The City of Courtenay is celebrating the official opening of McPhee Meadows - a new 11.8-acre natural park located near the river in the Old Orchard neighbourhood.

The park, donated by the late Robert McPhee back in 2011 through Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program, is now home to a new riverside loop trail through restored meadow and wetland habitat.

Mayor Bob Wells says McPhee Meadows stands as a tribute to Robert McPhee’s generosity and vision - preserving both natural space and local history for future generations.

After years of planning and community input, construction began this past spring.

The work included removing invasive plants, replanting native species, building the loop trail, and repairing the old orchard fence.

The park’s opening was marked last week with members of the McPhee family in attendance.

Unlike most city parks, McPhee Meadows focuses on quiet, natural recreation rather than playgrounds or sports fields.

Visitors can enjoy the meadow trail, go birdwatching, or explore the heritage orchard.

Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leash at all times, and there’s no river access in order to protect sensitive habitat.

McPhee Meadows is located at the corner of 3rd Street and Harmston Avenue in the Old Orchard area, and more information is available at courtenay.ca/mcphee-meadows.