Francis Peninsula facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Francis Peninsula |
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|---|---|
| French: Péninsule Francis | |
| Location | Madeira Park, British Columbia |
| Coordinates | 49°35′50″N 124°00′58″W / 49.59722°N 124.01611°W |
| Part of | Northern Gulf Islands |
| Area | 3.8 km2 (1.5 sq mi) |
| Geology | Tidal island |
Francis Peninsula, also known as Beaver Island, is a special piece of land on the west coast of the Sechelt Peninsula in British Columbia, Canada. It's called a tidal island because it connects to the mainland at certain times.
Contents
What's in a Name?
Why Francis Peninsula is Called That
The name Francis Peninsula was officially chosen in 1930 by BC Geographical Names. For a while, it was called Beaver Island starting in 1945. This name appeared on British Admiralty Charts.
However, in 1972, the name was changed back to Francis Peninsula. This was done to match the name that local people had always used.
Where is Francis Peninsula?
A Land That Changes with the Tide
Francis Peninsula is found in the southern part of Pender Harbour. It's a unique place because it acts like both an island and a peninsula.
When the tide is high, or during a neap tide, water fills Bargain Narrows and Bargain Bay. This separates Francis Peninsula from the mainland, making it an island. But when the tide goes out, the land connects again. This makes it a peninsula once more.
Getting Around the Peninsula
Even when the tide is high, you can still reach Francis Peninsula easily. A short, two-lane road with a bridge connects it to the mainland. This means people can always drive to and from the peninsula.
Protected Natural Areas
Francis Peninsula is home to two important protected areas. These are Francis Point Provincial Park and Francis Point Ecological Reserve. These areas help protect the natural beauty and wildlife of the peninsula.
