The upgraded Brant viewing area, to be dedicated to the memory of the Qualicum Beach Streamkeepers founder Faye Smith, is now open to the public.
Closed since March 5, the site, located just north along the Island Highway past Crescent Road West in Qualicum Beach, now boasts a covered pavilion and interpretive displays.
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It was opened to the public in mid-August, said David James, the streamkeepers’ president. Work remains to be done on the site, he said, including the planting of several hundred native plants and trees, benches, a fence and more.
An official opening dedication is scheduled for Sept. 23 (B.C. Rivers Day) at noon.
Smith passed away March 23, 2017, and is remembered as a dedicated environmental activist. She worked to restore Pacific salmon to Vancouver Island watersheds.
Qualicum Beach’s town council approved supporting the viewing area upgrade project up to $100,000, while the City of Parksville agreed to provide $2,500, adding to the streamkeepers’ nearly $90,000. Once finished, the streamkeepers will transfer ownership of the pavilion to the town.