Submitted
Cathy Storey, like many others, was a transplant to the Comox Valley.
Her love of nature developed into a strong bond with the Valley’s unique flora and fauna and helped root her family in the community.
Brian Storey, Cathy’s husband, recalls that while researching information on local trees she bumped into a unique contest - ‘The European Tree of the Year.’
“Initiating the Comox Valley Nature’s (CVN) Tree of the Year event into the Valley was a mission Cathy loved,” said Brian. “She believed it was a way to encourage the community to reconnect with nature and protect the Valley’s special trees.”
Long-time CVN member Steph Nathan remembers Cathy’s impassioned questions to the membership.
What trees in our community are special to you? Which trees do you connect with, in the Comox Valley?
Nathan cherished the large catalpa trees on McPhee Street that burst into spectacular bloom every spring so she nominated them for Tree of the Year in 2019.
Cathy’s story and questions resonated with member Annette Boulter.
“I immediately recalled the memories of and the connection I had to the Garry oaks while attending Vanier High School from 1975 to 1977,” said Boulter.
In 2019 Boulter nominated a large, stately Gary oak that proudly stands between the Comox Valley Sports Centre and Vanier high School. Her nomination was voted Tree of the Year.
“The Garry oak I nominated has been watching over our kids for generations,” said Boulter. “Like a loving witness, this tree and many others, hold the stories of our past and are a big part of the life on that land. My wish is that this special Garry oak will be noticed, cherished and left to watch over our children.”
The Tree of the Year isn’t just about beauty, size or age, it’s also about the tree’s story and its connection to people, to the community.
Members of the CVN, inspired by Cathy’s enthusiasm for trees and the passion she generated when talking about the many gifts they give to our community, have dedicated this year’s event in her memory.
“I believe, as did Cathy, with her deep-rooted love of nature, that trees are the keepers of our history and elders of our community,” said Boulter.
Do you have a tree that you would like to honour with your nomination?
For more information and the easy online nomination form visit
Nominations remain open until April 1, 2021.
