One of Metchosin's defining features is its natural environment, twisting Garry Oaks, sparkling creeks, and breathtaking shorelines. Habitat Acquisition Trust (HAT) is a non-profit land trust working in Metchosin and throughout the Capital Regional District to protect, restore, and understand the natural environments essential for our community's well-being. Though land acquisition, conservation covenants, education, and voluntary habitat stewardship Habitat Acquisition Trust operates to preserve nature on South Vancouver island and the Gulf Islands.

As of 2017, Habitat Acquisition Trust protects just under 20 acres of land with four conservation covenants in Metchosin, with further properties in progress for protection. HAT conducts annual community invasive plant removals, surveys and research on species of special concern such as Metchosin's rare Blue-grey Taildropper Slugs, bats, amphibians, and Western Screech Owls, and conservation covenant monitoring in Metchosin throughout the year. Through the Greenspots outdoor youth education program HAT has provided nature learning opportunities for the children of Westmont School and plans to do the same for Hans Helgesen students.

From 2017 - 2018 Habitat Acquisition Trust's Good Neighbours backyard stewardship program is focused on Metchosin. Through this program HAT meets with approximately 30 landowners to provide advice for supporting native wildlife and focuses its public outreach and engagement activities in Metchosin to encourage widespread caring for wildlife.

If you would like to get involved with Habitat Acquisition Trust, to lend support through a donation, or ask a question use the contact info and links to your right.

Background image by Josh Tanasichuk and photo by Christian Engelstoft