Ministry of Environment Sensitive Ecosystems Inventories

Sunshine Coast SEI Home Page

The Sunshine Coast Sensitive Ecosystems Inventory (SEI) identifies rare and fragile terrestrial ecosystems along the coastal lowlands from Howe Sound to Desolation Sound (including adjacent islands).

The mild climate and long growing season of the Sunshine Coast support many rare plants, animals and plant communities - including several "at risk" species. However, rapid development along the coast is resulting in the fragmentation and degradation of terrestrial ecosystems. The SEI is a "flagging" tool that identifies sensitive ecosystems and provides scientific information and support to local governments and others who are trying to maintain biodiversity.

Environment Canada (Canadian Wildlife Service) and the B.C. Ministry of Sustainable Resource Management (MSRM) jointly managed this project. Major funding came from Environment Canada (Georgia Basin Ecosystem Initiative), BC Habitat Conservation Trust Fund, MSRM and the Sunshine Coast Regional District. The multi agency steering committee included the above agencies as well as B.C. Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection (WLAP), Sechelt Indian Band, Sliammon First Nation, Powell River Regional District, Comox-Strathcona Regional District and Terminal Forest Products.