$5,500 to Lobrunner Park
Lohbrunner Park Project (From Joan Stewart bequest fund)
1093 Donwood Dr, Victoria, BC
In 2024, thanks to a generous bequest from Joan Stewart to the Saanich Legacy Foundation—specifically intended to support conservation efforts—Saanich Parks staff carried out a significant restoration initiative in Lohbrunner Park. The project focused on the northeast corner of the park, between the pond and the trail, where invasive species removal and native plant restoration were prioritized.
The restoration work was completed in multiple phases. A 20-square-metre patch of Yellow Archangel (Lamium galeobdolon) was removed and replanted with a range of native species, including Red Alder, Douglas Fir, Ocean Spray, June Plum, Salmonberry, Snowberry, Sword Fern, and Skunk Cabbage. In addition, 15 square metres of English Ivy and Himalayan Blackberry were cleared. Another 10 square metres of Common Periwinkle, as well as 10 square metres of English Holly, were also removed from the Site.
Two interpretive signs were installed within the park, highlighting both the significance of the bequest and the restoration work underway.
Restoration efforts are now shifting to the southwest corner of the park, where large patches of Yellow Archangel, Common Periwinkle, and English Holly still remain. Removing these species will allow native shrubs, such as Dull Oregon Grape, to re-establish and thrive.
Continued support from the Saanich Legacy Foundation makes this multi-year conservation project possible, honoring Joan Stewart’s legacy and contributing to the long-term ecological health of Lohbrunner Park.
This initiative also supports the goals of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030), a global effort to heal and restore ecosystems worldwide. SLF is proud to contribute through partnerships with donors, volunteers, and community Organizations.
Restoring ecosystems like Lohbrunner Park supports local biodiversity, improves soil and water quality,andbuilds resilience to climate impacts. It also plays a role in reconciliation by restoring native plant species connected to Indigenous knowledge.