BACKGROUND
The Spruce Loop Trail is part of the Denman Island Park system. In 2010 several sections of land, both private and crown lands, were consolidated to form the new Denman Island BC park. This loop was created 13 years ago as part of the new BC Park. It is in the Checker-spot habitat and has a stream that drains into Beadle Creek of Denman Island.
My husband and I ride this trail year round. We noticed that the trail surface conditions were deteriorating, even more so during the winter months. Since BCH of BC has a 10 year partnership with BC parks, I reached out to Derek to have this trail approved for upgrades. I received quick responses from Horse Council BC, Parks Recreation Funds for grant funds necessary to upgrade this trail.
Our previous project in 2021 to the Pickles Road Trail on Denman Island, was a great success with many positive happy park/trail users. Today, the Pickles Road Trail sees increased year-round use and is holding up very well.
PROJECT CONTEXT
Denman Island BC park has no management plan and therefore no budget for maintenance or upgrades. For the last 13 years, all work done in the park has been by volunteers, including my husband, Aaron and myself.
Due to the extensive heavy use in the last 13 years, this trail needs to be upgraded for the continued multi-use, environment protection and longevity. This loop trail has many users, including medical rehabilitation from surgery, dog walkers, cyclists and horse training. This area is also home to the endangered Checker-spot butter fly and salmon spawning area.
Partnership Agreement with BC Parks for 10 years, From 2021 – 2031 PA 2-21-05.
We are in our 3rd year of a 10 year partnership with BC parks.
PROJECT OBJECTIVES/ACTIVITIES
To upgrade the trail surface and trim the encroaching branches and trees. This trail has been neglected for 13 years. The trail surface needs to be more sustainable surface for year-round use. Proper surface upgrading will add longevity and usability for all park users of this trail loop. There is also the maintenance of the delicate environment for the endangered Checker spot butterfly and salmon spawning creek.
Due to the huge amount of changes needed for this trail upgrade. We engaged a professional landscaping company. We needed to move a large amount of dirt/stone to insert the culvert and then move and pack rock around it. As well as tree limbing and surface vegetation reduction.
RESULTS
We have provided a year-round sustainable trail for walkers, runners, bicyclists and horseback riders. As well as maintaining the environment for the check-spot Butter-fly and salmon. The firm pack footing should provide years of use.
CONCLUSIONS
The upgrades to the trail are a huge transformation and are already greatly appreciated by the Denman Island community. The muddy and wet areas are dry and firm under foot and hoof. Dog-Walkers are happy to have a firm trail with less muddy areas.
Two signs are placed at either end of this trail. They are posted on the BC Parks posts
BCHBC North Vancouver Island chapter greatly appreciates the support from HCBC and Parks Enhancement funds towards the upgrades of the Spruce loop trail. We hope, future visitors to Denman Island will visit our unique parks and enjoy this trail.
Many many thanks go out to Kane, Glen of Beech and Cedar landscaping and Shel Brosgarrd of Excavation services for doing the integral work.
Special thanks to Jill and Sarah for trekking to Denman Is and doing trail trimming work.
