Matthews Point Regional Park Management Plan
The CRD has approved a Management Plan for Matthews Point Regional Park on Galiano Island. It will guide park management, development, and use over the next 15 years. The final management plan was considered by the Regional Parks Committee and approved by the CRD Board on September 19, 2018.
Highlights of the management plan
Park vision: Matthews Point Regional Park is recognized as a small gem within the larger island landscape. The park maintains the natural character along a portion of Active Pass, providing a natural viewscape for those travelling on the water. Further, it provides Galiano residents and visitors opportunities to connect with nature and helps protect the Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystem. Together with adjacent natural areas, the regional park is part of a wider natural area network that facilitates a healthy community.”
Key management actions
The park will be developed and managed over time primarily to keep the park natural, with minimal visitor facilities and services. Trail opportunities will be provided as the primary means for the public to experience the park.
- Remove the former landowner’s shed and related infrastructure.
- Formalize the Ridge Trail route as the main trail opportunity in the park and permit hiking and horseback riding on it.
- Develop hiking-only trail links to the adjacent Bluff Park and to the adjacent Matthews Shore Access Trail, and close other informal trails in this area of the park.
- Develop a primary park entrance at the west park access, including an information kiosk, small parking area (3-4 cars), bike rack, and toilet.