The first step in protecting the Texada lands was announced Feb. 3 at the community meeting in Ganges. The Salt Spring Appeal's Mayday Campaign goal is $500,000 by May 1st, 2000. This amount, in conjunction with expected Capital Regional District, NSS Water District, and other agencies' commitments, will buy time in protecting some of the most critical areas, including a key part of the Maxwell Lake watershed, the Garry oak woodlands, and part of the Douglas-fir forest.

Donations and pledges are being received by TLC-The Land Conservancy of BC. TLC is spearheading the land acquisition and protection effort, supported by the Salt Spring Island Conservancy, the Waterbird Watch Collective, the Water Preservation Society, the Island Salmon Enhancement Society, Island Pathways, Island Natural Growers, and the newly-formed sustainable community forest group.

The land protection objectives include the establishment of sustainable community forests and organic farm trusts-working landscapes that contribute to the island economy and enhance Salt Spring's tourist appeal.

A series of fundraising events are planned, including a healing fair at Fulford Hall on February 13 and a concert at Artspring on February 18. TLC has already received about $140,000 in donations and pledges, leaving $360,000 to be raised in just under three months.

Overhead costs associated with the campaign, including costs of appraisals, have been covered, so all donations and pledges go directly for land protection. Pledge forms are available at etcetera or may be downloaded here.

Donors may choose, if they wish, to allocate their funds to the area they choose, e.g. Garry oaks, or Maxwell Lake watershed. Tax receipts are issued for all donations.

For more information contact Elizabeth White, Salt Spring Appeal fundraising coordinator.