TimberWest has donated $25,000 to Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society for a viewing tower over Somenos Lake.

The viewing tower, which will be constructed on land owned by Ducks Unlimited Canada and The Nature Trust of British Columbia, will give nature enthusiasts, bird watchers and tourists a new view of the waterfowl, birds, plant life and other wildlife that use the marsh for food, protection and breeding habitat.

“TimberWest’s generous gift allows the Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society to complete the wildlife viewing platform at the Somenos Marsh Open Air Classroom,” said Paul Fletcher, co-founder of the society.

“This platform is a valuable addition to the Somenos Marsh Conservation Area, allowing for sweeping views to the lake, and providing visual example of the interface between the marsh and urban area. We appreciate TimberWest’s donation and all the supporters who have contributed to this initiative.”

Last year, TimberWest donated the 94.5 hectare Somenos lake bed to Ducks Unlimited Canada.

Leslie Bogdan, a spokesman for Ducks Unlimited Canada, said collaborations and contributions from partners like TimberWest show the importance of NGOs, industry and government working together to achieve our shared goals for conservation.

“This is a powerful model for future partnerships in conservation, creating a bright outlook for conserving wetland habitat and providing viewing and educational opportunities in British Columbia,” he said.