Summer 2026

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Editorial

WSANEC Peoples call this time of year ĆENŦEḴI (Sockeye Moon, July), and ĆENHENEN (Humpback Salmon Return Moon, August). Summer signifies growth and abundance across cultures as it is the most active period of nature. Here in North Saanich during these long days, there is more time to be outdoors, to gather friends and family, and to enjoy an abundance of fresh produce from our garden and the numerous farm markets, stands, and shops in the district.

In honour of this joyful season, we begin the summer 2026 edition with 5 articles that emphasize the natural world, starting with the inspiring story of dedicated volunteer citizen scientists working hard to protect the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales. North Saanich is surrounded by the sea on three sides, and our next article provides a personal and concise introduction on how to explore our local marine world safely. We then follow with three articles that emphasize our local flora – first, an upcoming workshop presented by the North Saanich Fire Department on wildfire resilient gardens; second, a celebration of the beautiful YYJ Pollinator Garden, which aims to restore the culturally significant Garry oak ecosystem; and third, a delicious recipe for herbaceous muffins using North Saanich-grown herbs.

We have been waiting with bated breath for the uncovering of the mystery of the BC Electric Railway (BCER) from Part 1 in the spring 2026 issue. Part 2 takes us north of the YYJ airport to the Patricia Bay area, where we learn about the ghostly traces of rail lines past. Our North Saanich on Foot (NSoF) series takes you on a walk in this same area, and in only 4.2 km, you go from ocean to countryside, from farmstand to airport views, and walk part of the old BCER railway.

We wrap up on a celebratory note with the announcement of the Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation’s Spirit Gala on November 14, 2026, in support of our local hospital, and a jovial cartoon by Gerry Karagianis who, with strokes of a pen, artfully tells the story of the bold shenanigans of our local squirrels.

Have a fabulous summer,

Your North Saanich Currents Team (NSC.community@proton.me)