Ecological Restoration Plan and Management Recommendations for Kanishay Park in North Saanich, BC

Abstract

Kanishay Park in North Saanich, BC is prone to thickets of invasive Common Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Cutleaf Blackberry (Rubus laciniatus), and English Ivy (Hedera helix) among other things. The thickets of shrubby trees are causing a lack of structural diversity, native conifers are unable to reach expected heights and the shade caused by the thickets has led to bare ground in many areas. In fall of 2023, a work party cleared a test restoration site within the park. Based on the amount cleared by this work party, it is estimated that clearing of the entire degraded area of the park will take between 360 and 476 hours. Once the test restoration area was cleared, it was planted with 3 native conifer species, Abies grandis, Pseudotsuga menziesii, and Pinus monticola, as well as native shrubs Gaultheria shallon, and Polystichum munitum. These plants will be monitored to determine which species can survive best in the site’s conditions and should be planted throughout once the thickets and invasive species are removed. This restoration plan is intended as a guide for Friends of North Saanich Parks to hopefully continue the work that has been started there. Monitoring suggestions have also been included and involve continuous invasive species removal and trimming of native shrubs to allow space for planted conifers to grow.