There were walks, talks, displays and even artwork surrounding the K’ómox Band Hall on Saturday, as Project Watershed and the Estuary Working Group celebrated the Day of the Estuary.”This is a chance to bring in the community and get everyone involved; it’s about community awareness,” said Paul Horgen of the Comox Valley Project Watershed Society. “You can learning about the estuary, see displays, maps and generally make the community more aware of how significant and valuable the estuary is,” he added.In addition to education, art, science and food, the day was also the culmination of the Keeping It Living Art Auction and Competition. The open house featured displays about restoration research projects, fish in the estuary, a mapping centre and others.Horgen noted that, of 442 estuaries in the province, the Comox Valley estuary is unique due to its location.”Out estuary is located between two major centres … it’s very special and we have to make sure not to destroy it anymore,” he said.During the evening forum, two sessions informed and educated the public about Project Watershed, offered a panel discussion on how elders view the estuary in the mid-20th century, and looked at the success story of the restoration of Nile Creek. Archeologist Nancy Green also gave a presentation about the ancient fish traps in the estuary, which Horgen added he was asked about during the afternoon’s event. Based on the success of this year’s event, Horgen said he hopes to plan another event next year.photos@comoxvalleyrecord.com

Comox Valley Record