As spring 2025 unfolds, homeowners across the Cowichan Valley are embracing the season with a variety of projects that enhance their properties and lifestyles. From sustainable upgrades to community engagement, here are five trending initiatives that local residents are undertaking this season. 1. Sustainable Landscaping and Native Plant Gardening With a growing emphasis on environmental stewardship, many…
As spring 2025 unfolds, homeowners across the Cowichan Valley are embracing the season with a variety of projects that enhance their properties and lifestyles. From sustainable upgrades to community engagement, here are five trending initiatives that local residents are undertaking this season. 1. Sustainable Landscaping and Native Plant Gardening With a growing emphasis on environmental stewardship, many…
Nanaimo, BC – Vancouver Island University (VIU) is gearing up to host an island-wide construction and trades skills competition that will bring together students from across Vancouver Island. The upcoming event, part of the Skills Canada BC regional competitions, will see hundreds of high school students converging on VIU’s Nanaimo campus on March 6 to showcase their talents in various…
Excavators come in a variety of sizes, each designed for specific types of work. Whether you’re working on a small backyard project, a large construction site, or a demolition job, choosing the right excavator size is crucial. In this guide, we’ll break down the different excavator sizes, their applications, when to rent one versus hiring…
If you’ve ever cracked open an egg from your own backyard chickens and noticed the deep golden yolk, it wasn’t your imagination—home free-range eggs really are different. In commercial egg production, hens are often confined to cages or packed into barns. Labeling rules allow “cage‑free” to mean chickens can move around inside a barn and…
If you’ve ever cracked open an egg from your own backyard chickens and noticed the deep golden yolk, it wasn’t your imagination—home free-range eggs really are different. In commercial egg production, hens are often confined to cages or packed into barns. Labeling rules allow “cage‑free” to mean chickens can move around inside a barn and…
Victoria, BC – June 16, 2025 – The City of Victoria has launched Halisat, a comprehensive Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan aimed at addressing pressing challenges like housing shortages, mental health crises, and social disorder while fostering a safer, more inclusive community. Named after the Lekwungen word meaning “bringing to life; awakening,” the plan reflects…
As spring 2025 unfolds, homeowners across the Cowichan Valley are embracing the season with a variety of projects that enhance their properties and lifestyles. From sustainable upgrades to community engagement, here are five trending initiatives that local residents are undertaking this season. 1. Sustainable Landscaping and Native Plant Gardening With a growing emphasis on environmental…
As spring 2025 unfolds across Vancouver Island, the Cowichan Valley finds itself navigating a pivotal moment in housing and community planning. With property values stabilizing, development proposals inching forward, and calls for systemic reform in housing policy growing louder, the region is in the midst of defining its next chapter. Resilient Market, Cautious Optimism Despite…
The Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) is shaping the future of its nine electoral areas through the Modernized Official Community Plan (MOCP), a forward-thinking framework designed to guide land use and development for the next 20 years. Crafted with input from local residents, this plan tackles pressing issues like climate change, housing, infrastructure, and economic…
The Cowichan Valley is buzzing with updates this week, from innovative waste management initiatives to significant economic development projects and community-focused plans. Here’s a roundup of the latest happenings in our region. North Cowichan Gears Up for Automated Curbside Collection Starting June 2, 2025, North Cowichan residents will see a modernized approach to waste management…
If you’re planning a project in the Cowichan Valley, whether it’s a construction job, landscaping overhaul, or a home renovation, the right equipment can make or break your success. Buying heavy machinery or specialty tools doesn’t always make sense—especially when you can rent high-quality, well-maintained equipment locally. West Coast Equipment Rental offers flexible, affordable equipment…
Excavator Sizes: Choosing the Right Machine for the Job Excavators come in a variety of sizes, each designed for specific types of work. Whether you’re working on a small backyard project, a large construction site, or a demolition job, choosing the right excavator size is crucial. In this guide, we’ll break down the different excavator…
Nanaimo, BC – Vancouver Island University (VIU) is gearing up to host an island-wide construction and trades skills competition that will bring together students from across Vancouver Island. The upcoming event, part of the Skills Canada BC regional competitions, will see hundreds of high school students converging on VIU’s Nanaimo campus on March 6 to…
Mill Bay and Cobble Hill, two scenic communities in the Cowichan Valley, are undergoing rapid growth with a variety of residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. From large-scale housing projects to new business and community spaces, these changes are set to redefine the region. Stonebridge Development: A New Mixed-Use Hub The Stonebridge Development will introduce a…
Duncan Advocates for Repurposing Old Hospital as New Facility Amid Construction of Modern Replacement The City of Duncan is calling for the current Cowichan District Hospital (CDH) to be repurposed as a mental health or rehabilitation facility instead of being demolished once the new hospital is completed in 2027. Councillor Tom Duncan emphasized that demolishing…
The Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) recently held a meeting addressing pressing community issues, including agricultural zoning concerns, housing developments, and water infrastructure projects. The session saw strong participation from residents and key stakeholders. Farmers Voice Concerns Over Zoning Bylaws One of the most heated discussions revolved around agricultural zoning regulations and their impact on…
The City of Duncan has announced a suspension of the Joint Utilities Board’s (JUB) Outfall Relocation Project due to significant cost increases. Initially estimated at $27.4 million in 2016, the project’s expenses have surged to $95 million as of 2025. City officials are now seeking additional funding from provincial and federal governments to proceed. Read…
Wood splitters are powerful tools that make cutting firewood much easier, but they also come with potential hazards. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or a first-time user, following proper safety guidelines and efficiency tips will ensure smooth operation and prevent injuries. Wood Splitter Safety Tips 1. Wear Protective Gear Before operating a wood splitter, always…
With the rising cost of groceries, many families are looking for ways to save money while ensuring they have access to fresh, nutritious food. One of the best ways to do this is by raising backyard chickens. But how much can a family of four actually save by having their own egg-laying hens? Let’s break…
Vancouver Island was blanketed in heavy snowfall this past week, causing disruptions across the region, from power outages to school closures. The winter storm brought up to 20 centimetres of snow, creating hazardous conditions on the roads and increasing demand for emergency response services. Power Outages and Safety Concerns The severe weather led to multiple…
On January 22, the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) held a crucial board meeting, tackling a range of pressing issues, from budget allocations to public concerns over rising tax rates. With a packed agenda, the meeting covered financial planning, infrastructure investments, and community feedback, setting the stage for the year ahead. Budget Deliberations and Public…
December 13, 2024 – Cowichan Valley, BC – The Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) convened for its latest meeting on December 12, addressing pivotal topics around budgeting, infrastructure, and regional growth. The meeting, which emphasized transparency and regional collaboration, shed light on the 2025 budget, service priorities, and community-driven initiatives. Budget Insights for 2025 The…
December 16, 2024 – North Cowichan, BC – The Municipality of North Cowichan continues to tackle pressing local issues with a series of recent and upcoming council meetings. Recent decisions and upcoming agenda items reflect a strong focus on housing, community amenities, environmental initiatives, and long-term economic planning. Recent Developments from December 4, 2024 In…
Excavation projects often come with unique challenges, from navigating tight spaces to dealing with tough terrain. These challenges can slow progress or increase costs if not managed effectively. Excavators, with their versatility and specialized attachments, are essential for overcoming these obstacles. Here’s how they tackle the most common excavation challenges. Tight Spaces Working in confined…
How to Choose the Right Excavator Attachments Attachments are what make excavators versatile and indispensable on construction sites. From digging trenches to breaking concrete, the right attachment can significantly improve efficiency and precision. Here’s a guide to understanding excavator attachments and how to choose the right one for your project. Popular Types of Excavator Attachments…
Choosing the right equipment for a project can make a big difference in efficiency and results. Excavators, especially compact models, are a popular choice for many tasks, but how do they compare to larger machines? Let’s explore why size matters. Compact Excavators: Key Advantages Compact excavators, also known as mini excavators, are ideal for smaller…
Operating an excavator can seem intimidating for first-timers, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can handle the equipment confidently and safely. Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to help you get started. Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Controls Before you start, take some time to read the operator’s manual and familiarize yourself with the…
November 18, 2024 – North Cowichan, BC – The Municipality of North Cowichan is gearing up for an important day of council meetings on November 20, 2024, with significant discussions planned on housing, infrastructure, climate action, and public safety. The day will feature a special in-camera session followed by a regular council meeting, both of…
Landscaping projects often demand precision, power, and the right tools to get the job done efficiently. Excavators are versatile machines that have revolutionized how we approach outdoor projects, offering solutions for everything from digging trenches to moving large quantities of soil. Here are the top five landscaping projects where an excavator becomes an invaluable asset.…
November 12, 2024 – North Cowichan, BC – North Cowichan Council convened on November 6 to discuss critical projects and community updates. Mayor Rob Douglas led the three-hour meeting, addressing recent developments and plans that reflect the Council’s commitment to community welfare and sustainable growth. Mayor’s Report Celebrates Community Achievements and New MLA Appointment Mayor…
The Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) recently held a meeting focused on advancing projects to support environmental conservation, enhance community facilities, and bolster local agriculture. Here’s a summary of the top discussions and decisions: 1. Grants for Environmental and Community Development Projects The board approved several grants to support environmental and community initiatives: $11,000 to…
In the most recent Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) board meeting, several major initiatives were discussed, showcasing the district’s commitment to environmental sustainability, community services, and public safety. Here are the highlights: Disaster Resilience Funding for Duncan The CVRD board has moved forward with a $1.85 million grant application to the Ministry of Emergency Management…
In British Columbia, a tight provincial election is drawing extra attention as two ridings undergo recounts that could influence the final balance of power in the legislature. Following a close contest, the preliminary vote counts have triggered recounts in two key districts, where slim margins separate candidates and the possibility of a shift in party…
Thinking about tackling some ambitious DIY projects around your home? Renting a mini excavator or a Bobcat skid steer opens up a world of possibilities for landscaping, property improvements, and more. Here are a few interesting projects you can consider with these powerful machines. 1. Create a Backyard Pond With a mini excavator, you can…
North Cowichan’s October 18th meeting underscored the importance of regional collaboration in economic development, with a presentation by Steve Nicol of Lions Gate Consulting and Barry O’Riordan from Economic Development Cowichan. Their update on the CVRD Strategic Plan emphasized joint efforts to address economic challenges, including housing shortages, workforce development, and Indigenous economic reconciliation. A…
In the October 18th Economic Development Committee meeting, North Cowichan outlined steps to build a thriving innovation ecosystem in Cowichan Valley as part of its broader Economic Development Action Plan. This strategy seeks to diversify the local economy by encouraging tech growth, supporting entrepreneurship, and enhancing the region’s economic resilience. Barry O’Riordan from Economic Development…
In an October 18th meeting, North Cowichan’s Economic Development Committee advanced its Economic Development Action Plan, a critical roadmap for the region’s sustainable growth. The Action Plan, developed with insights from Deloitte, is built around five strategic priorities: improving the local business climate, supporting traditional industry adaptation, nurturing new economic opportunities, building an attractive community,…
Economic development was another focal point of the CVRD meeting, with the board reviewing funding options for the Cowichan Tech and Innovation Ecosystem Project. Presented by Barry O’Riordan, the project aims to bolster the region’s technology sector by fostering innovation and supporting local entrepreneurs. The project proposes four main components: the development of an angel…
The CVRD meeting also featured a robust discussion on the Regional Growth Strategy (RGS) and the potential implications for the region. With regional growth a pressing issue, the board discussed a plan to engage municipalities and electoral areas in developing a long-term growth strategy. The goal of the RGS is to guide development in a…
At the recent CVRD meeting, a comprehensive review of the district’s asset management maturity was presented, highlighting current challenges and future goals. The Asset Management Division, led by Neil Pukesh, introduced a six-box model framework for evaluating the maturity of various asset management practices across departments. The model includes key areas such as strategy and…
A key agenda item during the Committee of the Whole meeting on September 10, 2024, involved a detailed review of the 2025 Permissive Tax Exemption Applications. The council evaluated applications from a diverse range of community organizations, places of worship, and non-profits that provide essential services to residents of North Cowichan. The permissive tax exemption…
The September 10 Committee of the Whole meeting featured a key presentation from Tamara Olson, BC Ferries Community Relations Manager, and Floridor Oprea, Project Manager, who provided an update on the progress of repairs at the Crofton Terminal Berth. The aging berth, which has faced several structural issues over the past year, is now undergoing…
At the recent Committee of the Whole meeting held on September 10, 2024, the North Cowichan Council took significant steps towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of cemetery services with the approval of the Mountain View Cemetery Services Plan. The plan, which was developed in partnership with Urban Systems, lays out a comprehensive framework for expanding,…
The Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) held a pivotal meeting on October 2, 2024, where several important initiatives were discussed and approved, addressing infrastructure, housing, and environmental conservation. One of the key topics was the formal adoption of bylaws related to the Shawnigan Village Water System Service. The Board approved CVRD Bylaw No. 4566 and…
How to Safely Operate a Boom Lift: Best Practices and Safety Tips Boom lifts are essential tools for working at height on construction sites or during maintenance projects. However, operating these machines comes with risks, and following safety protocols is crucial to avoid accidents. This article provides a detailed guide on how to safely operate…
Top 5 Benefits of Renting Heavy Equipment Over Buying Deciding whether to rent or buy heavy equipment can be a difficult choice for contractors and businesses. While owning equipment might seem appealing, renting can offer several advantages, especially for short-term or specialized projects. In this article, we’ll explore the top five reasons why renting heavy…
The Essential Equipment for Starting Your Landscaping Project Landscaping projects can range from small garden makeovers to large-scale land clearing, but they all share one thing in common — you need the right tools to get the job done efficiently. Whether you’re a contractor working on a client’s property or a homeowner tackling a DIY…
Choosing the Right Excavator for Your Job Site: A Comprehensive Guide Excavators are one of the most versatile pieces of heavy equipment used on construction sites. Whether you’re working on a small landscaping project or managing a large-scale demolition, choosing the right excavator is essential for efficiency and cost-effectiveness. In this guide, we’ll walk you…
We are excited to introduce West Coast Rental, your new go-to source for equipment rentals and a wide range of additional services right here in the Cowichan Valley. Owned and operated by long-time local residents Brad and Danielle Heugh, West Coast Rental is more than just a business—it’s a commitment to serving our community with…
