Fernridge Nature Park taking shape

LCWS has been involved in turning a former gravel pit adjacent to the Tata'lu  into natural park that is important for groundwater recharge and biodiversity on the river. We lobbied for a community park for two decades and it has happened. Big Win! Our board is involved with designing the park for people and wildlife. Here are some articles about this positive step: 

Langley’s new wetland park closer to completion | Langley Advance Times https://share.google/HGRUxSLJLLTrhHnLj

Fraser Valley Current https://fvcurrent.com/p/langley-fernridge-nature-park

From Langley's 'wasteland' to nature park https://share.google/wTgUkLGHDwZ5GKTzP

And an editorial from the Langley Field Naturalists:

Dear Editor,

[Re: Langley new wetland park closer to completion, langleyadvancetimes, May 29] 

Letter to Township mayor and council

On behalf of the Langley Field Naturalists, we want to join other conservation groups to applaud what the Department of Engineering has done to transform most of Horne Pit to become Fernridge Nature Park.

When the Township of Langley began development at Horne Pit, many groups, including our own, were concerned if the sensitive wetlands would be disturbed. We were concerned about loss of habitat that many species depend upon. Also, this wetland sits near the mainstem of the Little Campbell River, and we were fearful that development would negatively impact the river.

Today, we are very happy to see that this was not the case, and we are encouraged at what has been done to preserve and protect this area and its inhabitants. Indeed, this new park has the potential to become a jewel in a crown of Langley’s beautiful natural areas.

Our group works closely with many conservation groups including the Little Campbell

Watershed Society. We regularly participate in various bioblitzes in many areas in our

community. Last year’s bioblitz found 360 species (plants, insects wildlife), including 84 birds.

This is encouraging news and a testament to what your department has done to carry out the work to preserve and protect our natural environment.

In closing, please pass along our compliments and our thanks to those responsible for turning Horne Pit into Fernridge Nature Park, a welcome addition on Langley’s natural landscape.

Lilianne Fuller, Langley Field Naturalists public relations chair