Media Release
For Immediate Release
January 12, 2011
Resident’s Philanthropy Adds New Lands to Regional Parks System
Victoria, BC – 45.2 hectares of land have been added to the Sea to Sea Regional Park Reserve through the generous donation of local resident Dr. Joyce Clearihue, the Capital Regional District Board announced today.
“The CRD gratefully acknowledges Dr. Clearihue’s monetary donation for the acquisition of this important parcel of parkland, valued at $295,555,” said Geoff Young, CRD Board Chair. “Her philanthropy provides a legacy for the permanent protection of lands within our regional parks system for the benefit of all residents.”
The parcel will be added to the Sea to Sea Regional Park Reserve, which is divided into several parcels intersected and bounded by public and private lands. The acquired land surrounds the Charters Creek Trestle with the Galloping Goose Regional Trail passing through. It is a key property in the Western Forest Products agreement whereby the CRD and partners are seeking funds to complete the acquisition of more than 1500 hectares of land by August 2012.
As a long-time member of the Outdoor Club of Victoria, Dr. Clearihue has often hiked on the many trails in the Sea to Sea Regional Park Reserve, nestled in the Sooke Hills. The vast wilderness area comprising nearly 4,000 hectares is located in the District of Sooke and Juan de Fuca Electoral Area, and lies within the traditional territory of the T’Sou-ke Nation. Dr. Clearihue was recognized for her donation by the CRD Board at its 2011 inaugural meeting on January 12.
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For further information please contact:
Laurie Sthamann, Communications Coordinator
CRD Regional Parks
Tel: 250.360.3332 | cell: 250.889.8030
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