Esquimalt Lagoon is located in a federal Migratory Bird Sanctuary and provides food and rest to many birds including great blue heron.
Large numbers of seabirds, shorebirds, and waterfowl can be found at Esquimalt Lagoon year-round, and it is an important stopover for birds migrating on the Pacific Flyway.
A group of people on the shoreline examine a bucket of water containing marine animals.
ELSI Stewardship Resources
ELSI works to promote awareness and information-sharing about Esquimalt Lagoon and its watersheds among its partners and across the broader public. The following resources are available to support stewardship activities and build public awareness of the lagoon.
ELSI has developed a series of informative brochures that outline the watersheds that drain to the lagoon, the sensitive ecosystems surrounding the lagoon and the environmental concerns at the lagoon.
The ELSI Brochure [PDF/2.3MB] highlights the environmental values at Esquimalt Lagoon, describes ELSI and discusses the Stewardship Plan.
The ELSI Residents Brochure [PDF/1.7MB] describes how pollution travels through the lagoon watershed and offers tips to minimize polluted runoff from residential property.
The ELSI Visitors Brochure [PDF/1MB] targets visitors to the lagoon, and includes a map of the lagoon's ecological values and sensitive areas. It provides tips to minimize visitor impact to the lagoon habitats and wildlife.
These annual reports highlight work done annually by ELSI and partners.
ELSI partners have developed a Stewardship Plan for Esquimalt Lagoon to provide a coordinated restoration and stewardship program for the area to prevent the loss and destruction of habitat, disturbance to wildlife and to reduce contaminant inputs. This plan is designed to promote community stewardship and implement solution-oriented actions that will protect, enhance and restore the health and beauty of this significant ecosystem.
The Interim Management Guidelines for the Coburg Peninsula provides interim recommendations for the management of the Coburg Peninsula at Esquimalt Lagoon, based on consultations with the public, landowners, and other stakeholders. The guidelines were adopted by the City of Colwood in February 2007.
Vision Statement
The Coburg Peninsula will remain an outstanding example of an ecologically diverse barrier spit. People will enjoy a variety of recreational activities, while treating the natural and cultural features with respect.
The following is a non-exhaustive list of research studies that have been conducted at Esquimalt Lagoon. The unique geographic and biological features of the lagoon offer many opportunities for further research. Previous research studies could be potential launching points for further research. New areas of potential research are listed at the bottom of this document.
The CRD conducts its business within the Territories of many First Nations, all of whom have a long-standing relationship with the land and waters from time immemorial that continues to this day. Statement of Reconciliation
