Over the years, few people have ventured near the Fairy Fen area, but this has changed. Some days ago, members of the Bowen Island Conservancy and a representative of the Islands Trust Fund, the two parties which will manage the new nature reserve for Bowen, noticed that the use of ATVs and other four-by-four vehicles has resulted in erosion of trails and creeks. This erosion will deposit large amounts of silt, which will, in turn, smother all life in the creek.
There are many reasons for the fen's reserve status. It lies within the only undeveloped water shed (Huszar Creek) in the Lower Mainland. The fen stores a large amount of water which is slowly released during the dry season keeping Huszar Creek from drying-up. The deep (up to three metres) Sphagnum moss serves as a colossal carbon sink. The varied fauna and flora are of great interest to many. It is a truly magical place.
Have a look at http://bowenislandconservancy.org/our-work/fairy-fen-nature-reserve/ for details. Bowen Island Conservancy will be taking on the contract to manage the reserve. One of our first tasks will be to identify, for all to see, the boundaries of the reserve and we are optimistic that these boundaries will be respected and the fen's ecological integrity can be preserved.
In the meantime, we appeal to those who enjoy riding off-road vehicles to please consider the impact you have on Bowen's natural surroundings especially very sensitive ecosystems such as Fairy Fen. By riding in Fairy Fen and other vulnerable locations, the damage you can cause is forever lasting. Please respect our natural areas.
Directors of the Bowen Island Conservancy
http://bowenislandconservancy.org
