Campus biodiversity maps

Interactive campus biodiversity map

This publicly accessible, interactive biodiversity map shows ecosystems, trails, plants, birds, fungi, insects, mollusks, mammals and reptiles on the Royal Roads campus.

Decorative

View the interactive map.

 

The Royal Roads campus is home to a vast diversity of species within some very unique ecosystems. 

The 565 acres are an island of natural diversity in a sea of urban development: a patchwork quilt of towering old growth forests, watercolor meadows of wildflowers and stark escarpments of Garry Oak forest. With threats of development, pollution, invasive species, as well as many others, it is vital that these species and ecosystems are known so that they can have a chance at being protected.

Garry Oak ecosystem story map

Broad leaved shooting star plant

With more than 100 different species, Garry Oak ecosystems are essential for species diversity and ecosystem services. They serve many cultural and ecological roles and are extremely sensitive.

This story map explores the importance and sensitivities of the ecosystem, takes a closer look at the species within it and identifies ways you can help protect it.

View the story map.

Lagoon ecosystem story map

Pacific Glasswort plant

Lagoon ecosystems are home to a large variety of both aquatic and terrestrial organisms. The lagoon ecosystem on RRU's campus is of special importance as it acts as a bird sanctuary.

This story map explores the ecosystem, the species within it, and how you can help protect it.

View the story map.

Old Growth ecosystem story map

Coaster Hedge Nettle plant

From providing unique habitats for species, to providing ecological functions like carbon storage, there is a long list of cultural and environmental reasons why old growth forest ecosystems should be protected.

This story map explores the importance of this ecosystem, its ecological values, the species within it, and how you can help protect it.

View the story map.

Creative thinking, technology and teamwork

These campus biodiversity maps are the final project of four students in the School of Environment and Sustainability: Jake Edwards, Hayley Houlden, Shannon Tallon and Caleb Gaeke.

Read their story or watch them have a chat with President Philip Steenkamp.

Jake Edwards, Hayley Houlden, Shannon Tallon and Caleb Gaeke stand atop a Garry Oak meadow that overlooks the trees and water.