Stories | Page 3

QUARRY PARK REVIVAL – 2019

3 of 5 years & on schedule

Stewardship Fervour | 5yr Strategy (2017-2021)

In North Saanich, an ecosystem revival is occurring at Quarry Park (3rd year in-progress). You are invited to participate! We started spring 2017, over 128 induvial people have volunteered 583.5hrs thank-you so much for caring and your efforts.

In an effort to find volunteers, on September 25, 2017, I wrote, “I’m big on Quarry Park! It’s achievable… It’s a big surge — can you picture the glory of this achievement?”

Part 1: QUARRY PARK (North Saanich)

Quarry Park is the most southern park in North Saanich, and when driving along East Saanich Road one can’t help but notice that stretch of unusually tall forest which is park. The park has a great forest floor which can host the full variety of natural forest plants. There are several 250 year-old Douglas firs situated near the special cliff area. These big-old trees have watched over this area since the mid-1700s. Underneath the high southern cliff are two natural dens which can be used by mammals. The manmade 1930s granite quarry has metamorphosed into a natural environment, and has become an interesting place for kids to play, realise reclamation, and experience a local forest that is protected from development. To maintain a natural (as-possible) forest, it is important to set the stewardship example and inspire the next generations to maintain and/or improve what they have.

Part 2: MY HISTORY WITH QUARRY PARK

Autumn 1982, while in grade three at Sansbury Elementary, I first regularly biked to and hiked in Quarry Park. The park felt revitalized and welcoming. New cedar signs had been placed at both of the Horseshoe Trailheads, a round cedar picnic table with two chairs were placed in the middle of the quarry, and a bench was perfectly positioned above the southern cliff. My first impression was that Quarry Park was cared for. However, it didn’t take long for me to realise the park was becoming neglected.

In January 1991 (age 16), inspired by the Friends of John Dean Park, I attempted to start a Friends of Quarry Park. I created a basic pamphlet and delivered it to my entire paper route plus the nearby homes. Looking back, it was not surprising that I did not receive a single response. I also wrote North Saanich Council and later walked Quarry Park with the Parks Commission. The upshot was I learnt the commissioners wanted to inspire volunteers, and had plans to create a new Park Warden program. A few months later, I was invited to attend the municipal hall after school, and was one of the first people to be presented the new North Saanich Volunteer Green Ball Cap. This gift motivated my role at Quarry Park, and it continued until 1999 when I moved to East Sooke, and joined the Regular Armed Forces.

During the 1990s I was so heavily involved in removing broom and ivy from the flagship John Dean Park, I simply didn’t see Quarry as a priority. Also, because I was young, I didn’t have the necessary awareness I now possess, to take the essential preventive action. A major conflict of my time and true interest occurred with John Dean Park, so Quarry fell aside and only remained in my heart. By the mid-2000s, the ivy was spreading into Quarry Park, and Daphne, laurel, holly, and blackberry followed and established.

Part 3: FRIENDS OF NORTH SAANICH PARKS

Contacts:

Sharon: sharonhope@shaw.ca (Co-founder, Executive Director, North Saanich Liaison)
Jarrett: jarrettteague@yahoo.ca (Quarry Park Steward and Technical Advisor)
Ashlee: ashleeanna4180@gmail.com (Founder, Emeritus Standing, Advisor)

Thank goodness by 2017, Ashlee and Sharon had created Friends of North Saanich Parks. R.O. Bull, Denham Till, Lillian Hoffar, Nymph Point and Quarry Park, were the first parks to receive their attention, chiefly on the invasive species front. Some of their mission and vision statements are:

MISSION & VISION STATEMENTS

“Our mission is to create stewardships for each park in North Saanich. There are 24 parks in North Saanich in need of restoring. We are removing invasive plant species out of these parks while building relationships with the community.”
“The invasive plant species in North Saanich Parks are decreasing the biodiversity, suffocating native species and negatively impacting the ecosystem and its soils. Let’s work together to remove invasive plants out of our North Saanich parks and help the forests return to their natures state.”
“We hope to remove all the invasive plant species out of a series of parks per year as well as support the development of stewardships for these parks.”
“Let’s help restore the ecosystem and protect the animals and native plants.”

Such vision and leadership quickly got my attention, and I attended the first work parties at Quarry Park. We have now hosted or organized 12 ivy pulls. We started along East Saanich Road, from inside the quarry upwards on all sides, worked around the quarry, and each time produced a large pile of debris. After each event, North Saanich Parks has removed a large pile invasive plants and the accumulated garbage. Here are the “work party” events:

TOTAL WORK PARTIES HOURS: 583.5

29 Apr 17 | Friends & 10^th Tsartlip Scouts | 12 volunteers, 3.75hrs | 45hrs
28 Oct 17 | Friends & 10^th Tsartlip Scouts | 17 volunteers, 3.75hrs | 63.75hrs
25 Nov 17 | Friends | 8 volunteers, 4hrs | 32hrs
12 May 18 | Friends & Men’s Newcomers | 7 volunteers, 3.75hrs | 26.25hrs
16 Jun 18 | Friends & Green Team | 23 volunteers, 3.25hrs | 74.75hrs
20 Oct 18 | Friends & Green Team | 17 volunteers, 3.25hrs | 55.25hrs
5 Apr 19 | Friends | 7 volunteers | 21.75
11 May 19 | Friends & Green Team | 18 volunteers, 3.25hrs | 58.5
15 Jun 19 | Friends | 8 volunteers, 4hrs | 32hrs
10 Aug 19 | Friends | 12 volunteers, 4hrs | 45hrs
25 Aug 19 | Friends | 11 volunteers, 2.5hrs | 27.5hrs
2 Nov 19 | Green Team | 31 volunteers (8 were under age 8), 3.25hrs | 100.75hrs

On November 25, 2017, Sharon wrote: “Let me congratulate you on being the first true Steward of a park under the North Saanich municipality through the Friends of North Saanich Parks.”
On June 30, 2018, Sharon wrote: “Jarrett you are truly one of the most persistent people I know, congratulations on being a stellar example to others in terms of ecological volunteering. Good luck as you continue.”
On August 19, 2019, Sharon wrote: “As you all know, it is extremely difficult to find committed volunteers and Jarrett is a valued member of the Friends of North Saanich Parks. He is the Steward of Quarry Park where we began work in during 2017.”

Please help the Friends of North Saanich Parks to restore this park by giving a couple hours of your time. If you’re interested, contact Sharon or Jarrett at their email address.

Part 4: MY 2017-19 QUARRY PARK WORKFLOW (as a Quarry Park Steward)

Removed major garbage (two trucks were filled);
Boundary awareness achieved;
Ivy was severed from tree bases;
The parks ivy was mapped, and a five-year removal plan was planned/plotted;
North Saanich staff removed blackberry from inside the quarry, wheel ruts were leveled and the quarry became an attractive parklike setting;
Participated and/or lead the work parties;
Daphne, laurel, holly, and blackberry are removed as discovered. Ivy is removed in priority, and stages;
The high south area was cleaned of garbage;
Old kids forts and bike jumps were dismantled and sites restored;
Major holly and blackberry were removed south of the quarry; and
To achieve full ivy removal, my strategy was to properly remove ivy working from the outside inwards and/or as inspired to work. The oldest and deepest two patches are and throughout the upper flat area (will be done autumn 2019), and in the SW corner (summer 2020).

Part 5: QUARRY PARK IVY ZONES

Zone

(5 zones)

Area

(16 areas)

Status

(October 2019)

1 – Inside Quarry, and up to the surrounding Horseshoe Trail

a) Quarry bottom

b) North slope to trail

c) East cliff

d) South slope to trail

a) Stage 7

b) Stage 6

c) Stage 6

d) Stage 5

2 – Roadside

a) 1^st power pole

b) 2^nd power pole

c) SW corner

a) Stage 6

b) Stage 5

c) Stage 2

3 – South of Quarry, outside of Horseshoe Trail

a) Trail to fallen log

b) Fallen log to cliff base

c) SW of cliff base

d) South line

a) Stage 6

b) Stage 3 (2 Nov 19)

c) Stage 4

d) Stage 4

4 – North of Quarry, outside of Horseshoe Trail

a) North trailhead

b) Trail to north boundary

a) Stage 4

b) Stage 5

5 – Outside of park, private property

a) SW corner

b) SE corner

c) North line

a) Stage 2, home supports

b) Stage 1, farm property

c) Stage 2, four homes support

IVY REMOVAL STAGES (current thinking)

Plan
Prep and Initial Removals
Major Removal
Follow-up
Search
Inspection
Commit (long-term monitoring & action)

Part 6: THE VALUE OF TIME EXPENDED

English ivy (Hedera helix) is an evergreen vine that is renowned as a serious, smothering invasive plant. When planted by mankind, or when eventually birds deposit seeds, it quickly grows and forms a dense monoculture groundcover that suppresses the natural vegetation, and the forest floor becomes unsuitable for native creatures. Also, the vines climb the trees, and during heavy winds or when snow and ice intensify, trees with heavy ivy are forced down.

From an ecological perspective, invasive species upset the balance of an ecosystem. Also, the synergy that comes from caring for a natural ecosystem is experienced in so many ways. In summary, there are many major benefits to removing invasive plants:

Trees of all sizes are conserved;
Sunlight increases, native flora and fauna flourishes;
The forest floor returns to a natural vegetated state;
The chemistry of soil balances; nutrients and ecosystem return to an equilibrium;
The ecological condition naturalises, slugs, snails and amphibians increase;
Visitors experience and enjoy a natural forest environment, wellness increases;
Neighbors to the park experience the benefits of a more accessible natural space;
Children come to play; the park is cherished for multiple decades;
The park becomes a welcoming and a special place to spend time; the community responds, parks staff and political resources are allocated; and
The park becomes an architype (natural museum). People experience a non-invasive forest environment.

Part 7: AUTUMN 2021 GOAL

Quarry Park has been a major undertaking. My plan is to achieve stage 6 (Inspection/extensive examination, declared ivy free) by November 2021. The amount of ivy at Quarry Park is much larger than the Illahie patch was at John Dean Park. The only difference is the Illahie ivy was 80 years old, 8” deep and well established. At Quarry Park there are two types of ivy, both thin and thick, both are 35 years old, only 2-3” deep, however it covers a much larger and complex area.

The ivy at Quarry Park was planted outside of the park during the early-1980s, and has spread mostly from the SW corner. In only 35 years, it made its way up to the high southern cliff, and beyond the parks north and eastern boundary lines. Luckily for Quarry, the ivy isn’t deep, and it can be conquered. The only reality I foresee is that ivy surrounds the park on many private properties, and will surely re-enter the park. I’ll complete Stage 6 and commit to Stage 7 (commitment to long-term monitoring & action). However to sustain the achievement after my time, a caring and engaged level of stewardship will be required. Either the municipality of North Saanich or a future Friends of Quarry Park will be required to be on scene and take the necessary long-time removal actions. I’ll approach this in the same way as was done at Illahie within John Dean Park (1997-2009, onwards). Illahie took 13 years to properly arrive at stage 7. I plan to achieve Stage 6 at Quarry Park by November 2021.

As of this writing, 128 people have attended at least one ivy event, thank-you so much. Please help us restore this park by giving a couple hours of your time. If you’re interested, contact Sharon or Jarrett. See you at Quarry Park . . .

Part 8: VALUE AND WORTH

For years and years I’ve been told that “volunteering is volunteering.” I believe that quick decree has turned off multiple dozens of people, especially younger potentials.

Since 2009, my ratio recompense thinking has been $1 per hour. However since taking on Quarry Park my thinking has involved. I now believe if money is available, a 3^rd time volunteer should receive a tip of $2 per hour for time worked, which can serve as a thank-you and/or hedge against private expenses; a new committed regular may be retained.

At this time, the only way for a volunteer to express their contribution which includes preparation, transport time, time worked, laundry, tools maintenance, volunteer log and communication, is by reporting the “volunteer hours worked”. For John Dean Park, I’ve always felt my ratio was near 25%. At Quarry Park, due to my experience and interests in tracking such efforts/time, I was very surprised to learn my time ratio is 66%. This high percentage makes me actually laugh aloud, however it’s the reality. To properly have someone (like myself) work 3hrs, actually means 5hrs. This 66% is time only, and has nothing to do with fuel, clothing, snacks, water and tool maintenance.

Those who have no connection – will remain unaware and never attract volunteers. I believe the definition of value and worth is rarely thought about, and usually underestimated. Any hard-core volunteer will instantly connect with my thinking of: effort of planning, executing and recovering.

FURTHER READING

Here’s the Ivy story that occurred at John Dean Provincial Park

https://www.johndeanpark.com/removing-the-parks-ivy/

IVY REMOVAL STAGES FOR QUARRY PARK

English Ivy (Hedera helix): Hedera is Latin for Ivy, helix is Latin for spiral

If there’s one continuous theme . . . it’s removing roots

STAGE

ACTION

RESULT

PLAN

Stage 1 is about locating park/property boundaries. Divide the park into ivy zones generally equal in size/effort/time. These zones generally fit between natural boundaries.

Photograph all zones. Create a folder for all images.

Write a mission statement. List the zones in priority. Although the end-state is to remove all ivy within the park, categorise each zone as:

1) Essential

2) Necessary

3) Desirable

Work within different zones can start at different times. Work parties and individuals can work towards and complete specific stages within a zone.

Leaders commit to mission and attract volunteers and/or organize work parties.

Specific ivy zones are established.

Digital archive is established.

Goals are set. Mission statement is available.

The priority of planned work is understood.

Leadership is inspired and recognises the value of these words:

– Commit

– Committed

– Commits

– Commitment

Prep

Initial

Removals

Stage 2 is all about the zone safety and the preparation required prior to the arrival of a work party. Remove eye poking branches and sticks. Remove holly, laurel, blackberry and Daphne.

Remove branches and sharp debris from the work party start point.

Remove known garbage.

Server ivy vines on trees at 6’ above the ground, and dig out all surrounding roots. Ensure all roots are removed from the trees base.

Area is safe for the entry of new volunteers to work.

All other invasive plants are gone, which will direct the focus of the work party specifically on ivy.

Oblivious garbage is removed.

Ivy on trees dies, sunlight is increased, and future vegetation growth will increase.

Major

Removal

Stage 3 is when the first-time major removal occurs, preferably by a work party. Teach volunteers to gently pull ivy slips from the ground. Attempt to remove as many roots (and sub-roots) as possible. Typically 90% of the ivy is removed.

Try to avoid damaging the larger natural vegetation. However scouring the ground is encouraged. The priority is ivy removal by the root, vegetation regrowth will occur (guarantied).

Remove garbage as it’s found.

90% of the ivy covering the ground has been removed.

Native vegetation begins to grow.

Area is almost garbage free.

Follow-up

Stage 4 is the most important stage, especially for committed Stewards.

Revisit the area one month after the first-time major removal.

Necessary tools:

– Grub how; and

– Plyers.

Remove the remaining ivy. Work in 3’ stretches, search under ferns, logs and rocks. Ensure all known ivy is removed. Remove all roots (all sizes) as discovered. Ensure all roots surrounding the trees have been properly removed.

To ensure all roots are removed, feel free to scour the ground. The priority is to remove all roots.

Remove garbage as it’s found.

Remaining Ivy is fully removed.

Roots are removed.

Zone is declared properly pulled / Stage 4 completed.

Native vegetation is growing.

Area is garbage free.

Stage 5 is a confirmation stage for each zone. It is specifically entrusted to Park Stewards.

Revisit the area several months after the one month follow-up (month 4-6). Start at one end of the zone, and extensively search back and forth in 3’ stretches. This is a methodical slow time evolution:

1) Remove old ivy that was missed;

2) Remove new ivy which has sprouted; and

3) It’s important to remove every root as it’s discovered; this will ensure everything gets done. Use plyers as needed.

Ivy is confirmed removed.

Roots are confirmed removed.

The zone is declared properly searched, and Stage 5 is declared completed.

Inspection

Stage 6 is the final confirmation/inspection stage for a particular zone. It includes many visits to each zone over a two year timeframe.

Revisit each zone twice every six months. Wear running shoes versus boots. Conduct ongoing searches for sprouting ivy. Technically remove all found ivy (by the root). Ensure all roots are correctly removed. Conduct exhaustive searches twice every six months as follows:

1) Months 12-18 x 2

2) Months 19-24 x 2

3) Months 25-36 x 2

The last remaining ivy is removed.

Ivy doesn’t reappear.

Zone by zone is formally declared ivy-free. The future sustainment has begun.

The proper completion of Stage 6 means that the zone is completed.

Commit

Stage 7 is reserved for when all zones have achieved Stage 6. This is a commitment stage versus removal stage.

Park Stewards recommit to long-term monitoring/action.

Write the story, use pictures.

Host a celebration party.

Recruit and plan for succession.

Ivy doesn’t reappear. The park is declared ivy-free. The park is under long-time monitoring/action.

The successful result is documented and made public. The effort is celebrated.

Volunteers are acknowledged and thanked.

Key Stewards are inspired to own the title Ivy Free. Younger people are inspired to maintain the title Ivy Free, which should be declared every five years.

Best, Jarrett

jarrettteague@yahoo.ca

250-642-3031

L/JDP, WEST BLOCK AT 30

A FRIENDS LEGACY – Thirty years ago on August 10, 1989, the Friends of John Dean Park achieved the sixth and most recent addition to ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Park. This west-side land addition spanned from Alec Road to the west line of John Dean’s property.

The Addition: https://www.johndeanpark.com/the-west-block-addition-1989/

Trail Maintenance: https://www.johndeanpark.com/merrill-harrop-trail-2018-improvements/

ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Provincial Park

ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ (Place of Refuge/Escape) is best pronounced as Tlay will nook

EXPONENTIAL STEWARDSHIP

The priorities of 35 and 25 years ago

At Lillian Hoffar Park which fronts on the western side of Tsehum Harbour, recently 14 people met for a three hour ivy pull. This Stage 1 removal brought back memories of the initial ivy removal at Illahie during the late 1990s. Mid-morning, I moved over to the base of a tree. Someone previously had severed the roots from the tree and did much removal. I removed the remaining bigger roots and nearby ivy slips. Later, I noticed another fellow working that same spot and he removed much more ivy. This reminded me of one of my favorite words – exponentially (more and more rapidly).

In North Saanich, what is occurring at RO Bull, Quarry and Lillian Hoffar is stewardship in an exponential manner. Afterwards, on the way home I thought about what I experienced. I concluded that the results of stewardship trains and empowers others to push forward. The excitement of momentum pours into a few people, and then empowers them to pour into more people enabling opportunity for exponential results. I believe partnering with the community, equipping and developing leaders multiplies the reach of the days work. I also have learnt that stewardship relationships creates exponential involvement.

Similarly over the past 35 years, ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Park (L/JDP) has experienced exponential stewardship. In 2010, the park was declared invasive free and fully restored. That was a huge achievement, however it still means ongoing new removals and maintenance is persistently required to sustain the achievement. Any time after 2010, anyone who knows what to look for can walk through the park and find it in great shape. So-much-so, the newest volunteers (FJDPS) are working on interpretive signage and paving the entrance road – this is their priority.

Having had now volunteered for 30 years at L/JDP, I know that an awareness of a subject can lead people to mistakenly believe that they know all there is to know. As the Dunning-Kruger effect explains: “The less they know, the more certain they are.” Inconsistency is perhaps the best word to describe the dissonance between what needs to be done and what people want to believe.

The cleanup, restoration and stewardship of L/JDP began in 1984. At that time, vandalism was relentless, party garbage remained strewn in the old picnic site, at the summit and viewpoints. Significant erosion was occurring along the original trails. In-fact, the park was totally neglected. It’s quite interesting to understand the priorities of 35 and 25 years ago versus today.

On May 10, 1984: 1) Edith Gardner; 2) Cy Hampson; 3) Josephine Doman; and 4) Des Crossley, met at: 5-6) Elizabeth and Edo Nyland’s home. They all had become increasingly concerned about the miss-use and the future of the park – they decided to create a “Friends.” Their concerns were:

Garbage dumping along the entrance road
Fire hazards
Vandalism to facilities
Nighttime parties
Damage by motor bikes and horses
Regulation signs being removed
Eroding trails
No entrance sign or kiosk
Accumulated construction debris at the radar tower
Rumors of park transfer from the province to the region

The 1991 Friends Executive created this action list:

Master plan
Design for entry gate
Entrance sign
Information kiosk
Information pamphlet
Repair of dam
Replacing stairs at dam
Summit trails eroding
Park boundary signs
Park trails signs
Park map
Excessive blowing of main trails
Request of bark mulch

Meanwhile in 1991, governmental agencies were actively planning:

Reservoir (CRD)
Park transfer (province)
Tree topping (federal)

The 1995 Friends Executive created this action list:

Park brochure is available
Proposed transfer
Declining membership
Mountain bikes on trails
Broom pulling efforts
Signage is needed
Trail maintenance
Update on gate and maintenance contracts, April
Water reservoir landscaping and road paving, June
Park map, 15 for trail junctions, September
Regulation signage forthcoming
Dam repair and new steps, autumn
Main trail gravel surfacing, autumn

Thirty years later – In 2014, knowing the modern day Friends was looking for a purpose, the following was offered:

Membership provides brochures, a colour map, newsletters, and the following opportunities:

Access to information
An avenue to report concerns
Invites to nature & history tours
Interpretative guide experience
Designing interpretative signage
Trail monitoring experience
Pride in maintaining a clean park
Encourage community awareness
To hand the park on to the next generation in a better condition

I believe exponential stewardship pours into people, then empowers them to pour into more people. Jarrett – 2019

BC Parks Facebook Post 17 Jun 19

June 21 is/was National Indigenous Peoples Day

To reflect historical and cultural significance, John Dean Provincial Park was renamed LAUWELNEW/John Dean Park (pronounced Tlay-will-nook), which translates to “place of refuge” in the language of the WSANEC people.

Amazing 2min video (posted 17 Jun 19) https://www.facebook.com/pg/YourBCParks/posts/

ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ Witnessing Ceremony

Dual Name Event, June 3, 2019

A celebration of the renaming of ȽÁU,WELṈEW/John Dean Park

Welcome/EWÁ E NE EN SḰEL, ḰEL

“Jarrett, you are on the list of honoured guests so I hope you are there!” – Adam Olsen

The BC Legislature approved Bill 16 – 2019 on May 2nd and 14th, 2019, which added the name ȽÁU,WELNEW to the parks title. The result was a dual name: ȽÁU,WELNEW/John Dean Provincial Park. Royal assent followed on May 16th. On June 3rd, to acclaim this achievement, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council and BC Parks co-hosted an event at the ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ Tribal School to acknowledge and celebrate the name addition.

Chiefs, councils, elders, members of: Tseycum/W̱SÍ¸KEM, Pauquachin/BOḰEĆEN, Tsartlip/W̱JOȽEȽP, Tsawout/SȾÁ¸EU¸TW̱, and the classes that petitioned to change the name were all present; plus the Minister of Environment, BC Park Rangers and Friends president, several invited guests were all present (over 150 people). It was a wonderful special time.

Dual Name Addition: the W̱SÁNEĆ mountain name was added to John Dean Park.

ȽÁU,WELNEW/John Dean Provincial Park

ȽÁU,WELNEW is the traditional name for Mount Newton

ȽÁU,WELNEW means Place of Refuge/Escape

ȽÁU,WELNEW is best pronounced as Tlay will nook

You may say – Tlay will nook / John Dean Park

___________________________________________

By Jarrett – am so pleased this has happened. Since my grade 3 (1983-84), I’ve been keenly aware of the sacredness of the mountain atmosphere. A few years later, I worked with BC Parks to bring the traditional trail names into the park: SLEKTAIN, THUNDERBIRD AND ȽÁU,WELNEW were approved, and by spring 1991 new posts and sings were installed by myself (age 16). In 1995, the name Raven Creek was added, and since then I’ve maintained and replaced the posts and signs as needed. The fact that these names were accepted and never touched by anyone is an amazing testament towards the overall long-time acceptance, and now love of these names. Adam Olsen, thank-you so much for properly adding the mountains name to this amazing park.

Thank-you John Dean (1850-1943) for saving your intact property, and for inspiring future land donations to the park which you created in 1921.

HÍ SW̱ KE (thank you)

___________________________________________

CTV News – Students prompt province to add Indigenous name to John Dean Provincial Park

https://vancouverisland.ctvnews.ca/video?binId=1.1777487 Watch Monday, June 3, 2019, minute 7:12 to 8:18

After a field trip to John Dean Provincial Park, there was one very big question on the minds of one Grade 3 class.

Students from the ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ (pronounced “Tlay-will-nook”) Tribal School wanted to know why the provincial park was not called the name they all knew, ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ (“Tlay-will-nook”).

The North Saanich mountain is known to local First Nations as a “place of refuge.” The students felt a strong connection to the park and wrote a letter requesting the name of the park be changed to include the traditional name of the W̱SÁNEĆ peoples.

Students Jorja Horne and Danaya Sam spoke on behalf of their classmates. “We just wanted to change the name back to ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱,” the two said.

On Monday the students of the ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ Tribal School celebrated the renaming. The Tribal School class was honoured with a blanketing ceremony, drumming and songs.

“The W̱SÁNEĆ people have always known this place as ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱,” said Tsartlip First Nation Chief Don Tom. “It is where our ancestors found refuge after the Great Flood and it is where we bring our children today to learn our history.”

The park was founded in 1921 and named after Saanich Peninsula settler John Dean. Dean donated the land to the province to protect and preserve the only old growth forest on Southern Vancouver Island.

Maureen Dale of the Friends of John Dean Society says the society fully endorses the naming decision, which recognizes the significance of the mountain to First Nations while retaining the legacy of John Dean’s gift of the park.

“I am honoured to celebrate with the students of ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ Tribal School as the park and mountain they have known all their lives is acknowledged,” said Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich North and the Islands. “By listening to the Indigenous youth in our communities we learn that reconciliation is about acknowledging our past and working together through purposeful acts of kindness and inclusion that benefit us all.”

The name change to ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Park received royal assent on May 16 as part of an amendment to the Protected Areas of B.C. Act. New signage that includes both names will be updated by BC Parks during the coming year.

“Only through a common understanding of the true history of this land can the difficult work of reconciliation begin,” said Tom.

North Saanich park renamed to reflect connections to Indigenous culture

By Brishti Basu – June, 3, 2019

A park in North Saanich that has historical and cultural significance for the island’s Indigenous community will be renamed thanks to the efforts of 4th grade students.

John Dean Provincial Park will soon be called ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Provincial Park (pronounced Tlay-will-nook) to which translates to “place of refuge.”

This change was approved on May 16th after a petition by students from ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ Tribal School who visited the park and were surprised to find it did not bear the name they know it as.

“The Indigenous renaming of parks allows our government to take an important step forward in our ongoing reconciliation efforts with Indigenous peoples throughout British Columbia and find meaningful ways to recognize and respect their culture and connection to protected lands.”

Significance to Indigenous culture

The mountain in the park and its surrounding areas feature prominently in First Nations culture and early descriptions of the mountain mention large rings of white stones placed there by the Saanich people.

According to BC Parks, Lau Wel New, as Mount Newton is known to the First Nations of the Saanich Peninsula, was the high point of land that enabled them to survive the Great Flood.

Legend has it that the Saanich ancestors were able to anchor their canoe until the floodwaters subsided using a giant cedar rope. Lau Wel New was the first land available as the floodwaters receded.

The park was later named “John Dean Provincial Park” after pioneer John Dean donated the first 32 hectares of property for the park in 1921, followed by four other settlers who contributed adjoining lands.

Signage to reflect that the park’s name has been changed to acknowledge its prominence in Indigenous culture will be added in the coming year.

Student ‘warriors’ spark change in park’s name

By Roxanne Egan-Elliott | Times Colonist – June 4, 2019

Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich-North and the Islands, with Danaya Sam and Jorja Horne.

Photograph By ADRIAN LAM, Times Colonist

Students at a Brentwood Bay First Nations school who successfully petitioned to add an Indigenous name to a nearby park show that anyone can be a leader in reconciliation at any age, according to a local First Nations chief.

Chief Don Tom of Tsartlip First Nation addressed a crowd gathered at LÁU,WELNEW Tribal School to celebrate the renaming of John Dean Provincial Park to LÁU,WELNEW/John Dean Park. The Indigenous name, pronounced Tlay-will-nook, means “place of refuge” in SENCOTEN, the language of the WSÁNEC peoples.

“I want them to know that you don’t have to be an older person to be a leader,” Chief Tom said. “We are seeing a wakening of a generation who do not have to wait to be 18 to make change.”

The name change was initiated last spring by a group of students at the school after they visited the mountain on a field trip and were upset to discover it had a different name than the one they know.

“I felt really sad, because I didn’t really like that it was John Dean Provincial Park,” said Grade 4 student Danaya Sam.

Danaya said she told her friends and her teacher that they should change the name.

The students penned handwritten letters calling for the change, and started a petition that collected more than 200 signatures.

George Heyman, minister of environment and climate change strategy, said reading the children’s letters caused him to reflect on the importance of language and tradition.

“If we deny the culture and the history and the language of a place, we, in some ways, deny the existence of the people who remain and who live here,” he said. “We destroy the connection that people need to have with their elders, with their grandparents, with their parents, and ultimately with their children and their grandchildren.”

Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich-North and the Islands and a member of Tsartlip First Nation, supported the students with their petition. Olsen explained to the provincial legislature the significance of the mountain and its name to the WSÁNEC peoples.

WSÁNEC history says that people began to forget the teachings of their creator and a great flood came as a result. As water levels rose and people prayed to survive, a mountain emerged in the distance. People climbed to the top and found safety. They decided to name the mountain LÁU,WELNEW, place of refuge.

Olsen said he often struggles to explain what reconciliation means, saying it’s an ongoing process with people and places.

“There is a deep connection that we have with the places and what they mean to us,” he said.

The decision to combine the SENCOTEN and English names, instead of replacing the previous name, was made to recognize the legacy of John Dean, Olsen said. Dean was a pioneer who donated the park’s land to the province in 1921, which helped to protect the old-growth trees on the land.

“We have a responsibility as we go forward to find positive ways to work together,” Olsen said.

Maureen Dale, president of Friends of John Dean Society, said she was pleased with the renaming decision. She read a statement from John Dean’s descendants who couldn’t attend the ceremony, calling the new name “a shining example” of different groups working together.

Chief Tanya Jimmy of Tseycum First Nation thanked the children for their role in encouraging reconciliation.

“You’re making history today that’s usually done at the leadership level,” she said. “Your young warrior selves are doing it today for us.”

Three provincial parks were renamed last year as part of reconciliation efforts. Brooks Peninsula Park near Port Alice became Mquqwin/Brooks Peninsula Park, Boya Lake Park in northwest B.C. was renamed Ta Ch’ila Park and Roderick Haig-Brown Park near Kamloops became Tsútswecw Provincial Park.

In 2013, a movement to change the name of Mount Douglas to the SENCOTEN name PKOLS began, and unofficial signs with the Indigenous name appeared on the mountain.

reganelliott@timescolonist.com

John Dean Provincial Park renamed to include Indigenous name – June 3, 2019

https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2019ENV0025-001109

Students from ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ Tribal School, along with First Nations Chiefs, Elders and representatives from the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council, are celebrating their efforts to have John Dean Provincial Park renamed to include a traditional Indigenous name.

George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, and Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich-North and the Islands, joined the celebrations at ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ Tribal School. To reflect historical and cultural significance, the park will be renamed ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Park (pronounced Tlay-will-nook), which translates to “place of refuge.” The name change received royal assent on May 16, 2019, as part of an amendment to the Protected Areas of BC Act.

Located in North Saanich, the mountain in the park features prominently in local First Nations culture as a place that helped save people during the Great Flood thousands of years ago. Due to this connection to the park, the students at ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ Tribal School requested the name change to include the traditional name for the mountain in the language of the W̱SÁNEĆ peoples. BC Parks will update and add new signage that includes both names during the coming year.

Last year, three provincial parks were renamed as part of reconciliation efforts with Indigenous peoples. Brooks Peninsula Park near Port Alice was renamed Mquqwin/Brooks Peninsula Park, Boya Lake Park in northwest B.C. was renamed Tā Ch’ilā Park and Roderick Haig-Brown Park near Kamloops was renamed Tsútswecw Provincial Park.

Also this year, the Power River Watershed Protected Area on northern Vancouver Island was renamed the Hisnit River Watershed Protected Area. Hisnit is the traditional name for sockeye in the Che:k’tles7et’h’ language.

Quotes:

George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy —

“The letter from students requesting the name change caused me to reflect on what it means to Indigenous youth to see recognition and respect for their traditions, culture, language and the stories they’re told growing up. The Indigenous renaming of parks allows our government to take an important step forward in our ongoing reconciliation efforts with Indigenous peoples throughout British Columbia and find meaningful ways to recognize and respect their culture and connection to protected lands.”

Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich North and the Islands and member of Tsartlip First Nation —

“I am honoured to celebrate with the students of ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ Tribal School as the park and mountain they have known all their lives is acknowledged with its original name ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ in addition to the designation it was assigned in 1921 of John Dean Park. By listening to the Indigenous youth in our communities with open hearts, we learn that reconciliation is about acknowledging our past and working together in a compassionate way through purposeful acts of kindness and inclusion that benefit us all.”

Tsartlip Chief Don Tom, chairman of the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council —

“The W̱SÁNEĆ people have always known this place as ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱. It is where our ancestors found refuge after the Great Flood and it is where we bring our children today to learn our history. The name ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ is woven into our very identity as W̱SÁNEĆ people. With that said, it is a welcome change for the Province to recognize the original name of this place. Only through a common understanding of the true history of this land can the difficult work of reconciliation begin.”

Maureen Dale, president of the Friends of John Dean Society —

“The Friends of John Dean Park Society and several descendants of John Dean who were engaged in the renaming process are delighted with the outcome and fully endorse the final naming decision, which recognizes the significance of the mountain to First Nations while retaining the legacy of John Dean’s gift of the park.”

Learn More:

For more information about ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Park, visit: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/john_dean/

For more information about the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council, visit: https://wsanec.com/

For more information about BC Parks, visit: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/

John Dean Provincial Park renamed to include Indigenous name

By ahnationtalk – June 3, 2019

VICTORIA – Students from ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ Tribal School, along with First Nations Chiefs, Elders and representatives from the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council, are celebrating their efforts to have John Dean Provincial Park renamed to include a traditional Indigenous name.

Quotes:

George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy —

Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich North and the Islands and member of Tsartlip First Nation — “I am honoured to celebrate with the students of ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ Tribal School as the park and mountain they have known all their lives is acknowledged with its original name ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱ in addition to the designation it was assigned in 1921 of John Dean Park. By listening to the Indigenous youth in our communities with open hearts, we learn that reconciliation is about acknowledging our past and working together in a compassionate way through purposeful acts of kindness and inclusion that benefit us all.”

Tsartlip Chief Don Tom, chairman of the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council —

Maureen Dale, president of the Friends of John Dean Society — “The Friends of John Dean Park Society and several descendants of John Dean who were engaged in the renaming process are delighted with the outcome and fully endorse the final naming decision, which recognizes the significance of the mountain to First Nations while retaining the legacy of John Dean’s gift of the park.”

Learn More:

For more information about ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Park, visit:http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/john_dean/

For more information about the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council, visit: https://wsanec.com/

For more information about BC Parks, visit: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/

Royal Assent, ȽÁU,WELNEW/John Dean Park

May 14, 2019, at 17:05:10, BC’s Bill 16 – 2019, received Legislative approval.

May 16, 2019, BC’s Bill 16 – 2019, received Royal Assent.

ȽÁU,WELNEW is best pronounced as Tlay will nook; the traditional name has been added, nothing has been lost.

Here’s the link and mapping to watch the third reading of Bill 16, which passed on May 14, 2019, at 17:05:10.

https://www.leg.bc.ca/documents-data/debate-transcripts/41st-parliament/4th-session

Select: Tuesday, May 14, 2019, Afternoon – House, Chamber Video. Watch time 4:57 to 5:06pm. Especially look for MLA Adam Olsen’s statement and question at 4:58, and the Minsters following response. Watch until 5:06pm. Adam – well done, thank-you!

I’m so pleased this has happened. Since my grade 3 (1983-84), I’ve been keenly aware of the sacredness of the mountain atmosphere. A few years later, I worked with BC Parks to bring three traditional trail names into the park: SLEKTAIN, THUNDERBIRD, and ȽÁU,WELNEW were approved. By spring 1991 new posts and sings were installed by myself (age 16). In 1995, the name Raven Creek was added, and since then I’ve maintained and replaced the posts and signs as needed. The fact that these names were accepted and never touched by anyone is an amazing testament towards overall long-time acceptance, and now love of these names. Adam Olsen, thank-you so much for properly adding the mountains name to this amazing park.

Thank-you John Dean (1850-1943) for saving your intact property, and for inspiring future land additions to the park which you created in 1921.

I am pleased to present this new name: ȽÁU,WELNEW/John Dean Park

Global News, May 4, 2019

“Indigenous students convince B.C. government to change name of provincial park” WATCH: A group of B.C. indigenous students has successfully petitioned the NDP government to change the name of a provincial park on the Saanich Peninsula to reflect the area’s First Nations’ heritage.

Best, Jarrett

ȽÁU,WELNEW, an additive process

ȽÁU,WELNEW is best pronounced as Tlay will nook

MLA Adam Olsen (Green), May 15, 2019, “This is an additive process, not a reductive one. The name ȽÁU,WELNEW will be added to John Dean Provincial Park so it will now be known as ȽÁU,WELNEW/John Dean Provincial Park.”

May 16, 2019, Bill 16 – 2019 received Royal Assent.

The full backstory will be presented shortly. Firstly, I believe it’s essential to listen to what Adam Olsen said in the BC Legislature on May 8, 2018: Expanding park land and reattaching Indigenous names through Bill 19 (2018 annual BC Parks amendments bill): https://adamolsenmla.ca/expanding-parkland/ (12:22).

“Indigenous place names have marked and identified important locations throughout British Columbia for countless generations. Following contact and settlement of European people new names were added and signs were erected. Bill 19 expands parkland and begins to reattach Indigenous place names to those important places. In second reading debate I take the opportunity to discuss the importance of Indigenous names to critical locations, and what we can learn from them.”

Both before and after this May 8, 2018, speech, I (Jarrett Teague) suggested to MLA Adam Olsen that if there was ever a time, this was the time to add the traditional name of ȽÁU,WELNEW to John Dean Provincial Park. Interestingly, John Dean Park was not mentioned in this address. However, within a month, Adam had encouraged and/or inspired the ȽÁU,WELNEW students to petition government for the name change. This name change or addition idea was first made publicly known on June 12, 2018 (Adam Olsen BLOG).

https://www.facebook.com/Olsen4MLA/videos/1925024250863491/

Regardless of the spin, since 1990 I have celebrated and promoted the traditional mountain name ȽÁU,WELNEW, which is now well-known and accepted within the park. I fully support this traditional name addition.

Summer 1990, I collaborated with W’S’ANEC elder Gabriol Bartlemen and BC Parks to name three trails and a stream within John Dean Park. For 29 years I have maintained the following signs:

ȽÁU,WELNEW TRAIL | ȽÁU,WELNEW ŚKEM¸SET
SLEKTAIN TRAIL | SLEKTAIN ŚKEM¸SET
THUNDERBIRD TRAIL | ZINCO SOL | TO ȽÁU,WELNEW SUMMIT
RAVEN CREEK | SQTO¸; SPOOL

Best, Jarrett

ȽÁU,WELNEW/JOHN DEAN PARK

Bill 16 – 2019 changes the name of John Dean Park.

In 1921, John Dean saved this intact property by creating a provincial park. Mr. Dean saved his property from loggers, and inspired future land additions to the park. Today, this provincial park encompasses the summit of Mount Newton/ȽÁU,WELNEW.

First Reading of Bill 16 – March 25, 2019

Second Reading of Bill 16 – May 2, 2019

Third Reading of Bill 16 – May 14, 2019

Royal Assent of Bill 16 – May 16, 2019

W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council event – June 2019

ȽÁU,WELNEW is best pronounced as

Tlay will nook

May 1, 2019: E-mail received from MLA Adam Olsen: “Hi Jarrett, I am sorry for the late notice. I just found out that they are calling the Bill for the official name change John Dean to ȽÁU,WELNEW/John Dean tomorrow at 11am in the Legislature. We have been honoured with the work you have done on behalf of our sacred mountain, I would like to have you here as well. Please let us know if you are able to attend. You will need to be here at about 10:45am. – Adam”

May 2, 2019: I arrived at the BC Legislature at 9am, toured the building and watched the 30min question period. Next, was the Second Reading of Bill 16 – 2019: Protected Areas of British Columbia Amendment Act, 2019 (changes the name of John Dean Park). I sat in seat #98, next to Adam Olsen’s family, and with a total of 24 W̱SÁNEĆ people, 13 were students.

3 Schedule C is amended

(f) by repealing the name of John Dean Park and substituting the following:

ȽÁU,WELNEW/JOHN DEAN PARK

ȽÁU,WELNEW (Place of Refuge/Escape) is best pronounced as: Tlay will nook

First Reading of Bill 16 – Monday, March 25, 2019, Afternoon | 1:47pm to 1:49:10pm

https://www.leg.bc.ca/documents-data/debate-transcripts/41st-parliament#19ebaa65-c692-4a80-ac94-a1ee96e1a4a5=%7B%22k%22%3A%22%22%7D#Default=%7B%22k%22%3A%22%22%2C%22s%22%3A51%7D#6662ba2d-abe3-48b0-96ba-14e9722beeb9=%7B%22k%22%3A%22%22%7D

Second Reading of Bill 16 – Thursday, May 2, 2019, Morning | 11:17:50am to 11:40:45am

https://www.leg.bc.ca/documents-data/debate-transcripts/41st-parliament/4th-session

The Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, the Honourable George Heyman spoke of this year’s act (11:17:50 to 11:26). He started by acknowledging and thanking the W̱SÁNEĆ leaders, and he recognised me by name as a long-time park volunteer. At 11:19am, I was so surprised to hear my name: “and Jarrett Teague, a long-time volunteer, who has done work in the park, which I`m about to address.” Next, at exactly 11:19:45am, the new name “ȽÁU,WELNEW/JOHN DEAN PARK” was spoken in the Legislature, it sounded perfect and beautiful . . .

Next, our MLA Adam Olsen spoke of the mountains important history, told the legend of the Great Flood, and the story behind the name of the ȽÁU,WELNEW Tribal School (11:26 to 11:40:45). His speech was all-encompassing, thoughtful, wise, and is very much worth watching. Here’s the link to Adam’s Blog (4 May 19). Suggest watching his entire 15min speech, it’s great.

https://adamolsenmla.ca/restoring-lauwelnew-the-place-of-refuge/

Afterwards, the adults and students alike met in Adam’s office for a visit and some interviews were conducted. In conclusion, I feel excited – this is amazing for the park. The mountain’s true name is ȽÁU,WELNEW (Place of Refuge/Escape), a name which I’ve honoured and promoted since 1990. Now the mountains traditional name is properly bestowed upon this super natural provincial park.

Watch minute 6:50 to 8:19

https://www.cheknews.ca/5pm-newscast-may-2-2019-557380/

CBC, On The Island

“Indigenous Grade 4 students get government to change name of provincial park.” Scroll to the bottom for a 5:54min audio story of 2 May 19.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/indigenous-john-dean-park-saanich-vancouver-island-legislature-1.5119986

Next, Bill 16 will go through Committee for a few weeks. Since there is no objection, this Bill should be signed by Lt Governor of BC, the Honourable Janet Austin by mid-summer 2019.

BC Government News Release, March 25, 2019

https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2019ENV0011-000476

To reflect ancestral connections and support reconciliation efforts, the amendments also include renaming John Dean Park to ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Park (pronounced Tlay-will-nook), which means “place of refuge” in the language of the W̱SÁNEĆ people.

“Giving this park a traditional Indigenous name connects us all with the original history and cultures of our province and supports ongoing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples throughout B.C.,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. “I was moved when I received a number of letters from young Indigenous students who all requested this change and expressed so clearly the meaning it would have for them. This legislation also expands our parks and strengthens protection of sensitive lands, so British Columbians will be able to enjoy beautiful natural spaces for years to come.”

Bill 16 – 2009

https://www.leg.bc.ca/parliamentary-business/legislation-debates-proceedings/41st-parliament/4th-session/bills/first-reading/gov16-1

Further reading: Jarrett’s Name Change Story – December 2018:

LÁU,WELNEW Provincial Park (John Dean)

Further reading: Jarrett’s Name Change Story – July 2014:

RESTORING THE TRADITIONAL NAME – ȽÁUWELṈEW

HÍ SW̱ KE (thank you)

Jarrett

250-642-3031

Jarrett’s 30th at ȽÁU,WELNEW/John Dean Park

2019 celebrates Jarrett’s 45^th birthday, 27 years of service with the Canadian Armed Forces, and marks his 30^th anniversary of volunteering at John Dean Park. Yes, during spring break 1989, Jarrett was 14½ when he first excavated the great stone steps along Bob Boyd’s Climb, and that summer he participated in building the Slektain Trail. Since then, Jarrett has continuously maintained all trails, signage, removed all invasive plants, cared for the park in all ways, and presented the parks history.

2019 also marks Jarrett’s 20^th anniversary of living in East Sooke, in the house he built named Safari Illahie. Married in 2009, Touria & Jarrett raise three vibrant children: Amir (8), Sami (6), and Sara (3).

For the parks 100^th anniversary, Jarrett created the 2018-2021 Centennial Years Celebration. After 29 years of recognising the mountains traditional name ȽÁU,WELNEW, Jarrett is looking forward to adding the traditional name to the parks title: ȽÁU,WELNEW/JOHN DEAN PROVINCIAL PARK.

ȽÁU,WELNEW (Place of Refuge/Escape) is pronounced as Tlay will nook.

Jarrett’s long list of accomplishments doesn’t require mention here… WELL DONE JARRETT !!!

We know that since 1990 you’ve taken, acquired, and organized thousands of park pictures. We hope you’re immense achieve will eventually become publicly available. Thank-you for creating your archive and for your books. JARRETT, thank-you and enjoy your 30^th spring/summer at John Dean Park!

JARRETT’S FAVOURITE SONGS:

Jimi Jamison – I’m Always Here – Baywatch (3:18, courtesy YouTube) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ilAJJ3WHg6g
Lord I Lift Your Name On High (worship video w/ lyrics) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COQ6cni_TG8
BAYWATCH Intro – I’m always here (Piano Cover) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DdmHvrpR81g&list=RDDdmHvrpR81g&start_radio=1
Alex Kabasser – I’m always here “Baywatch theme” (acoustic guitar cover) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njcK5Z3qdAQ&list=RDDdmHvrpR81g&index=2

Your many Friends,

BROOM MANAGEMENT SYSTEM SUCCESSION | 2019-20

ȽÁU,WELNEW PARK (John Dean)

I'm very excited to report that the park is ivy,
blackberry, Daphne, and broom free!

11 of 11 broom zones are mint;
By Dec 18 (80hrs), the broom zones were totally cleared;
75hrs per year is required to maintain the achievement. All meadows are maintained at minus 18”/18mths growth; today, 2” has been achieved throughout;
BC Parks does not ask a minimum amount of time or effort. They “appreciate everything people give no matter how big or small”; and
This story is posted for future volunteers. The below tables describe the time and commitment needed to maintain and sustain the achievement.

THE 11 BROOM ZONES AT ȽÁU,WELNEW PARK (John Dean)

ZONE	MEADOWS	CLASSIFICATION	PRIORITY
1	Airport Radar Tower	Flagship Presentation	Priority 1, Internal
2	Upper Thomson Cabin Trail	Special Place	Priority 1, Internal
3	Coast Guard Radar Tower	Flagship Presentation	Priority 1, Internal
4	Pickles’ Bluff	Flagship Presentation	Priority 1, Internal
5	ȽÁU, WELṈEW̱ Trail	Flagship Presentation	Priority 1, Internal
6	Woodward Trail	Flagship Presentation	Priority 1, Internal
7	Surveyors’ Trail	Trail-side Viewpoint	Priority 2, Boundary
8	West Viewpoint	Trail-side Viewpoint	Priority 2, Boundary
9	West Block	Special Place	Priority 1, Internal
10	Entrance Road	Special Place	Priority 1, Internal
11	Upper Gail Wickens’ Trail	Special Place	Priority 2, Boundary

The seedbank is now largely exhausted. Noteworthy, few parks within the region have received such a long-time commitment towards the complete removal of broom.

It’s now my great hope that a person or family adopt each zone. If you have a favorite spot you love and would like to care for, contact Jarrett @ jarrettteague@yahoo.ca // 250-642-3031 for volunteer info:

ZONE

LOCATION

BACKGROUND

SITUATION

2018

mint

Airport Radar Tower:

a) West side of road, main

b) East side of road

Flagship Presentation

1995, initial removal

Major removals occurred

2011, Jarrett adopted the meadow; seed bank not exhausted, requires monthly attention

2018, the entire zone is fully secured of broom

99% done

Maintained bi-annually

Adjacent broom within MOT compound; unreliably cut

Removal actions required, 30min per month / 6hrs annually

2018

mint

Upper Thomson Cabin Trail:

a) Center east side

b) Base of slope

c) Lower shelf

Flagship Presentation

1996, initial removal, Jarrett adopted the meadow

Seedbank almost exhausted

99% done

Maintained bi-annually

Removal actions required, 30min per month / 6hrs annually

2018

mint

Coast Guard Radar Tower:

a) East of entrance road

b) South metal fence line

c) Lower-middle treeline

d) North at wood fence

Flagship Presentation

1991, initial major removals occurred

1997, Jarrett adopted

2018, the entire zone is fully secured of broom

99% done

Maintained bi-annually

Seed bank almost exhausted

Requires 30min per month / 6hrs annually

2018

mint

Pickles’ Bluff:

a) Bluff, center area

b) Bluff, lower south end

c) Bluff, lower north end

d) Meadow, below and north

e) Meadow south of steps

f) Meadow far south of steps

g) Meadow north of steps

Flagship Presentation

1991, initial removal

1992-98, Major removals occurred

1999, seed bank exhausted

2018, the entire zone is fully secured of broom

99% done

Maintained quarterly

Requires 30min per month / 6hrs annually

2018

mint

ȽÁU,WELNEW Trail:

a) Fern Dell Trailhead

b) West of trail, upper area

c) East of trail, along ridge

d) East of trial, middle slope

e) East of trail, lower S area

f) East of trail, lower SE area

g) Northward towards the bluff

Flagship Presentation

1993, initial removal

Dr. Bryce Kendrick adopted; Many thanks to Bryce who pulled in this location: 1995-2013

2008, seed bank exhausted

2009-current, maintained at -11”

2018, the entire zone is fully secured of broom

99% done

Maintained quarterly

Requires 8-10hrs annually

2018

mint

Woodward Trail:

a) Triangle Junction meadow

b) Triangle Junction, area below and SW

c) Ridge below Woodward

d) Lower SE Gary oak Meadow

e) Ridge above Woodward

Flagship Presentation

1993, initial removal

1999, Seed bank exhausted

Major adjacent seed bank on private property; ongoing action required forever

2018, the entire zone is fully secured of broom

99% done

Maintained quarterly

Requires 30min per month / 8hrs annually

2018

18”

Surveyors’ Trail:

a) Viewpoint

b) Viewpoint tree line

c) Below viewpoint in forest

d) Behind house

e) Eastern meadow

f) Eastern meadow in forest

g) Above Surveyors’ Trail

h) Above Surveyors’ Trail, north meadows

Trail-side Viewpoint

1992, initial removals

Ongoing removals by a few Friends occurred; many thanks to Dr. Bryce Kendrick who pulled in this location: 1995-2013

2015, Jarrett conducted a 26hr 100% removal throughout the entire area; committed to long-term monthly removals

Major adjacent seed bank on private property; ongoing action required forever

2018, the entire zone is fully secured of broom

2015, 99% removed

Maintained monthly

Requires 30min per month / 8hrs annually

2018

Clear

West Viewpoint:

a) Lower shelf

b) Lower shelf, outer perimeter

Trail-side Viewpoint

1991, Initial pull; inconsistent removals occurred

2015, Jarrett conducted a 100% removal throughout the entire area; committed to long-term monthly removals

2018, the entire zone is fully secured of broom

2015, 99% removed

Forest broom within sight has been removed

Maintained bi-annually

Requires 15min per month / 5hrs annually

2018

mint

West Block:

a) Upper, above relocation

b) Lower, above the multiple drainage channels

c) Central meadow

d) Arbutus Ridge slope

Special Place

1996, initial removal

Inconstant removals occurred

2011, seed bank exhausted

2018, the entire zone is fully secured of broom

99% done

Maintained bi-annually

Requires 4hrs annually

2018

Mint

Entrance Road:

a) Upper Slektain Meadow

b) Meadow below road corner

c) Meadow above fire hydrant

d) High ridge above road

e) Cliffs above road

f) Meadows above Montfort Trail West

Special Place

1993, initial removal

maintained at -11”

2018, the entire zone is fully secured of broom

99% done

Maintained bi-annually

Requires 15min per month / 5hrs annually

2018

clear

Upper Gail Wickens’ Trail:

a) South trailhead of Barret Montfort East

b) Former viewpoint

c) Haldon Park, center meadow

Special Place

2002, initial removal, inconsistent removals occurred

2006, last seeded; Jarrett adopted the zone

99% done

Maintained bi-annually

Adjacent broom on private properties

Removal actions required, 15min per month / 6hrs annually

In 1991, Jarrett and a committed group of six Friends started to remove the major broom throughout the park. The initial removal of the big broom (2” girth) took six years of hard work. By 1998, the large seed producing broom was gone, and the meadows were growing a continual lawn of baby broom. By 2002, the broom growth slowed and thinned, but continued. Only Bryce Kendrick and I were steadfastly removing broom;
Broom produces seeds during its third year, those seeds can remain in the ground for 15-20 years, and therefor it’s essential that all broom be removed immediately to hedge against the 35mth deadline. For example, if a meadow is cleared of 12mth broom, the 36mth regrowth countdown is reset;
Jarrett is working towards establishing a multi-volunteer Broom Succession Plan;
For spring 2019, the broom is under the 18” / 18mth level. Today, a new volunteer inherits a zero debt & zero deficit workload; and
Interested in a favorite spot? Contact Jarrett @ jarrettteague@yahoo.ca // 250-642-3031

EASY MEADOW ASSESMENT | DEBT, DEFICIT, OWN

Jarrett’s 2015 thinking

STAGE	EFFORT	AGE/HEIGHT	THREAT	CONTROL
7	no concern	49mth / +31”	seed generating	abandonment
6	failure	48mth / +30”	seed generating	rejection of duty
5	setback	36-47mth / 24-29”	seed producing	negligence of duty
4	debt	24-35mth / 18-23”	growth	attention
3	deficit	12-23mth / 12-17”	growth	care
2	routine	3-11mth / 6-11”	babies	love
1	mastered	1-5”	babies minimal	own

SELF-ASSESSMENT | BROOM INVOLVEMENT SPECTRUM

Jarrett’s 2017 thinking

I don’t know

Park visitor

Visits the park for a great park experience.

Likely doesn’t want to know about and/or hear about broom, or support those who are involved.

I don’t know

Level: 1

Park visitor who cares about the park.

Who may have a vague awareness of broom, but does not understand its scope or what they need to learn.

I know

Level: 2

Park regular who can describe the broom situation, and can remove some broom with support.

They understand what they need to learn to personally progress.

I can

Level: 3

Park regular who regularly removes broom with little to no support.

They reflexively remove broom without necessarily thinking through it step by step.

I am

Level: 4

Park reliable who persistently removes broom without any support.

They instinctively seek and remove broom throughout the park, step by step.

I guarantee

Level: 5

Park steward who has committed that she/he will remove broom prior to 18mths/18” growth, to methodically ensure all broom is removed from the parks 11 broom zones.

Does not require support; does not require thanks; maintains the Master Broom Register; and ensures all work is done each year.

THE WAY TO SUSTAIN BROOM FREE IS:

Set mission statement: “ensure the park remains broom-free (under 11mths growth)”;
Assign each meadow to a person or family who commits;
Leadership monitors and updates the parks “Broom Register” quarterly (11 zones);
The best time to surge on broom is October to December; conduct double checks January to February; avoid flower areas March to June; 30min monthly per zone is crucial; and
To operate whereby less work is required from future volunteers.

Broom Sponsor (encouragement / supporter)
Broom Companion (2^nd year & 1-2 zones)
Broom Supervisor (3^rd year & 3+ zones)
Broom Principal (4^th year & all zones)

QUALITIES OF VOLUNTEER BROOM COMPANIONS:

Awareness – Interest – Time – Vigour – Ownership

recognizes action is required;
believes broom free must be sustained;
identifies with the object of the exercise;
commits exceptional worth to the park;
performs well;
achieves results;
regards the role as a talent; and
orchestrates a succession plan.

Vancouver Island – British Columbia

Significance to Indigenous culture

ȽÁU,WELNEW is best pronounced as Tlay will nook

ȽÁU,WELNEW is best pronounced as

Tlay will nook

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