|
|
|
B.C. Frogwatch Program
The Puddle Project
South Okanagan Puddle Project - The Puddle Project is a community-based
conservation project focusing on conservation of small wetlands (puddles) in
British Columbia's South Okanagan and Similkameen River Valleys.
South Okanagan and Lower
Similkameen regions encompass very diverse habitats that support unique species,
many of which are found nowhere else in BC or Canada. This area of BC is
distinct; it is Canada’s only true desert. In this semi-arid climate, wetland
and riparian habitats are cornerstones in maintaining plant and animal biodiversity.
Wetlands provide valuable
functions, values and benefits to both people and wildlife. The role of large
wetlands as a vital component of the landscape has been acknowledged;
however, small wetlands and their significance have often failed to be
appreciated. The Puddle Project focuses on conserving these small wetlands,
which exist
primarily on private lands.
Per hectare, small wetlands
are more productive than larger ones. Since small wetlands have relatively
larger edge and shallow areas, they have two or three times as many waterfowl
per unit area. In addition, species at risk such as the Tiger Salamander (Ambystoma
tigrinum), the Great Basin Spadefoot (Spea intermontana), and
the Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta belli) depend on small wetlands.
At present, with only approximately
15% of wetland and riparian habitats remaining in the South Okanagan-Similkameen,
wetlands face increased rarity due to impacts and loss from grazing, invasive
weeds, draining, filling, or land development.
The objectives of The Puddle Project include:- Assessment and classification of identified priority wetlands;
- Visits to landowners who have priority wetlands;
- Education of the public through community monitoring (such as BC FROGWATCH)
and school programs;
- Co-operating with private landowners on stewardship activities on their
lands
Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) through The Puddle Project aims to work with
private landowners to improve their wetland habitats through livestock fencing,
stock watering, and habitat restoration initiatives.
By focusing on a stewardship approach and actively involving the community
in the Puddle Project, DUC hopes to ensure the survival of these small
wetlands and the unique species
that call these puddles in South Okanagan-Similkameen River
valleys home.
The Puddle Project is a South Okanagan-Similkameen Conservation Program
(SOSCP) partnership between Ducks Unlimited Canada, Environment Canada,
the Ministry
of Environment, The Land Conservancy of BC and The Nature
Trust of BC.
Contact: Wendy Schebel, BSc.,
Puddle Project Coordinator
w_schebel@ducks.ca
Ph (250) 490-8246
|
|
