Response to online misinformation about SILT’s role and interest in the qathet Regional District Community Plan
SILT is concerned that misunderstanding and misinformation has recently circulated online and has snowballed, and that members of the community have both attributed inaccurate positions to SILT, and attributed a role and influence to SILT in the OCP process, and with the qRD, that SILT does not have.
We want to reassure the community, and our supporters, that what we see circulating about SILT online is false and does not reflect our actions, mission, or our advocacy.
Please click here to read a complete response from the SILT Board of Directors.
The Savary Island Community Plan Vision Survey is now open!
Complete the qathet Regional District online survey by October 31 to share what you value and imagine for Savary Island, as well as your thoughts on the current plan‘s vision and goals. The survey should take about 10-15 minutes to complete.
A message from the qathet regional planning department
Thank you to everyone who came out to our open house and the Farmer’s Market on August 26 & 27! A ‘what we heard’ report from these events is now available. This report summarizes the feedback we received and outlines next steps. Please click on the link below to view the report.
Community Engagement Outcomes: August 2024 In-Person Engagement
Couldn’t make the in-person events? We will be conducting an online survey October 17-31 that explores the same questions and themes. We will also be hosting several virtual engagements in November (dates TBD). Stay tuned for more details! - Cherise Roberts, Planner
ABOUT US
The Savary Island Land Trust (SILT) was established in 1997, with the goal of preserving the last undivided and undeveloped wilderness on Savary (DL1375).
What We’ve Accomplished
In 1997 there was no conservation land on Savary. Today, 43% of the island is protected. Look at the map of all conservation lands here.
NewsLetters
Read about SILT events, conservation milestones and community, as well as the natural history of Savary.
Take Action
Ready to take the next step? You can become a member, volunteer or donate to help preserve Savary Island now, and for future generations.
Resources For Visitors
The Savary Visitor’s Map is designed to provide useful information about how to enjoy the island sustainably.
Resources for Savary Islanders
Includes maps and information on: the Official Community Plan; how to connect with local government; best practices regarding building, groundwater, transportation, and tree-removal.
Natural History of Savary Island
Learn about the plants, animals and geological history of Savary here.
Our Story
In 1995 a group of concerned Savary Islanders joined together with the goal to save the Heart of Savary - the last undivided and undeveloped wilderness on Savary - from becoming a gated community development. They established the Savary Island Land Trust Society in 1997. In 1998 SILT became a charity and received its first gifts of land. Since that time, SILT has acquired 23 lots across the island and nearly 43% of Savary is protected. Our successes are rooted in the vision of our founders, and the commitment of our donors, members, artists and volunteers.
We never lost sight of our first goal: the Heart of Savary. It took 22 years and the efforts and generosity of many islanders, the Friends of Savary, and SILT to raise the funds for the Nature Trust of BC to acquire the land for conservation in 2018. Thanks to each and everyone who helped and contributed to this community achievement.
Savary is the most ecologically rare and has the highest density of subdivision of any of the islands in the Salish Sea. Protecting wetlands, dunes, forests, meadows, springs and groundwater remain critical to the biodiversity and sustainability of the Island. In 2019, the Savary Island Nature Legacy Fund for land conservation was established with a gift from the Armstrong Family Foundation. Since that time, it has grown to $75,000. To donate click here.
To celebrate 25 years of SILT in 2022, we set up the the Savary Island Sustainability Fund. A donation to this fund will help SILT continue to protect nature on Savary, and offer stewardship education and activities to nurture a sense of place and connection for Savary Islanders now and into the future. To donate, please click here.
