Dear Editor:
We were pleased to see the article profiling the Nature Conservancy of Canadas efforts to protect Marion Creek Benchlands on the west side of Columbia Lake (January 7th issue).
This conservation project has so many benefits for the local communities, in particular helping to maintain the natural features that draw so many of us here in the first place.
Beyond protecting the natural beauty of the valley, Marion Creek Benchlands provides key habitats for important native wildlife, such as badger, elk, and deer. Many native plants flourish there as well.
The Nature Conservancy of Canada is grateful for the enthusiasm and support so far expressed by the community for this project. We are pleased to say we have already raised more than $500,000 towards the $1.7 million needed to protect the property.
Nancy Newhouse
Program Manager,
Canadian Rocky Mountains Program
Nature Conservancy of Canada, B.C. Region