EcoWATCH
The PSPS EcoWATCH Program is our Skilled-Volunteer Citizen Science program, which provides specialized training for data collection, leadership and sensitive ecosystem management. This program is especially designed for those who are interested in applying knowledge that they have or committing to learn new skills or develop a new interest.
INVASIVE PLANT MAPPING
What: Teams of 4-5 use GPS devices and android tablets to map the spread of invasive plants along the park trail. This data is used to prioritize sites for stewardship projects and invasive plant management. You can preview the Mapping Training Manual for more information.
Where: The teams often meet at the PSPS Citizen Science Office at the Park Centre 4915 West 16th Avenue, but the meeting location when mapping further away from the Park Centre.
When:
- Training – September and January
- Mapping – Most Saturdays from October to April, usually in the morning
How: To join the Invasive Plant Mapping team you will need to fill out the Volunteer Application form and attend one of the training events.
WATER QUALITY MONITORING
What: Monthly sampling and monitoring of stream and bog water in Pacific Spirit Regional Park in teams of 3-4 to track chemical changes and patterns. This data is shared with the StreamKeepers Federation, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Metro Vancouver Regional Parks to support management decisions and further research.
Where: Spanish Banks Creek, Salish Creek and Camosun Bog
When:
- Training – June
- One Saturday a month
How: To join the Water Quality Monitoring team you will need to fill out the Volunteer Application form and attend the training event.
EcoRESTORATION MONITORING
What: In teams of 4-5 volunteers, we will track changes in native plant health and abundance, as well as invasive plant spread in restoration project areas throughout Pacific Spirit Regional Park. The data we collect will help PSPS and our partner organizations evaluate the effectiveness of our projects and maintenance work.
Where: At the 6 key restoration project sites in Pacific Spirit Regional Park
When:
- Training – April
- May to August – Exact dates will be selected based on team availability
How: To join the Eco Restoration Monitoring team you will need to fill out the Volunteer Application form and attend the training event.
CAMOSUN BOG RESTORATION MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
What: The Camosun Bog is a rare ecosystem in Pacific Spirit Regional Park and has it’s own restoration team. Since it is such a sensitive ecosystem, the mentorship program helps dedicated volunteers learn how to maintain the bog with minimal impact. The team also monitors the piezometer and well levels weekly.
When: Most Saturdays 9:30-12:00 (weather depending)
Where: Camosun Bog at West 19th Avenue and Camosun Street
How: Fill out the Volunteer Application form and be added to our Bog email list to attend your first event!
Visit the Camosun Bog Website, sign up for their weekly newsletter, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram!
