Taken from the: Buttertubs Marsh Conservation Area Management Plan, January 2003

The Buttertubs Marsh Conservation Area is a reclaimed wetland and floodplain habitat
adjacent to the Millstone River within the Nanaimo City limits.

The Conservation Area provides habitat for a number of rare-listed species,
including the first recorded breeding site on Vancouver Island for the blue-listed
American Bittern. Owned by the Nature Trust of British Columbia, Buttertubs Marsh
also offers wildlife viewing opportunities, education and enjoyment of nature.

In keeping with the management goals of the Conservation Area, at the steering committee
meeting of February 14th, 2002, it was decided by all to designate the Conservation Area
a “PET FREE” area. This will be in place March 1, 2003.

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Unfortunately this goal was never reached and never will be. I'm sure most of the folks
who walk with their dogs in this Marsh have no idea that they are putting Blue-listed birds
like the American Bittern at risk. Consequently it would be helpful if the Parks Board
distributed more information to the public and posted more significant signage so people
will understand the importance of taking their pet for a walk in a park designated
for this purpose, thus helping to protect our environment and wildlife. To say nothing
of the fact that it is frightening to suddenly be confronted by two big dogs with a reputation
for attacking people, while walking the trails.