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Ladysmith, BC — The Town of Ladysmith is pleased to announce that it has been approved for a grant of up to $5,000 through BC Hydro’s Community ReGreening Program to support the Methuen Street Garry Oak Glade project.
Delivered in partnership with Friends of Holland Creek, the Methuen Street Garry Oak Glade project focuses on restoring areas around Holland Creek with native plants which support the local ecosystems. The Methuen site, located at 533 Methuen Street and known by Friends of Holland Creek as "Sunny Glades", was cleared of Scotch broom over the last three years and will be restored with Garry Oaks, native shrubs and meadow flowers. The site will be prepared over the summer months and planted in the fall of 2026 when cooler weather occurs.
“We’re grateful for the support from BC Hydro and the continued partnership with Friends of Holland Creek to help restore and protect these important natural areas in our community,” says Mayor Deena Beeston.
“BC Hydro is proud to support this project through our Community ReGreening Grant. There’s something truly special in the energy of Ladysmith—a town built on genuine connection and shared stewardship,” says Ted Olynyk, BC Hydro’s Manager of Community Relations Vancouver Island - Sunshine Coast.
The Community ReGreening Program grant will help move restoration efforts forward at the site by supporting the planting of native species and improving ecological conditions to promote biodiversity. Funding will cover the cost of plant materials for the project. The Town of Ladysmith will contribute storage, mulch, and signage for the project while Friends of Holland Creek will source the plants, coordinate volunteers, and provide the necessary tools and equipment.
"We are excited to have the Town of Ladysmith and BC Hydro’s support of our vision to protect Holland Creek and for having this space to demonstrate good restoration practices. We are also grateful to Stantec Consulting Ltd. and their Dollars for Doers, which will fund the ‘Tools for Schools’ component so we can engage the local schools. We look forward to Sunny Glades becoming another source of inspiration and education to encourage the use of native plants in yards and public spaces,” says Nikki Toxopeus, Friends of Holland Creek Treasurer and Board Member.
The project builds on recent fuel mitigation work completed in the Holland Creek area by Emergency Management Cowichan last year, which reduced the wildfire risk while improving overall forest health and community safety.
The Methuen Street Garry Oak Glade project also contributes to the long-term conservation of one of British Columbia’s most at-risk ecosystems, while creating opportunities for community involvement and environmental education.
“The Town of Ladysmith is proud to play an active role in protecting one of British Columbia’s most treasured ecosystems. Safeguarding this important habitat will help ensure it remains healthy, resilient, and protected for generations to come,” says Nicholas Pescod, the Town’s Communication & Engagement Specialist.
The Town of Ladysmith respectfully acknowledges that we gather and work on the unceded territory of the Stz'uminus First Nation, the traditional keepers of this land.
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Media Contact Nicholas Pescod Communications & Engagement Specialist npescod@ladysmith.ca 250-268-0606