The federal government is putting one-million dollars toward restoring the Kus-kus-sum site on the K’ómoks Estuary in Courtenay.

The project is transforming a former industrial sawmill site into a natural tidal marsh and riparian ecosystem.

Work is underway on more than eight acres of estuary habitat that will reconnect to an already protected section of the estuary.

Officials say the restoration will support all five species of Pacific salmon, as well as hundreds of bird and plant species.

The site was heavily degraded during sawmill operations dating back to 1949.

The federal government says the project will help restore biodiversity, improve fish and wildlife habitat, reduce climate impacts, and return an important cultural site to the K’ómoks First Nation.

Once complete, the land will be repatriated to the Nation as part of a partnership with the Comox Valley Project Watershed Society and the City of Courtenay.

Ottawa’s contribution comes through the Natural Infrastructure Fund, which supports projects that use natural or hybrid approaches to boost climate resilience and protect ecosystems.

To learn more, visit Government of Canada.