Hello everyone!

My name is Kayla Jones, and I am the new Communications Intern here at TLC! My educational background is in Geography, and I am passionate about environmental stewardship and exploring wild spaces. I will be working with TLC for 8 weeks as part of the government-funded Canada Summer Jobs Program.

I am so excited to be working with such a wonderful group of like-minded people who are committed to restoring and protecting BC’s biological diversity. Stay tuned to our social media accounts and blog to learn more about what we are up to!

This photo was taken at one of TLC’s conservation covenants in Sooke Hills.

Last week, I joined TLC’s biologists Karen Iwachow and Larissa Bron for a visit to one of our conservation covenants in the Sooke Hills, where we are working with the Capital Regional District to monitor that trails are maintained for recreational use while ensuring the continued protection of sensitive ecosystems in the area. Part of the Sea to Sea Green/Blue Belt – a corridor of protected green space spanning from the Saanich Inlet to the Juan de Fuca Strait – this beautiful property contains mature second-growth Coastal Western Hemlock forest. The area provides important habitat for bears, cougars, and countless other plants and wildlife. It also contains trails for recreational activities such as hiking and mountain-biking.

Mountain biking trails through the Sooke Hills.

We spent the day observing the area’s mountain-biking trails and identifying spots undergoing or at risk of erosion, those with sensitive ecological characteristics and any other areas of concern. Along the way, we got to see some of the abundant flora and fauna present on the property! From towering grand firs to tiny starflowers, it was truly something special. The hike was a fantastic reminder of the importance of the Covenant Program and the hard work that goes into it, which gives such species a place to thrive. Conservation covenants apply not only to current landowners but all future landowners as well and are an excellent tool for restoring or preserving natural spaces. They can also give TLC the ability to monitor and study properties for any issues related to unauthorized anthropogenic disturbance or natural degradation. The Convenant Program is entirely funded by your generous donations and TLC is so appreciative of your help in protecting these areas!