Geography, Demographics & Environment

Locally known as “The Rock”, Salt Spring Island is the largest of the Gulf Islands, lying between Vancouver Island and the Mainland of British Columbia, Canada. Within an area of about 185 sq. km., [or 72 sq. mi.], Salt Spring Island accommodates a population of about ten thousand people. These numbers can more than double between spring and autumn when part-time residents and visitors inhabit the island to enjoy its allure. Ganges is the largest village on the island, with its vibrant commercial activity, but Fulford Harbour, Vesuvius and Fernwood are smaller community centres which offer interesting shops and restaurants.

Salt Spring Island gets over 2000 hours of sunlight annually, an annual average of 35 inches of rain and enjoys a mild 'Mediterranean' climate.

Diverse flora and fauna form an integral part of island life. With a shoreline of 184 kilometres, waterfowl, harbour seals, otters, orcas and a variety of birds are often sighted.

One of the most obvious members of the wildlife population is the deer, seen meandering along the roadsides and through private gardens. Visitors find them delightful, yet residents have developed an ambivalent relationship with them, particularly after they devour the favourite rose bush! Local nurseries are hesitant to suggest that there are any truly deer-proof plants in existence!

Due to its semi-rural state and temperate climate, Salt Spring Island has an abundance of plant life. The arbutus, Canada's only broad-leaved evergreen tree, is stunningly beautiful. As the sun bakes the tree trunk, it sheds its auburn bark in curls, exposing the smooth greenish skin beneath. Its blossoms and subsequent berries are attractive to many local birds. This exceptionally hard wood, although difficult to work with, produces some astounding pieces of art. Local wood turners, MORGAIN CUDDY, BOB MCKAY, and many others create stunning artistic and functional creations out of arbutus, ash, myrtle and cherry.

The Garry Oak tree, spotted along the coastline in particular, is considered a threatened species, and is thus protected and nurtured by the SALT SPRING ISLAND CONSERVANCY. This organization is active in promoting stewardship of our island's land, freshwater and marine environments as well as cultural landmarks.

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