Scattered along the local coast, you can find unique sand ecosystems that are rare in B.C. One site with coastal sand in Delta is located in Boundary Bay. To raise awareness of this unusual ecosystem, the South Coast Conservation Program is hosting a free beach walking tour next weekend. Coastal sand ecosystems are a combination of sand and plants, with the plants often scattered in patches on beaches, spits and dunes. Tides, storm surges and ocean spray help build and maintain these ecosystems. The plant communities that result support a wide range of rare and interesting animal life.
Coastal sand ecosystems are important as they contribute to B.C.'s biodiversity, provide recreational benefits for outdoor enthusiasts and buffer inland areas from flooding or storm damage. However, these areas are fragile and
vulnerable to human disturbances such as the spread of invasive plants.
The Nature Beach Tour takes place on Sunday, Oct. 5 at 11 a.m. Knowledgeable biologists will introduce the basics of coastal sand ecosystems, teach about the common and uncommon plants and animals, and answer questions about coastal sand stewardship in the Boundary Bay Area.
For more information, visit www.sccp.ca.
