In 1997, the Capital Regional District Environment Committee endorsed a regional watershed management strategy which prioritized various watersheds for the development of a management plan. The need for a watershed management plan for Bowker Creek was identified as a high priority. The Bowker Creek watershed is in the Capital Region and the creek extends from the University of Victoria through the District of Saanich and the City of Victoria, and discharges to the sea through the District of Oak Bay.
In 2002, the CRD convened a forum of government agencies, community organizations, landowners and residents to develop an integrated watershed management plan for Bowker Creek. The forum participants recognized the need to protect and value characteristics of the Bowker Creek watershed. Public input was sought and the final plan reflects the views of the forum and members of the public.
In 2003, the municipalities of Saanich, Oak Bay and Victoria, and the CRD Board approved the Bowker Creek Watershed Management Plan (BCWMP). In 2004 a steering committee, responsible for moving forward the implementation of the BCWMP, was created and a part-time coordinator hired to provide support to municipal staff and the community. And with that, the Bowker Creek Urban Watershed Renewal Initiative (BCI) was borne.
.jpg?sfvrsn=3e6c96c9_2 "BCI members developing options for the Bowker Creek Blueprint")
Thanks to the support of staff, community members and elected officials, implementation of the plan has been moving ahead. Many key projects have now been completed and more work is planned. With the municipal endorsement of the Bowker Creek Blueprint in 2012, many suggested watershed wide principles and specific actions are identified so they can be incorporated when opportunities arise.