Chum salmon return to spawn in Still Creek
For the fifth year in a row, following concerted rewilding and conservation efforts, chum salmon returned to Still Creek. Salmon returned in 2012 for the first time in nearly 80 years and have continued their annual return since then.
Watch a short clip on the restoration of Still Creek and the return of salmon, produced by the Rivers Institute at BCIT.
Still Creek updates, by project
2900 Nootka project
As part of the long-term action plan for Still Creek, the City and Metro Vancouver collaborated on a major enhancement project at this site:
- Removed the concrete flume that had forced the creek into a narrow channel for the past 50 years
- Reconstructed the creek bed and banks to improve stormwater capacity while providing a more naturalized habitat for fish and other species
- Provided a seating area as well as a pedestrian bridge and path for public access across Still Creek - improving access to nature and providing an important link in the neighbourhood
The project, completed in 2011, features a permeable asphalt pedestrian path which allows rainwater to soak into the ground while at the same time providing accessibility for people with mobility challenges.
3300 Cornett Road project
As part of the rezoning for the site at 2820 Bentall (Canadian Tire), the City required the developer to:
- Bring Still Creek to surface, also known as "daylighting"
- Pay for the daylighting of the creek
- Dedicate the required right-of-way
In the future, when the site to the north redevelops, the creek will be widened.
The new stream channel was completed with a more naturalized habitat in 2009.
3400 Cornett Road project
The design of this project:
- Removed two abandoned rail bridges along the creek
- Replaced invasive species with native species
- Installed fish habitat features
Construction was completed in August 2007.
3003 Grandview Highway project
Improvements included:
- Replacement of non-native blackberries with native vegetation
- Creation of a centre island
- Creation of a viewing platform with interpretive signage to enhance public access and understanding of the Creek
Construction was completed in summer 2005 with a community planting event the following fall.
This creek section, now reshaped and planted with native species, will mature into a naturalized area offering improved biodiversity and rainwater management capability.