Our Society
The British Columbia Waterfowl Society is a non-profit conservation organization that was formed in 1961 to conserve and promote waterfowl and wetlands in British Columbia. Since 1963, the Society's focus has been the stewardship of the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary in Delta. The Sanctuary hosted over 100,000 visitors in 2019. Its operation is supported financially through contributions of individuals and corporations, as well as gift shop revenue, memberships and gate entrance fees. The Society manages public use of the Sanctuary, provides interpretive programs, and contributes to research and conservation programs in the community. There are approximately 2000 members, and a volunteer Board of Directors is elected annually to represent the founding organizations and the local community interests.
Making Donations
If considering a donation or bequest, contact our Society through the Sanctuary office (604-946-6980) for our charitable registration number, information on tax receipts, recognition, and suggested wording for bequests. All contributions are appreciated. Tax receipts are automatically issued for donations over $10.00. The Society is a registered non-profit charitable organization, and copies of annual financial statements are made available upon request.
Taxidermy items can sometimes be donated. However, there is already an extensive on-site collection of birds (the Leo Malfet Collection), and the Society reserves the right to judge whether additional donated materials can become part of any permanent displays. Donated specimens need to include a brief history of the specimen and the owner's wishes should the Sanctuary not be able to make use of the donation.
Job Postings
(none available)
Volunteering
Volunteers are essential to the management and operation of the Sanctuary as a community asset, a vital refuge for migratory birds, and a place to foster public appreciation for birds and the rural landscape of Delta. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact the Sanctuary office for basic information about the kinds of volunteer assistance we seek.
Current Volunteer Postings
BCWS Membership
Changes to BC Waterfowl Society Membership
In conjunction with the Sanctuary's recent licence renewal with Environment and Climate Change Canada, the BC Waterfowl Society (BCWS) Board undertook a legal review of the Society's Bylaws, originally registered in 1961, to ensure they align with the B.C. Societies Act which was substantially amended in 2016.
This review determined that the BCWS practice of linking visitor admission with automatic Society membership does not align with prevailing best governance practices for societies and is problematic for BCWS legal compliance under the Societies Act.
What's Changing
Effective January 1, 2027, annual visitor admission to the Sanctuary will no longer provide automatic membership in the BC Waterfowl Society. Admission is purely for access to the Sanctuary.
This change establishes a clear distinction between individuals visiting the Sanctuary and those who choose to participate in governance of the Society as members.
What This Means for You
- Sanctuary access will not change. Visitors may continue to enjoy the Sanctuary by paying the regular admission fees. Marshnotes is available free on the Sanctuary website.
- Society membership will be subject to separate annual dues. The Bylaws provide the Board the ability to assess membership dues. Individuals who choose to be members of the BC Waterfowl Society will be required to pay annual membership dues of $100.00.
- Members wishing to maintain Society membership are required to pay their 2027 membership dues by December 1, 2026. If payment is not received by this date, Society membership will lapse in accordance with the BCWS Bylaws.
- Membership may be reinstated at any time by paying the annual dues.
About Society Membership
Society membership will be separate from Sanctuary admission. Membership provides governance rights and responsibilities, including:
- Attending the Annual General Meeting;
- Receiving official notices and communications from the society; and
- Participating in descisions affecting the governance of BCWS.
Membership is not required to visit or enjoy the Sanctuary. The Sanctuary will remain open to all visitors upon payment of the applicable admission fee.
We appreciate your understanding and continued support as we implement this necessary update to better align our governance with legal and nonprofit sector standards.
