of North Saanich; and working towards data sharing
agreements with the District of North Cowichan; District of
Metchosin; Town of Ladysmith; and City of Surrey.
Contact one of our
regional representatives for more information on
what local governments can do to protect wildlife trees.
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