The Nature Preserve lies within the Eastern Vancouver Island ecoregion of the Pacific Maritime ecozone as identified in the Ecological Framework of Canada. Eastern Vancouver Island is designated as an 'EcoCrisis' region and is among the most at-risk areas in southern Canada, while supporting more biological diversity than anywhere else in B.C. This ecoregion is vital for both national and global biodiversity, providing critical opportunities for the conservation and restoration of habitats for endangered species, migratory birds and marine wildlife. Its natural ecosystems are facing significant challenges from development, industrial use and the introduction of invasive species. 

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• The Preserve lies within the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region, a designated UNESCO biosphere reserve, one of only three in BC.

• It is part of the Provincially designated Parksville-Qualicum Beach Wildlife Management Area, the abundance and diversity of natural resources found in this WMA are outstanding on a global scale. 

• It is designated as one of Canada's Protected Areas by Environment Canada to protect its wildlife, their habitat, and to conserve and enhance biodiversity. 

• It is within a designated Important Bird and Biodiversity Area, home to 135 native avian species and confirmed sightings of 192 native and migratory birds (IBA Canada).

• 22 Species at Risk are found here including Great Blue herons, Peregrine falcons, Northern Red-legged frogs, Pacific Tree frogs, Purple martins, Dun Skipper, Wandering salamander and and many coastal bird species. The fact that this relatively small area supports such a large number of species at risk highlights its high conservation value.

• ​The Nature Preserve's forest is classified as critically imperiled and is on the provincial red list in BC as part of the Douglas-fir/dull Oregon-grape ecological community located within the Coastal Douglas-fir Moist Maritime (CDFmm) subzone. 

• Sensitive ecosystems within the Nature Preserve are Wetland marsh (freshwater and tidal), Riparian mature coniferous deciduous forest,, and Older Forest, conifer dominated.

• Its ten wetlands are classified Red Alder - Skunk Cabbage swamp, BC - Red-listed wetlands defined as an ecological community that has or is a candidate for endangered of threatened status (BC CDC, 2024).