About this Event
Garry Oak ecosystems are cultural spaces that evolved under the care of local Indigenous Peoples. They are recognized places of Indigenous spirituality, knowledge, history and sustenance. They are also home to the highest biodiversity of any terrestrial ecosystem in British Columbia and to the most species at risk. In Canada, they are confined to southeastern Vancouver Island, the nearby Gulf Islands and two isolated spots in the Fraser River Valley. Across their full range stretching into California, they are globally imperilled.
The annual Garry Oak Ecosystems Gathering aims to bring together First Nations, researchers, practitioners, governments, community members and students who are actively involved or interested in restoring oak and associated ecosystems. This year's event continues the important work towards building relationships between our historical membership and the First Nations on whose traditional territories we conduct our work.
Our desire is to help nurture an ethical space in which our we can come together and be united in doing our work in a good way. The day will weave together important teachings with time for questions, discussion and refection.
We are honoured for Scott Sam of W̱JOȽEȽP Nation to lead the day in protocol and songs. Over the day, there will be presentations on a range of topics from distinguished speakers including:
Beangka Elliott (W̱SÁNEĆ Nation)
Knowledge Keeper
Bobbi-Jo Basarab (Hwlitsum Nation) and Adam Huggins
Galiano Conservancy Q’úyél q’úwen (Restoring the Balance) Project
Kate McIntyre, Jiaju Wu and Ryan Senechal (Garry Oak Meadow Preservation Society, University of British Columbia)
Remote Sensing: a collaboration to accurately locate and measure Garry Oak trees in Saanich and Victoria
Kristen Miskelly and David Krug (Satinflower Nurseries)
Local Native Seed Supply Research for Prairie Oak Restoration
Nancy Shackelford and Darcy Matthews (University of Victoria)
The importance of integrating archaeology and heritage into restoration thinking
The program will include breaks throughout the day with ample time to enjoy refreshments and connect with other participants.
The price of admission includes a delicious premium boxed lunch catered by Songhees Events and Catering. Participants will be able to choose their preferred lunch protein, and notify us of any dietary restrictions at check-out.
Registration begins at 8:00 am and the gathering will begin at 9:00 am. Coffee will be available.
Self-identified Indigenous attendees are eligible for complimentary registration. We also have a modest fund to help reduce financial barriers and support Indigenous participation in the Gathering.
Individuals who register as Indigenous attendees will be contacted directly by email to discuss whether financial assistance would help make attendance possible. Please note that support funds are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Throughout the weekend there will be opportunities to gather on the land and learn about restoration projects from local land stewards, as well as more chances to socialize and connect as a community. More details on these activities will be shared on our event page in the coming weeks.
CALL FOR POSTERS: There is still availabilty to display posters for work and/or research being done in oak meadow and associated ecosystems. Contact [email protected] for more info.
This year's gathering has been made possible through the generous support of our sponsors:
- Castilleja Conservation Society
- The Capital Regional District
- The District of Saanich
- The District of Oak Bay
- Donations in memory of Dave Polster
- Friends of Uplands Park
- Grasslands Conservation Council of British Columbia
- Satinflower Nurseries
- Streamside Native Plants
- Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary
- University of Victoria
Event venue & nearby stays
David Turpin Building, A120, 3800 Finnerty Road, Victoria, Canada
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