Havenwood Park

Havenwood features a mosaic of mature Douglas-fir and western redcedar forest interspersed with Garry oak and arbutus ecosystems on rocky outcrops. These habitats represent provincially red- and blue-listed ecological communities, including Douglas-fir/Arbutus and Garry oak/Arbutus associations. The park’s varied topography supports a diversity of microhabitats, such as forested slopes, riparian habitat, and open bluffs that sustain a wide range of wildlife. Common species include pileated woodpeckers, barred owls, and Pacific tree frogs, along with 68 bird species observed, and numerous pollinators that rely on the park’s structural and vegetation diversity.  

Havenwood faces ongoing ecological pressures, including invasive plant encroachment (particularly from Scotch broom and shiny geranium), habitat fragmentation and impacts from nearby developments, and the effects of climate change, such as drought and altered precipitation patterns. HAT’s stewardship efforts focus on controlling invasive species, restoring native plant communities, and improving ecosystem resilience through targeted habitat enhancement. The park provides critical wildlife habitat and ecosystem services in its region, which are fragmented and semi-urban landscapes. It also offers opportunities for community connection to nature and culturally grounded stewardship.