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Protecting Land

The Coastal Douglas-fir ecosystem covering Salt Spring Island is one of the rarest ecosystems in Canada and only 2% is protected. Over 45 rare or endangered species that live in this ecosystem have been found on Salt Spring. With 90% of the land on Salt Spring in private hands, the actions of individuals are vital in protecting this unique landscape.

You can help protect the land you live on--no matter what size it is, or whether you rent or own. The SSI Conservancy will be glad to help you decide which approach is right for you.

Stewardship Agreement

A Stewardship Agreement with the Conservancy is a less formal way to agree to manage the land according to good ecological practice.

Conservation Covenant

You may wish to continue to own and manage the land while protecting it by a Conservation Covenant , which endures through changes in ownership .

NAPTEP (Natural Areas Protection Tax Exemption Program) provides island homeowners with the opportunity to receive a 65% property tax exemption on whatever portion of their property is protected through a NAPTEP covenant. The program is run by the Islands Trust Fund.

Donate the Land

The most secure way is to donate the land to a Conservancy like SSIC whose mandate is to preserve the land in its natural state for perpetuity. The Conservancy owns and manages nature reserves, holds conservation covenants, and has been a major contributor to purchases of thousands of acres of Island lands.

Tax Benefits

Donation of land or covenant may result in tax benefits. See the Land Trust Alliance of British Columbia brochure: Tax Benefits of your Conservation Donation.

Donation of ecologically sensitive land may qualify as an 'EcoGift' that provides special income tax benefits. For more information see The Ecological Gifts Program of Environment Canada.

The Land Trust Alliance of British Columbia provides education, research and services which support land trusts, conservancies and other agencies, organizations and individuals dedicated to the stewardship and conservation of our natural and cultural heritage.