MVIHES would like to thank all of you who came to the Groundwater presentation by Dr. Gilles Wendling on Friday evening (November 4th, 2011). We had an overflow crowd in a room that accommodates 180 people so there is no doubt that there is plenty of interest in this topic in the Englishman River watershed and beyond.
There will be a DVD available if anyone would like to view the presentation. Dr. Wendling's report will be posted to the website on December 1st.
We are pleased to invite you to the following presentation:
THE ENGLISHMAN RIVER AND ITS AQUIFERS understanding our groundwater for water security
With Dr. Gilles Wendling, Hydrogeologist Friday, November 4th, 2011 - Quality Resort Bayside Tidal Room - Parksville Map viewing and light refreshments at 6:30 Presentation at 7
Population growth puts increasing demand on the quality and quantity of surface and groundwater resources. Inappropriate use of one can deplete or pollute the other, therefore effective land and water management depends on having a clear understanding of where these two resources are and where they connect.
Little is known about the groundwater. According to a recent report from Simon Fraser University, less than 20 percent of Canada's groundwater sources have been mapped. We can now count the Englishman River aquifers among those that have been mapped. Thanks to Dr. Wendling's 2-year study of the aquifers in the Lower Englishman River, along with our funders, and the many residents who contributed to the study by monitoring their water wells, we now have a map showing the footprint of the aquifers and where they interact with the river water.
This presentation of the findings should be of interest not only to the many thousands of mid-Island residents who depend on the Englishman River for drinking water, but to those who want to preserve and protect its watershed.
The River Run, held on Sunday, June 12th, is considered a success by Race Coordinator, Deborah Nicol.
“Our participants were very impressed with the course and hope to be able to participate next year. Everyone that took part seemed to have a great time and even the volunteers were happy to have the opportunity to spend the morning in such beautiful surroundings.” Nicol said.
The First Annual River Run was held in the Englishman River Regional Park. Sally Whibley of Smartfitt did a warm up for the runners before the race, with the start being officiated by Bill Taylor, of the Running Room. The race began on time at 10AM. The Race had both runners and walkers that enjoyed a 5K course through the trails along the Englishman River and channels and beside a beaver dam, ending at the fish hatchery. Thrifty Foods provided a selection of fruit, juices, water, cookies and muffins for the participants. Arrowsmith Bikes had two riders patrolling the trails and keeping everyone on track.
First Place for the Men’s 5K Race was Ryan Leigh from Calgary, Alberta second place went to Gord Almond from Qualicum Beach, and third to Carson Clark from Nanaimo.
First Place for the Women’s 5K Race was Jeanna Parsons Leigh from Calgary, second place to Tanya Abel from Qualicum Beach and third place to Emma Sanderson of Errington.
Malakye and Nathaniel Abel from Qualicum Beach placed first for the kids running in the event, and third overall!
With PostNet providing Posters and Brochures, the Running Room offering their registration process online and The Rural District of Nanaimo providing one of the most beautiful settings for a race of this kind the River Run promises to be a “must attend” for local runners and walkers. All the proceeds will help fund Mid Vancouver Island Habitat Society to continue the educational programs, scientific studies and restoration programs that they are known for.
Visit the website at www.mvihes.bc.ca for a comprehensive look at what the non profit society does in our community and in the Englishman River watershed.