The K’omoks Estuary holds immense ecological value for resident and migrating wildlife, and is of vital significance for K’omoks First Nation. Since 2013, research during spring low tides has found numbers of eagles and herons feeding in the estuary. On May 28th at Royston Seaside Trail, two youth from the Youth and Ecological Restoration Program (YER) will lead a public tour about the eagle and heron surveys.
In 2013 and 2014 YER partnered with Mountainaire Avian Rescue Society (MARS) to document herons and their foraging behaviour in the Comox Valley. Youth conducted observations in the K’omoks Estuary from Royston Seaside Trail to learn about the estuary as a feeding area for herons and other species. YER continued this research in 2015 and 2016.
For 2017, this YER, Phase II project is possible with funding from Ministry of Children and Family Development and Comox Valley Regional District. Two YER, Phase I graduates, the YER coordinator and a biologist will collect scientific data on eagles and herons in the estuary. YERII youth focus on a specific project to advance learning about ecological information, research techniques, and collaboration and communication skills.
Please join us for this youth led public tour on May 28th at 1:00 pm. Royston Seaside Trail is located south of Courtenay, turn left onto Hilton Road and drive down to the parking area at the beach. FMI contact Wendy Kotilla at wkotilla@shaw.ca or 250-336-8487.