Press Release  – for immediate release

Qualicum Beach, British Columbia – Community groups are inviting the public to their 9th annual Rivers Day Celebration this Sunday, September 28 in the Qualicum Beach Salmon Forest, off Kinkade Road and the Old Island Highway.

"The community will be able to celebrate a gorgeous autumn day by witnessing the cycle of life with the return of the salmon to the river and the floodplain forest that safeguards the quality and quantity of the water in the river," explains Annette Tanner, coordinator of the event. "By protecting the forest that protects the water for the salmon, we are actually protecting ourselves because the Little Qualicum River provides the excellent water that we drink as well as the abundance of salmon that we eat."

"Our famous annual guided tour to the 3rd tallest Sitka Spruce tree in BC will take place at 1:00 pm" Tanner continues. "With the low water flows at Rivers Day, we are able to build a crossing to the forest where an easy trail through the diverse vegetation of the floodplain forest, will take us to the famous tree."

"Whether taking part in the 1:00 pm tour or basking under the old-growth cedars that overlook the Chinook Salmon, gliding gracefully in the emerald pools or surging with big splashes across the rocks, the public is in for a memorable day," Tanner concludes.

Gates open 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Sunday, September 28. Look for signs and the Pink Salmon at the corner of Kinkade Rd. and the Old Island Highway. Everyone welcome. Admission free. Tour to the Sitka Spruce 1:00 pm with donations for the protection of the Qualicum Beach Salmon Forest greatly appreciated. Info: (250) 752-6585.

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For more information contact Annette Tanner (250) 752-6585, cell (250) 240-7470