Mystic Vale

The university is committed to the preservation of Mystic Vale and the surrounding Haro Woods to ensure the long-term health of the area as habitat for local flora and fauna.

Ecoaction groups and sustainability projects have been implemented to preserve the conditions of the ravine, including creating detention ponds to minimize stream bank erosion and removing invasive species like ivy, daphne and holly.

The area covers 4.7 hectares (11.6 acres) of natural coniferous woodland, and much of Mystic Vale and the university campus is part of the Straits Coast Salish peoples’ traditional homeland.

[citation needed] The eco-system of Mystic Vale features over 75 native plant and wildlife species including oceanspray, snowberry, Indian plum and sword fern.

[citation needed] Birds found in Mystic Vale include the bald eagle, Cooper’s hawk, the great horned owl and five species of woodpeckers.

[citation needed] UVic’s Facilities Management has developed long term plans for environmental protection, streamside remediation, and community education about the area.