Environment

Natural Areas

A number of Vancouver parks contain naturalized areas.  While these spaces may look somewhat “wild” and naturally self sufficient, if left unmanaged in the urban environment they may be overtaken by invasive species such as Himalayan blackberry or Japanese knotweed which compete with, and often overtake, native species. Stewardship efforts aid in:

• The Active management of conservation areas
• Improving habitat for wildlife
• Habitat enhancement and restoration
• Stream and shore keeping programs
• Fisheries enhancements
• Maintaining wildlife corridors
• Identification and preservation of wildlife trees
• Slope stabilization
• Stormwater management
• Forest stewardship
• Wetland/bog conservation

The arboriculture department works hard with local schools and volunteer groups to undertake mass plantings and invasive species pulls managing these spaces to functioning west coast ecosystems.   In the past fifteen years alone thousands of trees and native shrubs have been planted and are still standing strong. 

Along with naturalization programs through the park’s planning department, work has been undertaken in Jericho, Musqueam, Renfrew Ravine, Everett Crowley, Quilchena, Memorial West, Fraserview, Captain Cook, Malkin, Deering Island, and Hastings parks. Work is ongoing - keep your eyes open for upcoming events and opportunities.