Wetlandkeepers

Since this watershed has very gradual elevation change, there are several important wetlands associated with Walley Creek.  In the past this land was considered poor for development, or at least costly to develop.   With increased development pressure in Nanaimo, and the north end in particular, we are worried that the integrity of the wetlands could be compromised.  They are important buffers during significant rain storms, and provide slow release of ground water over dry summer months.  In addition, their ecological value as habitat for plants and animals, plus the benefit to human health of green space and fresh air is beyond measure.

Our group came together partly over a development on Hammond Bay Road north of Entwhistle Drive that was allowed to encroach on the wetland at the headwaters of Walley Creek, where the picture above was taken in June 2016.

The Nanaimo & Area Land Trust hosted Wetlandkeepers training on June 13, 2021 and part of the workshop was held in the marsh behind Piper's Pub in the Walley Creek watershed.  The reason the water is so high right now is the activity of a busy beaver damming the flow!  We were concerned to notice flagging tape in this area noting the high water mark, and have since seen the property put up for sale.   The blue polygons on the map below represent wetlands in the Walley Creek watershed.  The City of Nanaimo outlines its watercourse protection measures here.  

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