Initial groundwork to replace a popular boardwalk and viewing platform along Salmon Arm's Foreshore/Raven Trail will soon begin.
Last September, Salmon Arm Bay Nature Enhancement Society (SABNES) announced the Eric Christmas Memorial boardwalk/viewing platform at the west end of the trail was being demolished.
"After 30-plus years and countless repairs, the current bird-viewing platform on the foreshore has deteriorated to the point of being unsafe," said SABNES, which announced plans to "build a new, larger platform with seating, capable of hosting school groups or nature enthusiasts."
"Nestled in the reeds, this platform will serve as a peaceful space for observing wildlife," explained SABNES
A fundraising drive was initiated to raise the $250,000 needed "to bring this vision to life."
According to a Tuesday, Feb. 4 update from SABNES, the fundraising target has risen to $350,000. The project, said SABNES, is about more than the structure, it's an "opportunity to preserve access to one of the few remaining North American urban wetlands where 282 bird species thrive, including the remarkable courtship displays of the Western Grebes."
"The $350,000 fundraising drive for this project has gained impressive momentum, reflecting the importance of the nature reserve to our community," reads the media release. "A collaborative venture with the Shuswap Community Foundation and SASCU has been set up to help receive donations."
SABNES has been working with local architect Marc Lamerton on designing the new boardwalk and viewing platform, "with a keen eye for longevity and sustainability."
"New screw piles – long, cylindrical steel piles placed into the ground – with the primary purpose to provide a solid and reliable support system are planned for install mid-February," said SABNES. "The deck structure will be constructed post-nesting season, in late August or September, by the Shuswap Trail Alliance.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be collaborating with Shuswap Community Foundation SASCU, and the Shuswap Trail Alliance as we rebuild the boardwalk in memory of Eric Christmas – a visionary Salmon Arm resident who championed the value of our foreshore," said SABNES president Janet Aitken.
SABNES gave special acknowledgement to the Shuswap Rotary Club for a $10,000 donation "which has spurred further community support."
"Additionally, a $20,000 grant from the Shuswap Community Foundation helped SABNES kickstart the entire process," reads the media release.
For the month of February, you can double your donation to the project, with a local fund that is matching all contributions dollar for dollar. Donations over $20 will receive a tax-deductible receipt. For more information sabnes.org.
