The Elphinstone Community is committed to preserving our only remaining natural forest – DL 1313 – also known as Reed Road Forest. This much-loved 48 ha nature treasure trove, which falls within the Squamish Nation’s traditional territory, is used by hikers, dog walkers and nature lovers alike and features gigantic Douglas fir trees and a diverse mix of native deciduous and coniferous trees, an undergrowth of ferns, salal, Oregon grape and many varieties of mushrooms. Following the 1904 fire that swept through the whole area, 1313 naturally regenerated and is a true wildlife refuge surrounded as it is by clearcuts, industrial and residential uses.
This small but important forest was identified in the Elphinstone Official Community Plan as a park and listed as a watershed reserve. Several small streams tumbling down Elphinstone Mountain cross 1313, including two that flow on to form Chaster Creek, a fish-bearing stream. Others give rise to two other significant creeks along with ravines, which carve their way to the Ocean Beach esplanade. Adjacent residents are troubled by the effect logging could have on their wells, and given the steepness of the slope, justifiably concerned about erosion, from which the existing forest offers important protection.
Residents have been busy writing to ministers and BC Timber Sales, urging them to protect this intact forest, representative of what used to cover the whole area. A delegation visited MLA Nicholas Simons to discuss the many reasons for preserving it. Elphinstone Logging Focus (ELF) has also campaigned to save this pristine forest and recently commissioned forest ecologist Allen Banner to study a forest in Roberts Creek and included Reed Road Forest. With the report expected soon, a committee met to organize a fundraising dinner at a home next to the forest – coincidentally the final residence of important Elphinstone couple, Frank and Maryanne West.
With so little left of such low-elevation, easily-accessed original forest, it needs to be preserved as a legacy from the past, to be appreciated by generations to come. The next walk in 1313 is being organized for 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 16; gather at the end of Reed Road where the chain across the road on the right prevents vehicle access. Good walking shoes are recommended – all are welcome. If you have Elphinstone news to report, let me know at [email protected] before 5 p.m. on Sunday.
