Puntledge Forest

Forest and river in Puntledge Forest

About this conservation project

Located in the heart of K’ómoks First Nation's traditional territory, the Puntledge Forest is a beloved network of forests, wetlands and trails along the Puntledge River.

When the forest's timber rights were at risk, the Comox Valley Land Trust launched an ambitious campaign to protect it. Thanks to an extraordinary community effort, the forest is now permanently protected.

BC Parks Foundation was proud to contribute $700,000 to the campaign in partnership with the Wilson 5 Foundation, joining governments, foundations, local organizations and hundreds of individual donors who came together to make this conservation success possible.

A community comes together

The $2.4-million campaign was powered by people who believed this special place was worth protecting.

Nearly $500,000 was donated by individuals across the community, with matching gifts from generous "forest angels" inspiring even more support. Significant contributions from the Government of Canada, Sitka Foundation, an anonymous foundation, and BC Hydro's Fish & Wildlife Compensation Program helped bring the campaign across the finish line.

Together, this remarkable partnership ensured the forest will continue to provide habitat for wildlife, clean water, and a place for people to connect with nature.

Voices from the partnership

“The Puntledge Forest is a remarkable place, rich with biodiversity and deeply valued by the community,” says Andy Day, CEO of BC Parks Foundation. “We’re proud to support this community-led campaign with our partners, and are very grateful to the passionate individuals, donors, and partners who made it possible. Protecting nature is one of the greatest legacies we can leave.”

A legacy for future generations

Today, the Puntledge Forest is protected forever.

As the forest continues to mature, it will provide habitat for wildlife, help protect the watershed and remain a place where people can walk, explore and experience nature. It stands as a lasting example of what communities can accomplish when they come together around a shared goal.