News Release
For Immediate Release

Saanich, BC - The Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) has named the District of Saanich a winner of its 2025 Canadian Awards for Planning Excellence.

Saanich received the annual award for its Biodiversity Conservation Strategy and Urban Forest Strategy, two innovative approaches that strengthen the municipality’s climate resilience, protect our natural assets, promote sustainable land use and highlight the importance of community stewardship.

“These strategies demonstrate our community’s commitment to environmental stewardship and Indigenous engagement,” says Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock. “Collaboration with and support from Indigenous knowledge keepers, residents and field experts is integral to shaping a better future for Saanich.”

The strategies, approved by Saanich council in 2024, help protect, connect and enhance Saanich’s biodiversity and urban forest and are linked with the District’s updated Official Community Plan and aligned with its 2023-2027 Strategic Plan.

“Aligning our policies, programs and actions to support a sustainable and resilient Saanich empowers our current and future environmental leaders, both staff and community stewards,” says Murdock.

The strategies, informed through engagement with the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council, were developed by Diamond Head Consulting with support of the District’s Parks staff. The Biodiversity Conservation Strategy was developed with advice from the Resilient Saanich Technical Committee.

The CIP awards celebrate planning achievements that are shaping the future of Canadian communities.  Learn more about the awards.

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Media Contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca