Ruby Alton Nature Reserve

Ruby Alton’s family, the Lacy family, settled on Salt Spring Island at the start of the Depression. Ruby grew up digging clams, fishing and raising sheep and vegetables on the family farm to supplement the family’s income. She was an ardent environmentalist and had a love of gardening. Later in her life, she decided to give a lasting gift of nature to the community and she left her wonderful waterfront property, as a bequest, to the Islands Trust Fund. The 1.6 hectare property, including forest, house, gardens, and pasture, is now protected for generations to enjoy as a nature reserve. Ruby’s giving spirit lives on.