Esquimalt Lagoon Migratory Bird Sanctuary
The Esquimalt Lagoon Migratory Bird Sanctuary is a migratory bird sanctuary near Esquimalt Harbour in Colwood, British Columbia. The Esquimalt Lagoon is found on the traditional territories of the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations. The park was established in 1931 with the objective of creating a safe haven for migratory birds, and has become a popular place for birdwatching. Many other species can be found within the park, such as coho salmon and cutthroat trout. Pacific herring also spawn in nearby waters. History Archaeological findings suggest that the native Esquimalt and Songhees peoples have a longstanding connection to the Esquimalt Lagoon and Coburg Peninsula. For thousands of years, these Indigenous communities occupied and utilized the lagoon for subsistence, and spiritual purposes. The area provided abundant resources such as fish, birds, mammals, berries, roots, tubers, and clam beds at the lagoon's entrance for harvest. European influence in the area began in 1854 with the establishment of a British naval base and firing range. The Gold Rush of 1858 brought a influx of settlers to the region, leading to the establishment of farms and industries. In 1931 the Esquimalt Lagoon Migratory Bird Sanctuary was established with the purpose of protecting migratory species of birds that travel through the pacific by providing a safe space for them to roost. Currently, the lagoon is used by residents and tourists alike for outdoor activities such as kayaking and scuba diving, as well as watching its unique wildlife. Indigenous background The lagoon lies on the territory of the Esquimalt and the Songhees Nation, and nearby resides the Beecher Bay Nation. These nations gathered plant resources, including essential materials, root tubers, and berries from the shoreline and harbour. They also used the land the hunt, fish, and collect shellfish. It is reported that the nations split their time between the Esquimalt lagoon and the Gulf and San Juan Islands based on the seasons. In 1849 Aboriginal Title was recognized and Esquimalt Nation was one of fourteen nations to sign the Douglas treaty over 150 years ago. Though they retain Aboriginal Title under the Douglas treaty and the right to hunt on unoccupied land, Esquimalt Nation has identified one of it's current challenges as understanding what these rights mean for them if resources are no longer available due to urban development; including forest and fisheries management. Objectives Established on December 12, 1931, The Esquimalt Lagoon Migratory bird Sanctuary was created in Colwood, British Columbia with the objective of providing a safe haven for migratory birds on the Pacific coast. Due to its shallow tidal waters, the abundant shelter and resources found within, and due to having two gravel-bar islands and a rocky outcrop for loafing, the Esquimalt Lagoon sanctuary has become one of the most important Birding spots in the region. Climate change Climate change will affect the Esquimalt Lagoon through rising sea-levels and temperatures, which causes a loss of habitat. The intertidal marsh is considered to be acting resilient against climate change. The salt marsh acts as a