The Lands
The Cape Roger Curtis lands consist of 255 hectares (631 acres) at the entrance to Howe Sound, on the south west corner of Bowen Island, just 20 km from downtown Vancouver. Before being acquired by developers, the lands embraced over 3 km of unspoiled coastline, mature second growth forest, rare coastal bluff ecosystems, and an extensive trail system of old logging skid roads. Cape Roger Curtis was the only undeveloped coastal tract of land of this beauty and size close to Vancouver.
Unique Ecosystem
The Cape Roger Curtis lands contain a significant amount of environmentally sensitive and ecologically exceptional areas worthy of protection. Several rare plant species occur (e.g. Great Camus, Rocky Mountain Juniper, Menzies’ Larkspur), and the property contains a provincially ranked S2 (red-listed) plant community (Shore Pine-Douglas fir/Cladina with Rocky Mountain juniper).
Recreational Potential
The beaches and trails on the western side of the property had unsurpassed recreational potential, for hiking, picnicking, swimming, kayaking, and diving. The Cape Roger Curtis lands were seen as the destination jewel in the “Cove to Cape” Greenway concept: the backbone of Bowen’s “Island of Walks” vision.
Advocate for the land and continued public access
“What your father can hardly remember, you will not miss. What you now take for granted, or is slowly disappearing, your children, not having known, cannot lament.”—Kavlosky
Despite the fact that the Cape Roger Curtis lands have been purchased by developers there is always a need for concerned citizens to make a difference. It is important that we continue to be advocates for the land and for continued public access.
Help Keep Concern for Cape Roger Curtis in the Public Eye
You can help do this in many ways:
- Write letters to newspapers relating your own experiences of visiting the lands and your views on future plans for development, preservation, etc.;
- Contact the Developers, Council members, and Council Committee members and let them know your concerns;
- Talk to people you know and tell them what is happening at the Cape.