Nature
A temperate climate, spectacular scenery, variety of habitats and abundant wildlife make Pender Harbour ideal for experiencing and enjoying nature.
On hillsides, a lush forest canopy of mostly evergreens shelters a vigorous undergrowth of ferns, Oregon grape and salal.
Near lakes and streams, skunk cabbage, wild bleeding heart and lilies grace forest floors. Columbine, broom and wild berries thrive along roadsides.
In harsher conditions near the sea, wildflowers flourish among moss, lichen and sedum on rocky, windswept meadows.
Under the sea, a variety of plants and animals thrive in our warm waters. This, combined with the good underwater visibility, make Pender Harbour a popular diving destination.
Attractions
The Iris Griffith Interpretive Centre at Ruby Lake features displays and workshops. Learn more>>.
Ecological/Nature Reserves
Ambrose Lake Ecological Reserve
The Pender Harbour Wildlife Society (below) manages this small ecological reserve near Earl's Cove. Access, exclusively for non-invasive research and educational purposes, requires a permit from BC Parks.
Francis Point Ecological Reserve
Adjacent to Francis Point Marine Park, this 9.22 hectare ecological reserve provides undisturbed habitat for several rare-listed species of tree, moss and fern. Download .pdf document, Management Plan for Francis Point Provincial Park and Ecological Reserve.
Iris Griffith Wetlands
The Pender Harbour Growth & Development Partnership and Pender Harbour Wildlife Society transformed an inaccessible swamp in downtown Madeira Park into a public-access nature reserve. They removed debris, built a raised walkway across the newly resurrected lagoon and added benches and interpretive signage. Later (to foil the resident beavers) a fish-ladder was installed.
Affectionately known as “West Nile Pond,” this small ecosystem mostly surrounded by tall trees is home to a large number of water birds including great blue herons.
Access beside the Madeira Park Post Office or on Lagoon Road behind the church.
Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve
This 10-hectare nature reserve at Ruby Lake features a freshwater pond and forest. It’s managed by the Ruby Lake Lagoon Society (below).
Organizations
Lagoonies Nature Club
604-883-9201
For children 5-13 years, Wednesday after-school drop-in activities at the Iris Griffith Centre include educational games, pond dipping, trail walks and other nature exploration.
Pender Harbour Wildlife Society
604-883-9853
With a focus on habitat conservation, the Pender Harbour and District Wildlife Society assists in land stewardship and parks protection, supports nature initiatives and hosts guest speakers.
Activities include nature walks, bird counts, purple loose strife removal, recycling, purple martin reintroduction, Iris Griffith Wetlands project and Ambrose Lake Ecological Reserve.
Membership is $20 or $25 for a family. Everyone is welcome to meetings at Pender Harbour Secondary School, Sept-May; bring your own mug for complimentary coffee. Carole Logtenberg is president. Offsite link: Pender Harbour Wildlife Society.
Ruby Lake Lagoon Society
604-883-9893
Formed in 2002, this group’s focus is the preservation and enhancement of the wildlife of Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve and operation of the Iris Griffith Interpretive Centre.
Directors: Michael Jackson, John Field and Jeff Howlett. Offsite link: Ruby Lake Lagoon Society.
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