The future of the Delkatla Nature Centre is in question and members are being called to a special meeting Thursday October 20 in Masset.
The interpretive centre nestled on the edge of the Delkatla Sanctuary was opened to the public last year, but the society that runs it is already having difficulty covering operating costs.
"It is relatively easy to get capital grants for projects, but it is hard to get funds for operating costs," says executive director of the Delkatla Sanctuary Society Margo Hearne.
She says the centre, which is open every Friday and Saturday from 2 -4 pm, is run entirely by volunteers at present, but bills continue to add up.
The biggest expenses for the society are insurance and taxes. Although the Village of Masset gave the group a municipal tax break, they still have to pay school and hospital taxes.
Ms Hearne appreciates the break from the village, but she still wrote an $1138 tax cheque for the year.
"We're looking for ideas to help alleviate the tax burden," says Ms Hearne.
"We don't intend to close the centre, but we need the membership to understand our situation."
Around 800 people passed through the centre last year and viewed interpretive displays on the wetland, including a working diorama, which shows the water coming in and out of the slough. There is a $2 admission fee to the centre, but members are free. The society has 35 members.
The meeting starts at 7 pm at the centre.