In 2018, with gratitude, we received a bequest, that initiated the design and installation of a heron tower and web camera in Wessex Ravine Park (the location of Cowichan Bay’s Heron Rookery – the largest rookery on Vancouver Island).
Through the dedicated fundraising efforts of Centre friends like Jim Wisnia, and an Area D Grant in Aid, we have been successful in nearing our target goal of $15,000 to install the camera.
The camera, which will be located on a 68 foot tower, located in Wessex Ravine Park (thanks to the CVRD for permissions to install the tower), will be live streamed to our website for all around the world to view, and be a vital component to our nature education with over 5000 visitors to the Centre each year and 1000 + students. Live streaming will start in the spring of 2021 and will allow for an incredible birds eye view of heron nesting and launching of new fledglings.
The costs for the camera are ongoing – as construction costs change. Most important, ongoing live streaming costs will range from $1500-$3000 annually (depending on how many users visit the site). We are looking for sponsors, who will be recognized on our Heron webcam viewing page! If you are interested in sponsoring live viewing please contact us at 250.597.2288, or email at info@cowichanestuary.ca
