Vancouver
Park Board
Media
advisory
Sept 21,
2017
A new tidal wetland in New Brighton Park in east Vancouver
has been created to improve access to nature for park visitors, and provide
habitat for fish, birds and other wildlife. Salmon fry have already been
swimming in the marsh.
The Vancouver Park Board and Port of Vancouver, in
consultation with Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, have worked
together on this unique project to improve the health of Burrard Inlet.
Native plants, including 25,000 salt marsh plugs, over 800
trees, and 3,500 shrubs have been planted in the newly constructed wetland.
These will benefit a broad range of species such as songbirds, raptors, and
native bees.
Media are invited to learn more at a celebration event
hosted by the Port of Vancouver:
· When: 11am Thursday September 21, 2017
· Where: New Brighton Park, 3201 New
Brighton Road
· Who: Park Board Chair Michael Wiebe,
VP of Port Infrastructure Cliff Stewart, representatives
from Musqueam,
Squamish and Tsleil-Wauthuth First Nations, invited guests
· What: Celebration followed by media
tour of salt marsh led by First Nations biologist
Parking available adjacent to the park
on New Brighton Road or in the parking lot at the corner of New Brighton Road
and Commissioner Street*
Loss of tidal wetlands from Coal Harbour to Second Narrows
has impacted fish and wildlife. The creation of a salt marsh is also part of
the restoration of Hastings Creek through Hastings Park.
Salt marshes prevent coastal erosion and reduce flooding and
act as nurseries and refuges for many species of marine animals, and protect
water quality by filtering runoff.
The Park Board is working on similar biodiversity projects
elsewhere such as restoring a historical stream through Volunteer and Tatlow
parks on the city’s west side. Construction is
expected to begin next summer.
These initiatives support the Park Board’s Biodiversity Strategy to improve
ecosystems throughout the city.
Media contact:
604-754-8943
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