Burges James Gadsden Provincial Park

Situated 11 km west of Golden between the Trans Canada Highway and the Columbia River Burges James Gadsden Park encompasses much of Moberly Marsh. This area, also a Ducks Unlimited Conservation project, protects the northern portion of the Columbia River Wetlands that stretch 185 km between Canal Flats and Golden.

The Columbia Wetlands are recognized by scientists and naturalists world wide for its remarkable variety and abundance of amphibians, reptiles, mammals, birds, fish and invertebrates. These remaining wetlands of the Pacific Flyway are critical resting and feeding areas for resident and migratory birds.

Date Established: June 24, 1965
Park Size: 404 hectares

Special Notes

• Care should be taken to avoid disturbance of wildlife, especially nesting birds. This area is not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues.
• Bring your own drinking water; potable water is not available in the park.

• History: Burges James Gadsden, a pioneer of the Columbia Valley donated the original portion of the land for this provincial park to the people of the province of British Columbia in 1965 to be protected perpetually.
• Wildlife: Cat tail sloughs lined with cottonwoods, spruce, birch and willow provide habitat for beaver, muskrat, otter and mink. During winter the low snow levels of the valley wetlands provide winter range for elk and deer and predators, such as coyotes and wolves, that depend on healthy ungulate populations for prey. Raptors such as hawks, eagles and osprey are often seen. Blue heron, yellow headed black birds, ducks, geese and swans are among the many birds that utilize this diverse prolific habitat. Bacteria, fungi, worms and beetles cycle nutrients: carbon, sulphur, phosphorus and nitrogen, in this biologically interwoven landscape.
  • General Wildlife, Marine & Outdoor Ethics Information

• Management Planning Information
• Approved Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan [PDF]

Hiking

Wildlife Viewing

Picnic Areas