qax mot Conservation Area

The 22-hectare parcel was jointly purchased by the CVLT and the CVRD in 2019, which now operate it as a conservation park. Initially known as the Morrison Creek Conservation Area, the name was changed to qax mot Conservation Area. K’ómoks First Nation suggested this name, which means ‘lots of medicine’. This is in reference to the abundance of indigenous medicinal plants in the area.

The parcel is in the headwaters of Morrison Creek, which are a top priority for conservation in the Comox Valley. The expansive, undeveloped wilderness oasis nestled between the margins of the Village of Cumberland and the City of Courtenay provides habitat for an extraordinary diversity of wildlife including keystone species such as wide-ranging carnivores, robust runs of salmon and is the only home on Earth to the endangered Morrison Creek Lamprey.

The qax mot Conservation Area site is located on the south side of Lake Trail Road, west of the Inland Highway and the Linton Conservation Area. There is limited parking at the Linton Conservation Area. Park and walk west about 150 metres to gain access to the qax mot Conservation Area. Dogs are allowed on leash. Be bear aware in this area. As a conservation area, cycling is discouraged.