The Blaauw Eco Forest was donated to Trinity Western University in the fall of 2013 by the Blaauw family in memory of Thomas Blaauw, a local farmer who passed away in 2012. As outlined in the purchase agreement, the forest is to be preserved for public use, education, and research. It can be accessed from a trailhead located on 257A Street, just north of 84th Avenue. The Blaauw Eco Forest consists of 25 acres located in Glen Valley in Langley Township just south of the Fraser River. It is found within the Western Hemlock biogeoclimactic zone, which is characterized by three layers of plant canopy and mature stands of red cedar, Douglas-fir, and hemlock. Smaller stands of big leaf maple and ancient cottonwood are scattered throughout. The forest sits on top of a glacial moraine; the soils consists of gravel, medium stones, sand and coarse debris with a medium organic layer on top. This forest has unique microhabitats such as various wetlands and mixed forest communities, which can foster a greater richness of plant and animal species. Rare species that have been identified in the forest include the northern red-legged frog, the wandering salamander, and the Pacific sideband snail. The Blaauw Eco Forest also plays host to larger wildlife such as coyotes, barred owls, bald eagles, great blue herons, black-tailed deer, raccoons, black bears, bobcats, and garter snakes. This relatively small remnant of the type of forest that once covered much of the Fraser Valley provides excellent opportunities for student research projects and field experiences associated with Trinity Western courses. It is also a place for the public to enjoy a quiet, serene walk in God’s creation. We are grateful to the Blaauw family and also for many community members such as WOLF (Watchers of Langley Forests) who made it possible to preserve this unique habitat. Visitors are asked to abide by the rule “leave only footprints, take only pictures” so that this beautiful corner of God’s creation can continue to flourish for generations to come. -Christopher Hall, Outdoor Laboratory Supervisor
Posted on: Fri, 22 Aug 2014 00:39:28 +0000