Mapping complete
Do you know which are the fragile and rare ecosystems
in your neighbourhood?
Thanks to the Sensitive Ecosystems Inventory (SEI),
sensitive ecosystems throughout the east coast of Vancouver
Island and adjacent Gulf Islands have now been identified
and mapped.
This area is a unique ecological region, but is one
of two areas in B.C. experiencing rapid fragmentation
and loss of natural ecosystems. In 1993, a joint project
of Environment
Canada (Canadian Wildlife Service) and the B.C. Ministry
of Environment, Lands and Parks (Conservation Data Centre
and Vancouver Island Regional Office) began to inventory
the remaining sensitive ecosystems.
TIP: Check the number of the polygon on the yellow chart
on the right-hand side of the map sheet. If the polygon
number has a * beside it, additional information from
field checks is available. Contact the Conservation Data
Centre for further information (see page 4). |
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A “sensitive” ecosystem
is one which is fragile and/or rare |
Seven key “sensitive ecosystem” types were identified
(see next page). Second growth forests and seasonally flooded
fields were also mapped, as they provide significant wildlife
habitat. Using aerial photography and selective field checks,
researchers systematically identified and mapped 7,388 sites,
shown as coloured areas on the SEI maps. Sixty-six map sheets
have been produced at a 1:20,000 scale.
By flagging areas of ecological significance, the maps identify
areas where more information will be needed for decision-making.
For example, if a development proposal includes an identified
SEI site, the developer could be asked to provide additional
ecological information on that site. The Ministry of Environment,
Lands and Parks can provide a list of consultants who could
perform this type of field check.
Copies of the maps are being distributed free of charge
to all local governments within the study area. (To purchase
copies, see page 4).
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