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As a volunteer organization, SWI works with BC parks and promotes educational, stewardship, conservation and accessibility programs for Strathcona Provincial Park. We employ in the summer 3 to 5 students, preferably in environmental sciences, to increase knowledge of the park. Among the research activities we are involved in are three iNaturalist projects, the primary one being the SWI Data Collection Project. By 2023 we have catalogued over 2100 species in the park, a significant number of which are new to Vancouver Island and to the Strathcona Provincial Park. In 2021 we produced an updated edition of the 2019 “Common Mosses and Liverworts of Strathcona Provincial Park” and in January 2023 we published a “Field Guide to Basic Lichens of Strathcona Provincial Park”. Forthcoming will be a guide to Common Fungi in the Park.

Over the years, SWI has annually assisted 5,000-10,000 visitors to Strathcona Provincial Park from across Canada & around the world. Over two dozen volunteers, along with summer students, staff our “huts” at Paradise Meadows and Buttle Lake, providing information on trails & hiking conditions, flora & fauna, park rules & wilderness ethics. SWI also organizes outdoor interpretive programs for families & children, hikers & climbers and supports accessibility through the wheelchair and Trailrider program.  All programs are facilitated by volunteers.