Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre Holiday Fundraiser

This fundraising event will support us in welcoming and engaging the public, including children, families and young people in the Centre's interpretive and nature-based programs and activities. With 6,000 visitors each year the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre, overlooking a bird and wildlife-rich estuarine ecosystem, is a popular attraction for young children, students, tourists, and local residents. We are run by a team of generous and talented volunteers, and we depend on donations and support from individuals and businesses to run our programs and keep our doors open. We can’t do it without you!

We’re a nature interpretive centre overlooking the Cowichan Estuary, a 400 hectare estuarine ecosystem and internationally designated Important Bird Area (IBA) in the unceded and traditional territory of the Quw’utsun People. In spite of more than a century of industrial activity, the estuary provides vital habitat for resident and migratory birds, Pacific salmon, shellfish and a diversity of inter-tidal life.

The Nature Centre offers interactive opportunities for all ages to learn about the estuary, its watershed, marine life, and natural and cultural history. Visitors can see and touch marine and intertidal creatures in our aquarium and touch tank; use our microscopes, telescopes and interactive displays, and enjoy wildlife and bird watching along our ocean front interpretive trail and from our viewing tower. Our team of part-time staff, nature educators and volunteers deliver school programs, summer camps, youth leadership training, citizen science projects and offer people of all ages opportunities to engage in hands-on riparian restoration projects in the estuary and watershed.