Join the Effort to Care for Whiffin Spit Park This Spring

Each spring at Whiffin Spit Park, something remarkable happens. 

Armed with broom pullers, gloves, and plenty of determination, volunteers gather to care for one of Sooke’s most cherished natural spaces. For 18 years, the Juan de Fuca Community Trails Society has led this quiet but powerful stewardship effort. They are now joined by the Friends of Sooke Parks Society, working together to remove invasive Scotch broom and help native plants thrive. 

From March 1 to April 15, small “work parties” will once again head out to the Spit, typically once or twice a week from 9 to 11:30 a.m., weather permitting. The invitation is simple: if you care about this place and are available, lend a hand. 

Beyond the important ecological benefits, these sessions offer something equally valuable - a chance to enjoy fresh ocean air, good company, and one of the most picturesque landscapes in our region. There is a quiet satisfaction in working alongside neighbours while overlooking the Strait, knowing your efforts are helping care for this special place. 

When this work began nearly two decades ago, Scotch broom was steadily engulfing the Spit. Volunteers were looking for a meaningful community project - something visible, impactful, and aligned with their mission to advocate for parks and trails in the region. Whiffin Spit, a well-loved walking destination with clearly defined borders, felt like the right place to begin. 

Before pulling a single plant, organizers sought permission from the District of Sooke and walked the Spit with a CRD botanist. The conclusion was clear: the broom infestation was so established that removing it would not harm the remaining native vegetation. In fact, removal was essential to give native species room to breathe. 

What volunteers may not have realized at the time was the scale of the commitment they were making. Scotch broom seeds can remain viable in the soil for more than 40 years. Without ongoing care, the plant would quickly reclaim the landscape. 

And so, year after year, they returned. 

Over time, the rewards of that persistence have become visible. Wild roses have rebounded. Nodding onion is spreading. A small patch of maritime thrift is growing. Red flowering currant, June plum, and coastal black gooseberry - with its delicate fuchsia look-alike blossoms - are increasing. 

The changes are subtle but meaningful - made possible by community members coming together with a shared purpose. 

To ensure efforts are coordinated and effective, we kindly ask that broom removal be carried out during scheduled work parties. This allows new volunteers to receive proper site orientation and helps ensure stewardship activities are undertaken thoughtfully and as intended. 

If you have ever walked Whiffin Spit and felt grateful for its beauty, consider joining a work party this spring. Equipment is provided. No special expertise is required - just a willingness to help. 

Volunteer Stewardship Days will be posted at the park or email Juan de Fuca Community Trails for more information at jdf.cts@gmail.com. To receive notifications about events in Sooke, subscribe to the District’s weekly event digest at sooke.ca/events.