Det San Ecological Reserve is a BC Parks ecological reserve close to Smithers. BC Parks says it protects rare and sensitive grassland and savannah ecosystems on a steep south-facing slope.
Det San is the Wet'suwet'en name for "juniper," and the reserve contains a regionally rare example of old-growth juniper.
Det San is a conservation and education site for careful visitors interested in grassland, savannah, old-growth juniper, and wildlife habitat near Smithers. BC Parks says the ecosystem provides critical winter and early spring range for deer, excellent habitat for moose, and habitat for resident and migratory songbirds.
Ecological reserves protect special natural ecosystems and support research and education. They are not intended for outdoor recreation, but this reserve is open to the public for non-destructive activities such as hiking, nature observation, and photography.
The reserve is in the Sub-Boreal Spruce biogeoclimatic zone and the Bulkley Basin terrestrial ecosection. BC Parks provides a reserve map and detailed reserve description for education and research.
Because the reserve is open only to non-destructive use, the best visit is slow, careful, and habitat-focused.
Plan around non-destructive walking, grassland and savannah observation, old-growth juniper study, bird watching, deer winter range awareness, photography, map review, and education-focused visits that avoid damaging soils or vegetation.
Do not hunt, fish, camp, forage, or use motorized vehicles. Use maps for general information only, not legal boundaries or navigation, and apply for a permit before research or organized educational activities.
