Inside the mailboxes of 250 Cowichan Bay residents last weekend was a poll distributed by members of the Cowichan Estuary Restoration and Conservation Association.
The aim of the poll, according to CERCA chair Dr. Goetz Schuerholz, is to gauge the perceptions of recipients on just what it means to them to be living close to the estuary and sea.
Folks at the University of Victoria initially designed the perception survey for Saanich residents but CERCA members felt the same information may prove useful in Cow Bay.
"It is expected that the results of the perception poll will provide a sound basis for local development, a clear vision on the future of Cowichan Bay and its estuary, and guidance on wise land and resource use in the target area, in particular with respect to expected impacts of climate change on local communities, estuaries and floodplains," said a press release issued by Schuerholz.
Working together with UVic's geography department, CERCA members kept many of the generic questions asked to Saanich residents but also tailored the questionnaire to the local circumstances.
The hope, Schuerholz noted, was to get all of the forms filled in and returned by the end of the month.
Folks can drop off their completed surveys at the Cowichan Bay Inn. Those who submit their papers can enter a draw for prizes supplied by village businesses.
Visit www.cowichanestuary.com to learn more about the Cowichan Estuary Restoration and Conservation Association.