Each week since June we've been carefully watering the Oregon grape, ferns, Nootka rose, Snowberry, and Salmonberry that were planted in the riparian area back in March.  We are careful not to let any treated "tap" water enter the creek, but volunteers soak the mulch and soil enough that the plants have a chance to get established this spring/summer.  We have also spent many hours pulling invasive thistles along the gravel path.  This area was disturbed in 2015 when the RDN upgraded the wastewater outfall at Morningside Drive.  The City then replanted both sides of the path and installed an irrigation system to support Maple trees, Salal, Oregon grape and ferns until they were established.  The irrigation system is no longer being used, and the native plants are being choked out by opportunistic weeds.    While we focus on the riparian area and salmon habitat, we recognize the importance of this park land as a corridor and habitat for many other animals.  This is one of many tasks we take on in this "adopted" park.

This was the third year grade 7 students from École Hammond Bay participated in a work party to give something back to this community park that has been a place to explore and appreciate nature during their time in elementary school.  Parents conceived this project as a way for students to be meaningfully involved in fundraising for Grade 7 year-end activities.  Each year students gather pledges for a couple of hours of work with the Walley Creek Streamkeepers, DFO and City of Nanaimo staff.  Extra funds are donated back to the Streamkeepers, who use the funds to help with our outreach and education activities.  Every year the young people have a chance to learn about the importance of native plants and trees to stabilize the stream banks and provide shade and habitat for fish, amphibians, invertebrates, and mammals that live along Walley Creek.  Then they participate in removing invasive species like Daphne, Himalayan blackberry, and ivy so that native plants and trees can flourish.  Their hard work and enthusiasm help us accomplish so much in this beautiful little City Park!