FEELING FRESH
A special Slo-Pitch Tournament last weekend provided a big boost to a special local institution, the Bowen Island Food Bank. More than $8,000 was raised which will help stock fresh food at the Food Bank for well over a year to come Some of the special organizers of the event include (L-R) Jared Brown, Jesse Lyon, Jax Strong, Calvin Hull, Seanna Strubin & Shannon Farley. Check out Page 5 for a thank you note to everybody who made the Food Bank tournament possible / Submitted photo
JANE SEYD North Shore News
An incident that involved a police emergency response team talking down a distressed man on board a BC Ferry in Horseshoe Bay resulted in multiple cancelled ferry sailings, closure of the area to marine traffic and chaos for travellers over several hours on Sunday.
The incident began just before noon on Sunday in Horseshoe Bay, where a man was seen standing on an upper railing of the Queen of Surrey as it sat in dock
West Vancouver Police said officers were called to the ferry terminal to help with an incident involving an individual in distress, later calling in help from other agencies, including the Vancouver Police Department Emergency Response Team, the VPD Marine Unit, Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue Station 1, and BC Emergency Health Services.
The Queen of Surrey was held on the ferry at the terminal while emergency response officers talked the man down over six hours.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
AllCouncilmeetingsareopen tothepublictoattendin personorelectronically,unless notedotherwise
April 27,2026 1:00 pm
May 11, 2026 1:00 pm
OurferrymarshalsworkhardinchallengingconditionstokeepSnug Coveoperatingsafelyandassmoothlyaspossible,particularly duringpeaktraveltimesandservicedisruptions.Whensailingsare cancelledordelayed,theirjobbecomessignificantlymoredifficult astheymanageincreasedcongestionandheightenedfrustration Aggressiveordisrespectfulbehaviourtowardthemwillnotbe tolerated.
Theferrymarshalprogramwasestablishedinresponseto communityneedforadditionalon-sitesupport,andtheseworkers playanimportantroleinassistingthepublicandmaintainingsafe, orderlyoperationsinSnugCove.Theydeservetobetreatedwith respectatalltimes
Understandingandpatiencegoalongwayinensuringthisprogram cancontinuetosupportourcommunityandkeepthecove functioningsafelyandeffectively
Nexttimeyouseeaferrymarshalonduty,considerofferingawave, asmile,akindword,orevenaquickhigh-fivetoletthemknowhow muchourcommunityappreciatestheworktheydo.
BIMhasavacancyforafull-time,permanent ManagerofInfrastructure.Therightcandidate forthispositionwillhaveregisteredstatusas aProfessionalEngineerwiththeEngineers Geoscientists(BC),andrelevantexperience inacivilsetting.Wewillcontinuetoaccept applicationsuntilthepositionhasbeenfilled.
UsetheQRcodetoreadtheposition descriptionorvisit:https://bowenislandmunicipality.ca/jobs/
Toapplytothisposition,pleasesendacoverletterandresume, alongwithanyquestions,toKatalinaStephens,HRCoordinator,at hr@bimbc.ca.
1:00PMonMONDAY,April27th,2026 intheConferenceRoomattheCommunityCentreorviaZoom
ADevelopmentVariancePermitapplicationhasbeensubmittedfor 994WindjammerRoad(shownonmap)toallowforanincreasein maximumlotcoverage.
Theirapplicationistorequestanincreasetothemaximumlot coveragefrom320m2to335m2.Theapplicantwishestobuilda housewithaswimmingpoolwiththeexistingdeckstructures
YourCommentsAreWelcome
WrittensubmissionsmaybedeliveredtotheMunicipalOfficesatthe BowenIslandCommunityCentreby11:00amonthemeetingdatein person,bymail,byfax,orbyemailtomayorandcouncil@bimbc.ca. SubmissionsmayalsobemadetoMayorandCouncilatthemeeting:
Seewww.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/council-meetingsformore informationabouttheCouncilMeetingincludinghowtowatchthe meetingviaZoom.
ShouldCouncilproceedwiththisapplication,therewillbefurther opportunitytoshareyourcommentsontheapplication,andwe wouldshareadditionalinformationonhowtoprovideyour comments
QUESTIONS?
PleasecontactXerxesAu,Planner1at604-947-4255ext.247orby emailatxau@bimbc.caorvisit:
www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca/planning/
ALEX KURIAL Editor
An island artist and designer has added the task of operating a storefront to her upcoming projects
Caroline Hurd set up Modern Mending in Artisan Square early this year, taking over the space previously occupied by Annie Arbuckle and The Working Dog. Spending her career in fashion design, she is using the opportunity not only to perform traditional mending and alteration jobs, but also to fuel her passion for the design side of the craft.
Hurd grew up in Montreal and went on to study fashion design in England and Italy before returning to Canada to work for fashion agencies in her hometown. Landing on Bowen in 2006, she is now celebrating 20 years on the island - the benchmark Islanders often joke makes you an official local.
After taking time to raise her three children, Caroline returned to fashion in earnest during the pandemic with
custom jobs for people she knew. Having established a customer base, and with her kids older and more independent, she felt the time was right to move into a physical store. Hurd also mentions the desire to find more working space than her daughter’s bedroom provided as a motivating factor
“This is new for me because when I was working as a designer I was working in a head office I didn’t do any customer service work,” she explains. “This is what I love about the alteration and custom work - that I’m helping individuals with their specific needs. It requires brain power and problem solving.”
Caroline’s work is influenced by two major personal ideals: attempting to address the perils of ‘fast fashion’ , and emphasizing that there are comfortable and fashionable clothes for all body types. The first issue is one which arose after Hurd entered into the industry, with companies such as Zara and H&M producing collections at a much higher pace than previous norms.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
ALEX KURIAL Editor
The All Wheels Skate Day has a special venue this Sunday at the Colin Ruloff Community Field House.
The April edition of the monthly event is placing an emphasis on Earth Day (April 22) and the ongoing Fix-It Month on Bowen. In addition to the usual ramps and obstacle courses, the all-ages event will also have the opportunity to learn about repairs and the many benefits of choosing wheels other than cars to get around.
The All Wheels Society has been busy advocating for a new terrain park on the island to support all types of wheeled activity including bikes, skateboards and scooters Partnering with Bowen Recreation, the groups have been hosting monthly Skate Days at various locations, but were looking for a safe, covered venue. Island Pacific School head of school Brad Carter suggested the Community Field House at IPS for the next event.
“A growing agenda here at the school is being mindful about our island; keeping people safe and being respectful of the environment. And how do we signal that in an
authentic way with the kids?” says Carter. He says bike safety will also be on the agenda, particularly regarding the topic of youth whizzing down Bowen Island Trunk Road at high speeds
Carter explains that the convergence of Earth Day with local Fix-It events will allow for plenty of good ground to be covered, in addition to the typical wheeled fun.
“Instead of putting demands on resources to buy new things, let’s fix the stuff we have to keep it going longer. We’re not polluting the environment with engines and we’re not chucking stuff out,” says Carter
“One of the things I like to talk about is the idea of Healthy Me, Healthy Planet If I’m biking or walking to work I keep myself healthy, and that same action helps keep the planet healthy as well,” he adds.
“Marking Earth Day with something like an All Wheels Event not only gets your wheels ready for Spring, but it also signals to the kids that moving around by bike or skateboard or other wheels is a good, eco-friendly way to move.”
The All Wheels Skate Day takes place on Sunday, April 26 from 2 to 4 pm at the Colin Ruloff Community Field House at Island Pacific School.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Ferries between Horseshoe Bay and the Sunshine Coast, Bowen Island and Nanaimo were also cancelled for that time, and other boat traffic in Horseshoe Bay was also restricted Passengers on board the Queen of Capilano, which had been held in dock in Horseshoe Bay, were able to disembark the ferry, according to BC Ferries.
Several water taxis were also put into service for foot passengers during the disruption
Police eventually took the man into custody on board the ferry under the Mental Health Act and took him to hospital Ferries eventually resumed between Horseshoe Bay and all three destinations, and additional ferries were added Sunday night, but travel backups and delays continued into Monday.
“We know this was a long and frustrating day for customers, with sailings impacted for several hours and significant delays across the system,” said BC Ferries spokesperson Shiryn Sayani.
A big hats off to everybody involved in the Slo-Pitch Tournament over the weekend benefitting the Food Bank An incredible amount of money was raised (see Margaret Gray accepting a big cheque on behalf of the Food Bank below) for a very important service on our island. The Food Bank can be supported throughout the year, and is open 24/7 at the Bowen Island United Church at 1122 Miller Road. Speaking of baseball the local Fastpitch League gets going this Sunday with a tripleheader of games starting at 11 am. The teams will then be in action most days of the week for the next several months leading up to the always popular tournament weekend in August The Slo-Pitch League starts May 9 too, so the field will be quite buzzing with activity going forward. Also buzzing is the local performance scene, with the Lady Madrigal Singers in concert this Friday, the final two shows of All’s Well Friday & Saturday, and Community Choir concerts on May 9. Find these and many more island events in the Calendar Have a great week!
- Alex Kurial, Editor
THE WRITE STUFF. The Undercurrent encourages reader participation
(for
The editor reserves the right to edit for clarity, legality, brevity and taste. Please limit to under 500 words. HERE’S HOW: To submit a letter to the editor, fax 604-947-0148 or mail it to PO Box 130, Bowen Island, BC, V0N 1G0 or email editor@bowenislandundercurrent.com
All Advertising and news copy content are copyright of the Undercurrent Newspaper All editorial content submitted to the Undercurrent becomes the property of the publication. The Undercurrent is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, art work and photographs
National NewsMedia Council.
The Undercurrent is a member of the National NewsMedia Council of Canada, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour If you have concerns about editorial content, please email editor@ bowenislandundercurrent.com or call 604-947-2442. If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the website at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.
CAROLINE PARKER Contributor
To the Editor,
As anyone who’sspent time around Bowen’sball field knows,our island is blessed with big-heartedplayers with astrong senseofcommunity.
This past weekend,thatgoodwill and energy raised more than $8,000for the BowenIsland Food Bank through athreedayMixed Slo-Pitch Tournamentfeaturing homegrownand mainland teams
Thesuccessofthis Feed Em Fresh fundraiser will enable theFoodBank to significantlyexpand the fresh fruit and vegetables it provides to thoseinneed in ourcommunity. Huge thankstothe Bowen Island Slo-Pitch League and volunteerorganizers JaredBrown,Seanna Strubin, JaxStrong, Calvin Hull, Nadia Buchner,LindaPfeiff,Shannon Farley,and Jesse Lyon.
Also to the generous sponsors Madrona Fine Homes,The Phoenix Company, Weismiller Excavation, Twin Island Excavation, TheBowen Island Real Estate Group, Re/Max MastersRealty, BowenFreight, TheBowen Island Legion, TheRuddyPotato,USSCMarina, DocMorgan’sRestaurant, Anchorage RoastingCo.,Hoyne BrewingCompany, TheBowen Island Film Society, Strong Counseling, Sims Mechanical Services, and individual donorsBradBernstein andErinOlson.
Specialthanksaswell to theFood Bank’s lead volunteer (andSlo-Pitch fan) Margaret Gray forhelping to launch theFeedEm Freshfundraiser. We aregratefulthat the Food Bank volunteerteamhas such strong leadershipand adeepbench.
Sincerely,
-CarolineParker Food Bank Liaison, Bowen Island United Church Board
Islandpoet Pauline Le Belhas seen one of herpoems take flight all the wayto Toronto. ‘Blooming’-fromher new poetrycollection ‘Becomingthe Harvest’wasselected to appear at transit locations in Canada’slargest city,including this one in thesubway. /Alan Walker photo
Jangoisour Patientofthe Week, and he brought plenty of personalitywithhim! This adventurous pupcame in for some limpinginhis back legs, butyou’d never guess it from hisupbeat attitude. When he’s notvisitingus, Jangoisbusy “runningthe show”over at Wild Wood Cabins,keeping aclose eye on everything—including onemischievousduckthat especially loves to bughim. We’rehelping him get back to full speed so he canreturn tohis important duties (and keep up with that feathery troublemaker)!
LESLIE STUBBS
Thursday ArtGroup (TAG)
Thepaintinggroup’s meetinglocationhas changed severaltimes from whereitoriginatedat Collins Hall in the‘80’s asthe TuesdayArt Workshop (TAW), butthe purposeofthe grouphas neverchanged.It’sa gatheringofself-directedartists doingtheir ownprojects with thesupport andencouragementofthe rest of the group.
After leavingtheir location at CollinsHall they metat BowenCourt for many years, even holdingart shows regularly therebeforemovingto thegallery that is nowthe Hearth in Snug Cove
Along-termmemberofthe artgroup,Robyn Culter, started with TAWinthe 2000’satBowen Court. Shehas painted inall mediums butnow worksinpencil, acrylicsand watercolour,using pets,animals and subjects that areimportant to her.Robyn likes that everyone in thegroup is freeto do their ownthing, and that she candropinwhenevershe wants. Shementionedthat theopensharing of techniques at TAGsessions is acomfortableway to learn.“ThetipsI’ve received from other artists have been invaluable.”
Shelaughs when she tells thestory from herearly days.A couple of groupmembers who were both quitedeafwould have loud and livelyconversations,yellingacrossthe room to each other.“Half the time theyweren’t even talking about the same thing!” she declared Robynemphasizedthatbaked goodswerereallyimportanttothat earlygroup.Itwas acompetition as members rotatedthe responsibilitytobring in some freshhome baking. Thesharing of goodies is acontinuingtradition at TAGwhereatasty cookie or quality chocolateis thoroughlyappreciated.
John Hoover is arecent additiontothe group, bringing his fascination with mixed mediatogether with hissketchingand acrylic paintingskills. Heresearchesnew techniques online andthen puts them into practice.Johnhas
just finished aproject wherehehad apublicdomain photo printedoncanvastowhichheappliedatexturedcut outof awhale he painted, creatingathoughtfulimage ofawhale swimming in space.
DeannaAdams hasbeenamembersincebefore COVID, doingwildlife and landscape paintings.Havingdonesculpture in the past,Deannanow worksmostlyinpencil,watercolour and acrylics.“It’s funtohaveaplace to work with othersand be inspired.” Shelikes the camaraderie of TAG artists. During COVIDDeannaappreciatedthe zoomworkshops organized and taught by MarieNeys, enjoying the chance to work with the groupagain.
Thereare anumberofpeoplewho have participated in TAGwho have movedonorcan onlyattend sporadically. It’s worthmentioningJan Willem vander Wal, whopainted with thegroup over decades and offered classeson Boweninpouring bronze for many years. Originally from theNetherlands,Jan Willem hassummeredinhis home on Bowen, holding classesathis small forge there.
Grace Wong, LauraKoch, and Greta Smith have allcontributed to TAG, showing and sellingtheir work at shows andinthe BowenArtsTourinthe first twoyears ofthe tour Theseare just afew ofthe artists who have roundedout the painting group.
MarieNeys, artist,artseducator, and generousmentortomanyartists on Bowenwas arecentmemberofthe ThursdayArt Group. “I likedthe relaxing environment and meeting like-mindedcreativesouls.” Joiningjustbefore COVIDhit and thelockdown started, Marieorganizedand taught zoom workshops everyweek forthe artgroup.She providedphotostothe groupofthe projectsthattheywere workingon(e.g. irises,waves,arbutus trees), leavingthem at aplace wheretheycould be picked up or she woulddrop them off at people’shouses.
Once the lockdownendedthe paintinggroup hadtoleave their meeting place at thegallerythatisnow theHearthand moved back to wherethe groupstarted at CollinsHall.This is when the meeting date changedtoThursdays and they
BOWEN ISLANDUNITED CHURCH
became TAG.
Mariecontinuedtoleadmultiple workshopsand organizedguest artists to comeand teach, encouragingafew TAGmembers to teach as well. Workshopsincludedbasics in watercolour, fun acrylic paintpouring, and collagefor example.“Theworkshops helpedgivethe artists newtechniquesand points of viewand offered instructorsachance to showcase their skills.”
Marie’senergy and boundlesscreativeinitiativemade a significantimpact on TAGartists in the yearsshe participated with the group. Her presence on Thursday mornings is missed as shetakes more time forfamilyand to travel.
As oneofthe foundingorganizers of the BowenArtsTour, MarieNeysiscurrently busy with tour preparations as well as creatingartworksfor the show.Now in itsthirdyear, the two-daytourwilltakeplace on May23&24in2026. The Thursday ArtGroup is pleased to be apartofthe BowenArts Tour at Collins Hall as Hub7with four artistsparticipating. Thelastinthis series of articles on the Thursday Art Groupwillintroduce youtothe four TAGartists who are showcasingtheir varied work at the BowenArtsTour, and providedetails of what fun youcan look forwardtoby comingout to CollinsHall
Sunday Worship 10:30 am Rev.LorraineAshdown
www.biuc.ca |1122 Miller Road 778-688-2061
Contact Angela Powell 604-947-2515
OR BYAPPOINTMENT Contact aryana.rayne@gmail.com •www.shirathayam.ca
SundayMassat10:00 Sunday Worship10:00 www.cateshillchapel.com 604-947-4260 (661 Carter Rd.) office@cateshillchapel.com
SHIRAT HAYAM (Song ofthe Sea)
BOWEN’SJEWISHCOMMUNITY
Shabbat Gatherings ~Holidays
DEPART B 5:15 am ex 6:15 am ex 7:30 am ex 8:45 am 10:00am 11:15am 12:35pm 1:55 pm 3:15 pm 4:40 pm -exceptWednesdays 6:00 pm 7:15 pm 8:25 pm -exceptSaturdays 9:30 pm 10:30pm 11:30pm
DEPART HORSESHOEBAY 5:45 am except 6:50 am except 8:05 am 9:20 am -exceptWednesdays 10:35 am 11:55 am 1:10 pm 2:35 pm 3:55 pm 5:20 pm 6:35 pm 7:50 pm 8:55 pm -exceptSaturdays 10:00pm 11:00pm
Where’sthe ferry right now? -liveupdatesatwww.bowenferry.ca Schedule changesonstatutory holidays. Stay up to date at www.bcferries.com
JAMI SCHEFFER
The Hearth Gallery
To mark the beginning of Spring, artists Kelly Ballard and Pip Adams join together to bring two different approaches to the natural world. A vibrant and exciting show of paintings and poetry depicting their interpretations of nature all around us
American artist Kelly Ballard, creates paintings of beautifully drawn insects and butterflies. She uses watercolour medium to capture the intricate markings, colours and significant features of a cacophony of bugs, moths, grasshoppers, butterflies and beetles.
Like a Victorian collectors library of arthropods. Her paintings depict delicate, iridescent beetles, complex butterflies and all the unique designs from the tiny, often hidden world of nature.
British artist Pip Adams, paints large and small scale expressive florals She combines vintage jugs, everyday household objects with billowy, untamed bunches of flowers. She endeavors to create the feeling they have been collected from the road side or an abundant garden and pushed unarranged and haphazard like nature, into a simple, decorative, old vase.
The flowers being the centre piece. As wild in the house as out. She also interprets the wild open meadows, flowers, grasses, weeds all growing together producing a carpet of natural beauty
In this exhibition both elements of the artist’s work feed and nurture each other. Reflecting nature, insects, butterflies and flowers are dependant and inter-
twined. Kelly and Pip present the two hand-in-hand. A “Garden Party” of colour, shape, texture and natural beauty Bringing the outside inside
The Garden Party art show at the Hearth Gallery is on now until May 11, with an Artist pARTy with the artists at the gallery on Saturday, April 25 from 6 to 8 pm
If you care about Bowen’s wildlife, forests, wetlands, creeks, and shoreline, the new Nexwlélexwm/Bowen Island Biodiversity Plan is worth your attention.
For the first time, Bowen has an island-wide, evidence-based picture of where biodiversity is concentrated, where it is under pressure, and where the choices we make now could have the greatest effect That is a major step forward.
For years, Bowen has said that wildlife and environmental protection are among our core values But values alone do not tell us where to focus effort, where protection is most needed, or how to make better land use and stewardship decisions before options narrow This plan helps fill that gap.
The Bowen Island Conservancy, the National Science and Engineering Research Council, Simon Fraser University, and the Sitka Foundation all supported the development of this valuable report. Authored by Dr. Wendy Palen, Dr. Tom Sisk, and Jay Matsushiba of Simon Fraser University, the plan brings together government data, academic research, and local knowledge into one practical tool.
Its value lies not just in what it contains, but in what it
allows Bowen to do: work from good information instead of guesswork.
In plain terms, the Biodiversity Plan shows what is most ecologically valuable across the island. It looks at Bowen as a whole and identifies relative conservation value in a consistent, transparent way. That gives residents, landowners, the Conservancy, and the Municipality a stronger shared starting point for conversations that are often difficult, and sometimes divisive.
Instead of relying mostly on assumptions, anecdotes, or what happens to be visible from the road, we now have a much clearer picture of biodiversity priorities across Bowen.
Several findings stand out.
First, Bowen really is ecologically significant. British Columbia is the most biodiverse province in the country, and Bowen sits within the most diverse part of B.C. The plan places Bowen in that larger context, then zooms in to show the island’s own patterns in fine detail.
Second, although Bowen has important parks and protected areas, many of its highest-value biodiversity areas are not protected. The plan found that about 80 per cent of the island’s highest conservation value areas fall outside the current network of parks and protected areas. That means biodiversity outcomes on Bowen will not be shaped by protected lands alone
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
While the approach provides more clothes quicker, it has caused environmental damage through the manufacturing process along with many of these clothes ending up in landfills after limited wear.
Hurd lives by the ‘Cradle to Cradle’ model, which encourages newly manufactured clothes to either be biodegradable or have the potential to be recycled into something new. An example Caroline gives is trying to buy clothes made out of singular items such as cotton, rather than mixed-textile items which are hard to recycle and often end up being thrown out.
She says well-taken-care of clothes can last much longer than people realize, with her personal benchmark being 10 years of use and enjoyment while always aiming for 20. Hurd credits fellow Artisan Square shop Dana Lee Brown - named after its creator and also a store she used to do work for - as an excellent example of the Cradle to Cradle ethos
In addition to the physical side of fashion, Caroline is inspired by the psychological effects too. Hurd says all of our bodies change over time, and people often think this means
their favourite clothes are lost to them. “They’ve got beautiful items they know will last another 10 years - how can we make it fit properly now?” she says, pointing out alterations can adapt clothes to many different situations.
Hurd also aims to make clear good clothes are an option for everybody. “One thing I recognized when I was designing for plus sizes is there’s a huge discrepancy between the image of the man or woman represented in media versus how people look,” she says. “For me it’s very important for the person to look their best There’s no bad body typethere’s just a bad fit Fit the clothes that make you look your best and you’re going to feel great about yourself.”
Modern Mending is now in full swing, open Saturdays and at other times by appointment. In recognition of Earth Day, Caroline is hosting an open house this Saturday, April 25 from 10 am to 4 pm where she’ll be teaching a Sashiko stitch, a traditional Japanese clothing repair technique Hurd will also be at the Bowen Arts Tour next month, where her shop will serve as Art Hub 9 showcasing her textiles alongside other island artists including Valentyna Gabinyetova and Kirsten Degner.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7
It also means conservation on Crown lands needs to move forward if Bowen is to keep pace with provincial and national commitments to biodiversity protection
Third, private land is a big part of the picture. The plan found that 42 per cent of Bowen’s highest-value conservation areas occur on private land. That does not mean private landowners alone carry responsibility for biodiversity It means protecting biodiversity on Bowen depends on many people and institutions doing their part: landowners, residents, the Municipality, the Conservancy, and others. In that context, shared care means using good local information early and working together to protect biodiversity
The plan also shows that some of the island’s most important biodiversity areas are also places of high human activity and development. In other words, some of the places with the greatest ecological value are also under the greatest pressure. That is why better information helps. It lets us plan ahead, weigh trade-offs more clearly, and focus restoration, stewardship, and protection where they can do the most long-term good.
Freshwater is one of the clearest examples Wetlands,
ponds, streams, and riparian areas make up a relatively small share of the island, but they support an outsized share of life The plan highlights these systems as foundational to biodiversity across Bowen. That has practical implications for how we think about water use, land management, development patterns, restoration priorities, pollution control, and everyday stewardship
The plan also points to climate-related pressures, including biodiversity vulnerability to wildfire. That reinforces an important point: good conservation planning is not only about protecting what remains intact It is also about anticipating change, reducing risk, restoring degraded habitats, and helping ecosystems stay connected and resilient over time
So what is this plan for?
It is a tool for better decisions: on private land, in community stewardship, in the Conservancy’s protection and restoration work, and in municipal choices about land use, park acquisition, infrastructure, and future planning. Just as importantly, it gives Bowen a stronger basis for having these conversations earlier, before conflicts deepen and while options still exist.
That is one of the most valuable contributions of this
Caroline Hurd shows off some of her favourite pieces at her new Modern Mending studio in Artisan Square. / Alex Kurial photo
work. Better information does not remove hard choices, but it can make those choices clearer, fairer, and more grounded in what Bowen says it values.
The Biodiversity Plan is also a reminder that this work is island-wide Biodiversity does not stop at property lines, park boundaries, or jurisdictional edges. Water flows across them Wildlife moves across them Ecological health depends on those connections being maintained. That is why shared responsibility is so important here.
To read the full Plan, visit the Bowen Island Conservancy website. Nexwlélexwm/Bowen Island sits at the entrance to Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound, in the heart of Canada’s newest UNESCO Biosphere Region. This plan gives Bowen a strong local foundation for protecting what makes this place ecologically distinctive.
Now the question is what we do with it The maps exist. The knowledge is stronger. The opportunity is here. Good decisions start with good information. The Bowen Island Biodiversity Plan gives us that information. What happens next is up to all of us.
To learn more, read the Biodiversity Plan on the Bowen Island Conservancy website, and use the plan to inform stewardship and community planning conversations.
EDWARD WACHTMAN
LastSaturday,April18,theNeighbourhood Emergency Response Program (NERP) hosted a meeting of NERP volunteers and the general public to discuss preparation and possible response for upcoming wildfire session.
This was the first time the general public has been invited to a NERP meeting event. The Emergency Operations Room in the Fire Hall was packed to capacity with approximately 47 Islanders attending.
Mayor Andrew Leonard opened the meeting sharing his thoughts on what the municipality is doing in preparation for fire season, and how NERP, Emergency Social Services (ESS), BC Ambulance Service, and the broader community can contribute.
He was followed by Don Shafer, a member of the NERP Leadership Team, presenting an overview of UBC research on Vancouver’s Disaster Preparedness and what Bowen might learn from the findings
Dr. Shafer’s presentation was followed by a panel discussion. Panelists were: Fire Chief Aaron Hanen; Assistant Fire Chief Mike Hartwick, firefighters Rachel Canning and Jessie Perry; Cpl. Bradley Savage of the RCMP; Gale Lyttle of BC Ambulance Service; Stephen Edwards, Bowen Island Fire
Smart Coordinator, Jeanine Ziolkoski of BI Emergency Support Services (ESS), and Jeff Matheson of the Emergency Communication Team.
Attendees had over an hour to ask questions, voice concerns, and share ideas on diverse themes Among these, are the potential use of drones, communication challenges during an emergency, the process of declaring an emergency, the role of ESS, and the Municipality’s role in emergency prep and response.
Following a very lively Q&A and informative panel discussion, attendees working in teams of six or seven were presented with three potential wild fire scenarios The scenarios portrayed the possible escalating spread of a wildfire over the course of a hot, dry, windy September afternoon. For each scenario teams discussed: what they need to know, what to do or not do, and what they should be planning.
Teams reported how they might respond to each scenario. The panelists then provided feedback as to what they would expect Islanders to do in each situation. Similar to the previous exercise, the discussions were lively and informative.
Anybody interested in learning more about NERP, please contact: nerp@storytellings.com
If you interested in the Emergency Support Services (ESS) you can write to BowenESS@bimbc.ca
… and make sure your property is Fire Smart as we move into wildfire season.
SubmittedbyBea Anderson, BoardChair
TheBowen Island Public LibraryBoard is pleasedtoannouncethe appointmentofJenniferStreckmannasthe newChief Librarian, effectiveJune1,2026.
AresidentofBowen Island,Jenniferpreviouslyworkedfor ayear asInterim Director of theBowen Island Public Libraryin2022. Sheled theimplementationofthe fine-freepolicyand oversawthe completion of agrant-fundedlandscaping project.
Forthe past threeyears,Jenniferhas worked as Coordinatorof Accessible Services at VancouverPublic Library, whereshe has overseen specializedcollections,services, andtechnologysupporting patronswithdisabilities. Over thecourseofher 10-yearprofessional librarycareer, shehas also served as aChildren’sLibrarian at thebusy Mount PleasantBranch, ledthe Indigenous Storyteller- in-Residence program, andwas amanager of branches and thecirculation department at VPL
Jenniferwillsucceed Tina Nielsen, whohas runthe BowenIsland Public Librarywithperception, vision,thriftand exemplaryleadership formorethanthree decades. We,and allthe priorBoardsare indebted to Tina forher dedication,support andthe skillshe displayedrunning avital community institutionfor so long.The Boardisconfident that Jennifer’sexperience, leadership,and understandingofbothpublic librariesand theBowen Island communitymeans that shecan step into this crucialpositionand maintainthe growth,vitalityand importance of theBowen Island Public Library.
“I am thrilledtostepintothe role of BowenIsland’snextChief Librarianand to build on thewonderful work that Tina has accomplished,” says Streckmann. “Asa Bowenresident, Icaredeeply aboutthiscommunity andlook forwardtoworking with staff, trustees, andour neighbours across theislandtocontinuefostering a responsive and vibrantlibrary forall of Bowen.”
TheBoard warmly welcomes JenniferbacktoBowen Island Public Libraryand looksforward to workingwithher as shebeginsher new permanentrolethisJune.
Friday, April 24
Ladies Madrigal Concert
The ‘Madz’ singers perfrom at Cates Hill Chapel at 7 pm. Tickets sold at Cates Pharmacy, or debit/credit at the door. $25 for all, under 9 years of age are free.
Friday, April 24 & Saturday, April 25
All’s Well at the Bowen Theatre
Bard on the Rock proudly presents this year’s offering of Shakespeare with ‘All’s Well’, written by the Bard and directed by Graham Ritchie. Both shows 7:15 pm start, April 25 show is closing night. Tickets $30 at eventbrite.ca
Saturday, April 25
Artist pARTy at the Hearth
Kelly Ballard & Pip Adams celebrate their Garden Party exhibit at the gallery. Party from 6 to 8 pm, with the art show on until May 11. More info on Page 7.
Sunday, April 26
Book Donation Morning at the Library
Friends of the Library welcome your donations of clean, good condition used books They’re especially seeking novels and kids books. From 10 am until bins full (Noon latest).
Sunday, April 26
Fix-It Workshop at the Library
Hand Mending 101: A hands on workshop to learn basic hand sewn patching and darning skills From 1 to 2:30 pm
Registration required: bipl.ca/fix
Sunday, April 26
Open Regenerative Food Garden
Join Emily van Lidth de Jeude to learn about growing your own food - what worked or didn’t, ethical chicken keeping, native species, climate change and more. Free, max 10 peo-
ple, 2 to 4 pm Email wildfood@emilyartist.ca to register. Sunday, April 26
Tune Up Your Wheels with Bowen Rec Ramps, rails, boxes and obstacles for all skill levels! Free, drop-in. Helmets mandatory, kids under 10 need adult. This month’s event will also feature a bike repair station.
Monday, April 27 & Monday, May 4
Happy Mondays!
Meditations & Buddhist teachings on “Inspiring Solutions for Difficulties”. $12 per class. Everyone is welcome.” Bowen Island Community Centre from 7 to 8 pm
Tuesday, April 28
Career Advisor & Community Specialist at the Library
Drop in to see a Career Advisor (10 am to 3 pm) & Community Integration Specialist (11 am to 2 pm). Advisor helps w/ resumes, cover letters, interviewing, job searches & more, Specialist helps w/ access to financial, housing, health supports, government programs, disability assistance & more Learn more about both at bipl.ca/get-help
Wednesday, April 29
SKY Walk
Seniors Keeping Young meeting at Evergreen Trails, parking at Evergreen Lane at Bowen Bay Road. 10:30 am.
Thursday, April 30
Country Line Dancing with Bowen Rec Grab your boots & hats for a night of line dancing! No experience or partner needed. Western flair encouraged! Community Centre at 6 pm, register on Bowen Rec website.
Saturday, May 2
Men’s Shed Meetup
Bowen Men’s Shed gathering at Island Pacific School
(behind the school) from 10:30 am to Noon. All ages of men welcome. Complimentary coffee/tea and great company!
Saturday, May 2
French Connections at the Library
Drop in and join us to practice your conversational French, and get to know other French language learners on Bowen Island! Free, 10:30 to 11:30 am. bipl.ca/French
Saturday, May 2
Sandy Beach Buoy Celebration
A Neighbourhood Small Grant has secured a new buoy for Sandy Beach. Come celebrate with games, guests, ribbon-cutting & see the buoy in action. From 2 to 4 pm
Saturday, May 2
Judi Gedye Open House
Come talk about local issues with BIM Councillor Judith Gedye. Everyone welcome, from 3 to 4 pm at Collins Hall.
Sunday, May 3
Library Book Sale
Friends of the Library Society is holding their Spring sale! Come by the Library Annex from Noon to 4 pm to shop fiction, children’s books & more. All funds support the Library. Saturday, May 9
Bowen Island Community Choir Concert
Spring concerts at Cates Hill Chapel, two performances at 2 & 7:30 pm Tickets at Cates Pharmacy (cash only) or at the door $25 adults, $20 youth (12-18), under 12 free Saturday, May 9
Island Pacific School Bursary Fund BBQ & Concert Straightup Sevenhills with Special Guest: School of Rock Community Centre from 5:30 to 9 pm. Tickets online or at the door, $30 w/ kids under 12 by donation.
