Partnerships allow purchase of key lands

The Crawford Bay Regional Park features a beach, wetland and trail network. — Photo courtesy Columbia Basin Trust

The purpose of the Columbia Basin Trust is simple: we exist and act for the social, economic and environmental well-being of the Basin—now and for generations to come. The Basin area is home to countless natural and recreation opportunities in many environments and to protect areas like these, the Trust helps communities and organizations acquire key pieces of land.

In coordination with a private landowner, residents in Crawford Bay had developed a community park and conservation area. When the owner chose to sell the property, the Trust contributed $800,000 towards the purchase of the 69-hectare plot of land. With further financial contribution by the Regional District of Central Kootenay, the valuable beach and wetland property was able to be preserved.

“The purchase will provide a large, water-access recreational asset that the public will be able to enjoy,” said Stuart Horn, RDCK Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer.

The new Crawford Bay Regional Park includes three distinct riparian and wetland areas that are home to more than 90 bird species and many plant and wildlife species. The park provides habitat for several species at risk, including the Coeur d’Alene salamander, the blotched tiger salamander, western toad, painted turtle and great blue heron. Two creeks, the Crawford and Beaver, are located on the property and provide habitats for bull trout, kokanee and endangered white sturgeon.