NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING ENVIRONMENT AND PARKS COMMITTEE
12:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 11, 2012 2nd Floor Boardroom, 4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia.
A G E N D A
Note: Recommendation is shown under each item, where applicable.
1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1.1 September 11, 2012 Regular Meeting Agenda That the Environment and Parks Committee adopt the agenda for its regular meeting scheduled for September 11, 2012 as circulated.
2. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES
2.1 July 4, 2012 Regular Meeting Minutes That the Environment and Parks Committee adopt the minutes of its regular meeting held July 4, 2012 as circulated.
3. DELEGATIONS
3.1 Judy Williams and Cécile Bruyninckx Wreck Beach Preservation Society Subject: Gas emissions by motorized boats and jet skis - Personal Water Craft (PWC) in the swimming area at the Trail 6 Section of Wreck Beach
4. INVITED PRESENTATIONS No items presented.
5. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEE OR STAFF
5.1 Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver Funding Request Designated Speakers: Heather McNell, Division Manager Alison Evely, Natural Resource Management Specialist Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department That the Board approve a one-time $40,000 capacity building grant to the Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver (ISCMV) to facilitate the development of a regional invasive species strategy.
August 27, 2012
EP 120911 - 1 - 5.2 Western Economic Diversification Canada Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund Application Designated Speaker: Tom McComb, West Area Acting Manager Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department That the Board authorize a grant application in the amount of $250,000 to the Western Economic Diversification Canada Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund for Camp Capilano rehabilitation project in Capilano River Regional Park.
5.3 Experience the Fraser: Final Concept and Implementation Plans Designated Speakers: Heather McNell, Division Manager Wendy DaDalt, Parks East Area Division Manager Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department That the Board: a) adopt the Experience the Fraser Concept Plan; b) endorse the Experience the Fraser Implementation Plan for Local Governments; and c) approve the actions identified for Metro Vancouver subject to regular budget and planning processes, including maintaining the current governance structure for the project for the short to mid-term, but reviewing longer-term governance options.
5.4 Surrey Bend Regional Park - Transportation Investment Corporation (TI Corp) Proposal for Fish Habitat Compensation Project Designated Speakers: Frieda Schade, Central Area Parks Manager Alison Evely, Natural Resource Management Specialist Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the report dated August 22, 2012, titled “Surrey Bend Regional Park - Transportation Investment Corporation (TI Corp) Proposal for Fish Habitat Compensation Project”.
5.5 Riverview Lands – Update on Technical Submission to the Province Designated Speaker: Jamie Vala, Parks Planner Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the report dated August 14, 2012, titled “Riverview lands - Update on Technical Submission to the Province”.
5.6 Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008 - Staff Appointments Designated Speaker: Ray Robb, Division Manager Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department That the Board, pursuant to the Environmental Management Act and Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008: a) Appoint the following as Officers: Dennis Klick, Natasha Markovic- Mirovic and Susy Marble; and b) Appoint Darrell Wakelin as Assistant District Director; and c) Rescind Silvano Padovan as Assistant District Director and Officer.
EP 120911 - 2 - 5.7 Implications of the BC Carbon Tax for the Region Designated Speakers: Jason Emmert, Air Quality Planner Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department Ann Rowan, Sustainability Strategist, CAO’s Office That the Environment and Parks Committee direct staff to further develop the actions related to the carbon tax as outlined in the Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan, and provide more detailed recommendations to the Province. Those actions include: · The return of carbon tax revenues to local governments to fund greenhouse gas reduction actions; · Adjustment of the future carbon tax rate, including measures to mitigate the impact on low income households; and · Encourage adoption of the carbon tax in other jurisdictions.
5.8 Manager’s Report Designated Speaker: Gaëtan Royer, Manager Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the report dated August 7, 2012, titled “Manager’s Report”.
6. INFORMATION ITEMS
6.1 Summary of Events – Metro Vancouver’s Website Events Calendar.
6.2 Opening of Westminster Pier Park – Correspondence dated July 3, 2012 from Mayor Wayne Wright, City of New Westminster addressed to Heather McNell, Senior Planner, Metro Vancouver.
6.3 Salmonids in the Classroom Program in Maple Ridge School District – Correspondence dated July 3, 2012 from Bev Bowler, Education Coordinator, Fisheries and Oceans Canada addressed to Ross Davies, KEEPS.
6.4 Changes to Canada Fisheries Act – Correspondence dated June 21, 2012 from City of Burnaby addressed to Chair Greg Moore, Metro Vancouver Board.
6.5 Protection of Fish Habitat in Waterways – Correspondence dated June 21, 2012 from Mayor Derek Corrigan, City of Burnaby addressed to The Honourable Minister Keith Ashfield, Ministry of Fisheries and Oceans.
6.6 BC Climate Actions Charter – Correspondence dated July 20, 2012 from the Green Communities Committee addressed to Chair Greg Moore, Metro Vancouver Board.
6.7 Vancouver Landfill Technical Liaison Committee – Correspondence dated July 20, 2012 from The Corporation of Delta addressed to Metro Vancouver’s Environment Committee.
6.8 Interim Strategy for Addressing Sewage Heat Opportunities – Report dated June 28, 2012 included on the Utilities Committee Agenda of July 11th, 2012 meeting.
EP 120911 - 3 - 6.9 Juvenile arthritis camp changing lives in North Vancouver – News article dated July 26, 2012 published in North Shore News.
6.10 British Columbia State of the Air Report 2012 – Publication – BC Lung Association.
7. OTHER BUSINESS No items presented.
8. RESOLUTION TO CLOSE MEETING Staff Recommendation: That the Environment and Parks Committee close its regular meeting scheduled for September 11, 2012 pursuant to the Community Charter provisions, Section 90 (1) (e) (i) and 90 (2) (b) as follows: “90 (1) A part of a committee meeting may be closed to the public if the subject matter being considered relates to or is one or more of the following: (e) the acquisition, disposition or expropriation of land or improvements, if the board or committee considers that disclosure could reasonably be expected to harm the interests of the regional district; (i) the receipt of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; and “90 (2) A part of a meeting must be closed to the public if the subject matter being considered relates to one or more of the following: (b) the consideration of information received and held in confidence relating to negotiations between the regional district and a provincial government or the federal government or both, or between a provincial government or the federal government or both and a third party”.
9. ADJOURNMENT/TERMINATION That the Environment and Parks Committee conclude its regular meeting of September 11, 2012.
EP 120911 - 4 - 2.1 GREATER VANCOUVER REGIONAL DISTRICT ENVIRONMENT AND PARKS COMMITTEE
Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD) Environment and Parks Committee held at 9:01 a.m. on Wednesday, July 4, 2012 in the 2nd Floor Boardroom, 4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia.
PRESENT: Chair, Director Heather Deal, Vancouver Vice Chair, Director Gayle Martin, Langley City Director Bruce Banman, Abbotsford Director Sav Dhaliwal, Burnaby (arrived at 9:04 a.m.) Director Helen Fathers, White Rock Director Bob Long, Langley Township Councillor Darrell Penner, Port Coquitlam Councillor Selina Robinson, Coquitlam Director Andrew Stone, Bowen Island Councillor Barbara Steele, Surrey Director Harold Steves, Richmond Director Deb Walters, Pitt Meadows
ABSENT: None
STAFF: Delia Laglagaron, Interim Commissioner/Interim Chief Administrative Officer, Chief Administrative Officer’s Department Gaëtan Royer, Manager, Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department Janis Knaupp, Assistant to Regional Committees, Board Secretariat and Corporate Information Department
1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
1.1 July 4, 2012 Regular Meeting Agenda A member requested the addition of an item previously considered by the Committee related to the consideration of paintball in Metro Vancouver regional parks. The request was not seconded.
9:04 a.m. Director Dhaliwal arrived at the meeting.
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee adopt the agenda for its regular meeting scheduled for July 4, 2012 as circulated. CARRIED
Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the GVRD Environment and Parks Committee held on Wednesday, July 4, 2012 Page 1 of 6
EP 120911 - 5 - 2. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES
2.1 June 6, 2012 Regular Meeting Minutes
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee adopt the minutes of its regular meeting held June 6, 2012 as circulated. CARRIED
3. DELEGATIONS
3.1 Jennifer Grenz, Development and Projects Manager, Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver Jennifer Grenz, Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver (ISCMV), provided members with a presentation regarding the development of an invasive species strategy for Metro Vancouver highlighting: · ISCMV background and management area including target species affecting the Metro Vancouver region · Collaboration with the Real Estate Foundation of BC · Challenges, recommendations and benefits of a coordinated regional strategy including the need for consistent regulations and legislation and for municipalities to share data to effectively manage efforts · Project budget of $75,000 including in-kind staff resources and other potential funding sources
Members were requested to consider a funding contribution in the amount of $40,000 to coordinate the process for the development of a regional invasive species strategy for Metro Vancouver.
Members discussed: · Education resources and programs available to municipalities · The roles of municipalities in program implementation · Status and Metro Vancouver budget and impact to fund project · Coordination with the Fraser Valley Regional District · Individual species and landscape management strategies · Prioritizing target species through Best Management Practices · Collaboration with the Community Mapping Network
Request of Staff Staff was requested to follow up with Jennifer Grenz, Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver, on the PowerPoint presentation provided at the July 4, 2012 Environment and Parks Committee and forward the presentation to Committee members to share with their respective councils.
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee direct staff to report back with options for a comprehensive invasive species management strategy outlining the region’s current status and actions on how to address the concern. CARRIED
Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the GVRD Environment and Parks Committee held on Wednesday, July 4, 2012 Page 2 of 6
EP 120911 - 6 - Presentation material titled “A Regional Invasive Species Strategy for Metro Vancouver” is retained with the July 4, 2012 Environment and Parks Committee.
4. INVITED PRESENTATIONS
4.1 Dr. Bruce Fraser, Chair, BC Species at Risk Task Force Bruce Fraser, BC Species at Risk Task Force, informed members regarding the Report of the British Columbia Task Force on Species at Risk and Implications for Metro Vancouver highlighting: · A shift from species to landscape level protection and a focus to recover previously-existing ecosystems · Strategic actions including: o Requiring an ecosystem function component in new development; reintroduction of forest/wetlands; de-channelization of streams; protection of lake/stream foreshore, refurbishment of estuaries/eelgrass beds, managing agricultural soils, filtering edges of paved areas; creating basins allowing chemicals and debris to settle; and establishing park ecosystems as conservancy areas · The connection between impacts to individual species and the food web · Impacts to terrestrial and fresh water ecosystems from: development, dredging, river channelization and conversion of green space to housing · The need to access BC Conservation Data Centre information to effectively develop a framework and priorities for species recovery efforts · Private landowner challenges in accessing and protecting critical habitat · Using existing models to build upon (such as the Environmental Farm Plan Process) and the benefits to participants (access to expertise, grant funding to complete environmental footprint plans)
Members were further informed about: the correlation between cosmetic pesticide bans and impacts to native pollinators in relation to agriculture and challenges with moving forward on an ecosystem approach due to a lack of habitat protection in the Species at Risk Act, a lack of clarity on resource management roles among the provincial and federal governments and proposed changes to the Fisheries Act.
5. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEE OR STAFF
5.1 Aldergrove Lake Regional Park – Management Plan Draft Framework and Program Report dated June 18, 2012 from Jeffrey Fitzpatrick, East Area Park Planner and Valoree Richmond, Park Planner, Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department, seeking Environment and Parks Committee approval to use the Aldergrove Lake Regional Park (ALRP) Management Plan Draft Framework and Program as the basis for concept options to be tested at a public Open House in September 2012.
Members suggested that consideration be given to: establishing native plant gardens with a focus on native pollinator species, and developing play experiences targeted at youth aged 12-years and older. Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the GVRD Environment and Parks Committee held on Wednesday, July 4, 2012 Page 3 of 6
EP 120911 - 7 -
Presentation material titled “Aldergrove Lake Regional Park Management Plan Draft Framework and Program” is retained with the July 4, 2012 Environment and Parks Committee.
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee approve the Aldergrove Lake Regional Park Management Plan Draft Framework and Program as the basis for consultation. CARRIED
5.2 Experience the Fraser - Concept Plan Revisions and Implementation Plan Key Directions Report dated June 18, 2012 from Wendy DaDalt, East Area Regional Parks Division Manager and Heather McNell, Senior Regional Planner, Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department, seeking endorsement from the Environment and Parks Committee for the proposed allocation of grant funds received from the Province and changes to the Experience the Fraser Concept Plan.
Members were informed that the Fraser Valley Regional District will consider a similar report on the matter and recommendations arising from Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley Regional District will be forwarded to the political steering committee.
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee endorse the proposed: a) allocation of Provincial grant funds; and b) changes to the Experience the Fraser Concept Plan. CARRIED
5.3 Organic Materials Processing Odour Emission Control Regulatory Model Report dated June 14, 2012 from Ray Robb, Environmental Regulation and Enforcement Division Manager and Kevin Stock, Senior Policy Analyst, Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department, informing the Environment and Parks Committee of consultation planned for a proposed regulatory model to control odour from facilities processing organic materials.
Members were informed that regulated, publically-owned facilities are exempt from odour emissions regulations. Members suggested the report be forwarded to the Regional Planning and Agriculture Committee and commented that Committee Chairs should receive reports in a timely manner in order to respond to media inquiries in advance of Committee meetings.
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the report dated June 14, 2012, titled “Organic Materials Processing Odour Emission Control Regulatory Model”. CARRIED
Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the GVRD Environment and Parks Committee held on Wednesday, July 4, 2012 Page 4 of 6
EP 120911 - 8 -
5.4 Metro Vancouver’s Progress Towards Carbon Neutrality Under the BC Climate Action Charter Report dated June 22, 2012 from Conor Reynolds, Senior Project Engineer, Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department and Jeff Carmichael, Utility Research and Opportunities Project Division Manager, Utility Planning Department, regarding Metro Vancouver’s progress towards carbon neutrality under the BC Climate Action Charter.
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the report dated June 22, 2012, titled “Metro Vancouver’s Progress Towards Carbon Neutrality Under the BC Climate Action Charter”. CARRIED
5.5 Manager’s Report Report dated June 12, 2012 from Gaëtan Royer, Manager, Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department, updating the Environment and Parks Committee on the Committee’s 2012 Workplan, outcomes from the June 6, 2012 public information meeting on the Capilano River Regional Park Dog Management Pilot Project, Colony Farm Regional Park: Phase 1 – Site Preparation for Farming, Experience the Fraser, itinerary for the Committee’s August 1, 2012 parks tour, Fraser River flooding in East Area Regional Park and announcements, media events and ceremonies.
Members were informed that staff have updated the Experience the Fraser report and most municipalities have received a presentation to date.
Regarding flooding in East Area Regional Parks, members were informed that: · Flooding at the Mission Gauge reached 6.4m with financial impacts projected at $100,000 · Derby Reach campsites were fully submerged and will require repair · Staff carried out Fraser River shoreline patrols assessing flooding risks and managing public safety · The Matsqui Trail was the worst-impacted by flooding in the East Area · Rehabilitation expenditures will be drawn from reserves and application will be made to the provincial emergency fund (flooding costs are tracked)
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the report dated June 12, 2012, titled “Manager’s Report”. CARRIED
6. INFORMATION ITEMS
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the following Information Items: 6.1 Summary of Events – Snapshot of Metro Vancouver’s Website Event Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the GVRD Environment and Parks Committee held on Wednesday, July 4, 2012 Page 5 of 6
EP 120911 - 9 - Calendar.
6.2 Possible Changes to the Canada Fisheries Act – Correspondence dated June 6, 2012 from Greg Moore, Chair, Metro Vancouver Board addressed to The Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada regarding possible changes to the Canada Fisheries Act. 6.3 Diesel Exhaust Fumes Can Cause Cancer – News article dated June 12, 2012 – Scientific American. CARRIED
7. OTHER BUSINESS No items presented.
8. RESOLUTION TO CLOSE MEETING
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee close its regular meeting scheduled for July 4, 2012 pursuant to the Community Charter provisions, Section 90 (1) (e), (j) and (k) as follows: “90 (1) A part of a committee meeting may be closed to the public if the subject matter being considered relates to or is one or more of the following: (e) the acquisition, disposition or expropriation of land or improvements, if the board or committee considers that disclosure could reasonably be expected to harm the interests of the regional district; (j) information that is prohibited, or information that if it were presented in a document would be prohibited, from disclosure under section 21 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act; and (k) negotiations and related discussions respecting the proposed provision of a regional district service that are at their preliminary stages and that, in the view of the board or committee, could reasonably be expected to harm the interests of the regional district if they were held in public”. CARRIED
9. ADJOURNMENT/TERMINATION
It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Environment and Parks Committee adjourn its regular meeting of July 4, 2012. CARRIED (Time: 10:44 p.m.)
______Janis Knaupp, Heather Deal, Chair Assistant to Regional Committees
6317399 FINAL Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the GVRD Environment and Parks Committee held on Wednesday, July 4, 2012 Page 6 of 6
EP 120911 - 10 - Cecile Bruyninckx 206-1990 West 6th Avenue Vancouver, BC V6J 4V4 (604) 642-0406
August 23, 2012
Board Secretariat and Corporate Information Department Metro Vancouver Environment and Parks Committee 4330 Kingsway Burnaby, BC V5H 4G8
RE. Requesting to appear in front of the Environment and Parks Committee regarding gas emissions by motorized boats and jet skis (PWC) in the swimming area at the Trail 6 Section of Wreck Beach
Dear Chairman Deal and Members of the Committee,
As a personal user of Wreck Beach for 14 years, and with the support of the Wreck Beach Preservation Society (WBPS), I request the opportunity to appear in front of the Environment and Parks Committee scheduled on the 12th of September.
Judy Williams, Chair of the Wreck Beach Preservation Society, and I want to express our deep concerns regarding gas emissions and release of raw hydrocarbon fuel into Wreck Beach receiving waters by operation of motorized boats and jet skis among swimmers at Wreck Beach and to present a petition from beach users regarding all issues faced by us. Eventually we will find a solution to avoid the noxious fumes and poor air quality of such emissions (the air turns blue), water contamination and the operational dangers such motorized vessels represent.
We respectfully ask the Committee to: (1) recognize the negative impacts made on the environment (air and water) and immediate threat to swimmers and waders by the use of motorized boats and PWC’s; (2) to support us in our request to control the numbers and types of motorized vessels; 3) to vote to allow us to appear before the entire Metro Vancouver Board. Our final goal is to have the motorized boats and PWC’s declared off-limits at the Trail 6 Section of the Wreck Beach swimming area.
We are also looking to be clearly told who has jurisdiction over these waters as we now understand that it is a combination of Transport Canada, Port Metro Vancouver and Metro Vancouver West Area Parks.
Should you require additional information; please do not hesitate to contact me or Ms.Williams.
Best regards, Cécile Bruyninckx
EP 120911 - 11 -
5.1
Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012
To: Environment and Parks Committee
From: Heather McNell, Regional Planning Division Manager Alison Evely, Natural Resource Management Specialist Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department
Date: August 16, 2012
Subject: Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver Funding Request
Recommendation:
That the Board approve a one-time $40,000 capacity building grant to the Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver (ISCMV) to facilitate the development of a regional invasive species strategy.
1. PURPOSE
To respond to a request submitted during a July 4, 2012 delegation to the Environment and Parks Committee by the Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver for a $40,000 contribution to develop a regional strategy to manage invasive species in Metro Vancouver.
2. CONTEXT
At its July 4, 2012 meeting, the Environment and Parks Committee requested a staff report outlining the region’s current strategies and initiatives dealing with Invasive Species, and providing options for the development of a comprehensive strategy for the region.
The Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver (ISCMV) The ISCMV is a non-profit society that works to raise the profile of invasive species issues, provides education and planning assistance to the public and land managers, conducts on- the-ground management of invasive plants (inventory and control), conducts research, and provides regional direction on invasive species management. The ISCMV’s activities are overseen by a Board of Directors with representatives from municipal, regional and provincial government, academia, NGOs and industry (Attachment 1). The ISCMV requested a $40,000 contribution from Metro Vancouver’s Environment and Parks Committee to facilitate the development of a regional invasive species strategy.
The goals of the proposed regional strategy include facilitating shared decision-making and enabling municipalities, Metro Vancouver and other agencies to work collaboratively to prevent the spread of invasive species, set priorities and develop best practices and policies to effectively address the issue across jurisdictional boundaries.
EP 120911 - 12 - Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver Funding Request Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012 Page 2 of 4
The anticipated cost of developing the strategy is approximately $120,000. Although no specific amounts have yet been committed, the following agencies have committed to some financial support for the project: the Ministry of Transportation, Ministry of Forests, Lands and Resource Operations, BC Parks, District of North Vancouver, and BC Hydro. The ISCMV also plans to apply for private sector environmental grants available to NGOs, anticipating an additional $40,000 from these grants. They will provide approximately $40,000 of in-kind contributions, mostly staff time.
Invasive Species Management within Metro Vancouver Currently, invasive species management in the region is a patchwork of initiatives that vary in scope and practice. Lack of coordination among jurisdictions was cited as a significant barrier to effective invasive species management by land managers at the ISCMV annual general meeting. This is one of the main drivers for the development of a regional strategy.
Corporately, under the Weed Control Act, Metro Vancouver has the responsibility to manage designated noxious weeds at all its facilities. In addition, our investments in infrastructure, buildings, and the ecological function of parks and watersheds, are at risk from the impacts of invasive species. This creates a strong case for more active management.
Metro Vancouver does not currently have a corporate-wide strategy to deal with invasive species. Regional Parks use an internally developed Integrated Pest Management Plan to conserve ecological integrity, protect park infrastructure and mitigate health risks for park visitors (Attachment 2). The plan focuses on prevention, inventory and monitoring, setting priorities, and choosing the best control method based on environmental, social and financial considerations. Metro Vancouver’s Integrated Pest Management Plan for Regional Parks (IPMP) is similar to, and compatible with, the IPMP developed by the Province for provincial parks, highways and forest lands in the coastal region.
In support of the IPMP, Parks engages in a number of activities: · In 2012, approximately $75,000 was invested in the treatment of knotweed in fifteen regional parks. This work was contracted out to a number of agencies including ISCMV crews. Knotweed ranged from small patches to large scale infestations. Four of the fifteen sites were retreatment areas. · Lamium was treated in two parks. · Prevention is a cornerstone of the IPMP. Staff share Best Management Practices for vegetation management to help prevent the spread of invasive species. · Through an Early Detection Rapid Response program, staff check for hogweed (highest priority plant) each year, and remove any if found. · Staff developed a database and mapping protocols to inventory invasive plants, set priorities for treatment and monitor effectiveness. · MV Regional Parks hosts over 100 volunteer work parties each year through Park Associations, Weedbuster Program, corporate groups and the Green Team to remove invasives. · Staff in Parks and Solid Waste collaborate to develop an approach for the proper disposal of invasive plants. · Parks supports research on innovative invasive species management such as testing the efficacy of a naturally occurring fungus to control the re-growth of cut stems of invasive species.
EP 120911 - 13 - Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver Funding Request Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012 Page 3 of 4
Anything short of a Developing a Regional Strategy coordinated attack There is a compelling and growing need to both confirm leading to eradication Metro Vancouver’s broader corporate approach to managing invasive species, and to participate in the becomes a long term development of a comprehensive strategy for managing make-work project as invasive species in the region. Invasive species travel invasive plants spread across jurisdictions through pollination, wind, roots, improper disposal and negligence. The best return on the and return. huge investments being made in the region is a coordinated attack leading to eradication. Anything short of that becomes a long term make-work project as invasive plants spread and return.
The BC Weed Control Act imposes a duty on occupiers of land to control noxious weeds on their property. In July 2011 the Province signed an Order in Council designating 18 new invasive plants as noxious weeds. Many of the most troublesome invasive plants in the region have now been designated as noxious weeds and are targeted for eradication.
The ISCMV has developed considerable expertise in invasive species management, is well- respected and has developed excellent working relationships with stakeholders. The council’s Board of Directors has representation from all levels of government and is part of a network of invasive species councils and regional weed committees throughout the province.
If granted, funding would be used by the ISCMV to hire a technical writer/facilitator and to support a technical committee participating in the development of the strategy, comprised of members from the province, each municipality, Metro Vancouver, ISCMV staff, and other agencies involved in invasive species management. Once the strategy is reviewed and approved by the ISCMV Board, the ISCMV would print and distribute the plan and would support land managers in adopting the strategy’s guidelines. The MV Board would be free to respond to the document as it sees fit.
Having the ISCMV facilitate the development of a regional strategy for invasive species management would: enable Metro Vancouver’s participation; ensure a region-wide approach to invasive species management; build on the well established cooperation between the IPCMV and municipal regional and other agencies; be a more cost-effective approach than Metro Vancouver completing the strategy; require fewer staff resources; and would demonstrate Metro Vancouver’s commitment to a regional approach to addressing invasive species.
If approved, funds for this grant will be included in the 2013 budget.
3. ALTERNATIVES
That the Board:
1. Approve a one-time $40,000 capacity building grant to the Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver (ISCMV) to facilitate the development of a regional invasive species strategy. or
2. Provide alternative direction to staff.
EP 120911 - 14 - Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver Funding Request Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012 Page 4 of 4
4. CONCLUSION
In response to the Committee’s request on the Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver’s request for funding, staff are recommending that a one-time $40,000 capacity building grant be provide to the ISCMV to facilitate the development of a regional invasive species strategy.
ATTACHMENTS
1. ISCMV Board of Directors - Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver (Doc. # 6388526).
2. Integrated Pest Management Plan for the Management of Invasive Plants in Regional Parks (Table of Contents) (Doc. # 6389003).
6389169
EP 120911 - 15 - Attachment 1: ISCMV Board of Directors
Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver
IPCMV is a non profit society that began in 2006 as the Greater Vancouver Invasive Plant Council. IPCMV works closely with land managers throughout the Metro Vancouver region on invasive species issues. These land managers include: Federal government Provincial government Regional government Municipal governments Environmental stewardship groups Academic institutions Nurseries Landscapers Private land-owners Non-profit organizations
ISCMV's Board of Directors is a group of volunteers from different stakeholder groups in the region that help to guide and shape the activities of the ISCMV. Our Board members help us to fulfil our mandate.
Executive Chair, Mark Brown, District of North Vancouver Vice Chair, Norm Caldicott, British Columbia Institute of Technology Treasurer, Shannon Wagner, City of Coquitlam
Board Members Glen Carlson, GoConserve Environmental Consulting Joanna Hirner, BC Parks Fiona Steele, Diamond Head Consulting Amber Smith, BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure Melinda Yong, City of Burnaby Caroline Astley, Hemmera Angela Negenman, City of North Vancouver Jude Grass, ISCBC/BC Nature Alison Evely, Metro Vancouver Kim Houghton, Corporation of Delta
EP 120911 - 16 -
Integrated Pest Management Plan
January 2012
A Framework for the Management of Invasive Plants in Regional Parks
EP 120911 - 17 -
Developed by:
Alison Evely, R.P.Bio Janice Jarvis, R.P.Bio Markus Merkens, M.P.M , R.P.Bio
Natural Resource Management Specialists For Metro Vancouver Parks
January 2012
EP 120911 - 18 -
Integrated Pest Management Plan: A Framework for the Management of Invasive Plants in Regional Parks
Executive Summary
A primary goal identified in the Regional Parks Plan (Sept 2011) is to manage regional parks to protect and improve ecological health. The parks plan identifies the need to “manage invasive plants that threaten the structure, function or composition of regional park ecosystems using an integrated pest management approach and best management practices for the safe disposal of invasive plants.” The plan commits Metro Vancouver to an integrated pest management approach as defined in the Integrated Pest Management Act and Regulations. This may include the judicious use of pesticides where other methods are ineffective, have deleterious impacts on park resources, or are prohibitively expensive.
This document is divided into four sections:
Section 1 provides the legislative context; principles of invasive plant management; and ecology of invasion.
Section 2 presents an Integrated Pest Management Plan as defined in the Integrated Pest Management Act and Regulations. The elements of the plan, as required under the legislation, are integrated and interdependent; each is part of a “tool-kit” for effective pest management. The components of an IPMP are: Planning and managing ecosystems to prevent organisms from becoming pests; Identifying pest problems and potential pest problems; Monitoring populations of pests and beneficial organisms, damage caused by pests, and environmental conditions; Using injury thresholds in making treatment decisions; Suppressing pest populations to acceptable levels using strategies based on considerations of biological, physical, cultural, mechanical, behavioral and chemical controls in appropriate combinations, Environmental and human health protection; and Evaluating the effectiveness of pest management treatments.
Section 3 discusses staff roles and responsibilities.
Section 4 provides appendices including detailed plant information and management options for individual species. The appendices reflect current thinking and are likely to change as new information becomes available and management strategies are tested and adjusted.
i
EP 120911 - 19 -
5.2
Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012
To: Environment and Parks Committee
From: Tom McComb, West Area Acting Manager Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department
Date: August 15, 2012
Subject: Western Economic Diversification Canada Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund Application
Recommendation:
That the Board authorize a grant application in the amount of $250,000 to the Western Economic Diversification Canada Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund for Camp Capilano rehabilitation project in Capilano River Regional Park.
1. PURPOSE
To obtain Board authorization for a grant application post submission due to the Federal Government August 2, 2012 deadline in the amount of $250,000 to the Western Economic Diversification Canada Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund for rehabilitation work at Camp Capilano.
2. CONTEXT
The Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF) is a new two-year national program that will invest $150 million to rehabilitate and improve existing community infrastructure across Canada. CIIF supports the rehabilitation or improvement of existing community infrastructure that is non-commercial and accessible to the public. Applicants seeking less than $250,000 in CIIF funding will receive priority. Eligible projects must complete all work prior to March 31, 2014. The first intake for the CIIF applications closed on August 2, 2012.
Camp Capilano The initial structure for the camp was built in 1946 to provide children from the inner city an opportunity for an overnight camping experience in a forested setting within the picturesque Capilano River corridor. The initial pan-a-bode-style camp building was expanded over subsequent years to incorporate additional camp programming space and facilities (e.g. swimming pool). Camp Capilano has two separate dormitories each with shower and washroom facilities, beds for 20 campers and separate bedrooms for two leaders each, providing capacity for 44 visitors and a residence for the camp supervisor. The Camp has a large common room with fireplace, a large eating area and a fully equipped institutional kitchen. Outside, the Camp has a heated swimming pool, a small play area and a campfire circle.
EP 120911 - 20 - Western Economic Diversification Canada Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund Application Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012 Page 2 of 2
Camp Capilano is an extremely popular facility and it is booked approximately 286 days and or nights annually. That is an occupancy rate of over eighty percent, given days closed for cleaning and annual maintenance. The primary users of the camp remain youth. Ninety percent of all bookings are youth oriented organizations.
A recently completed facility condition assessment report highlighted the need for high priority rehabilitation work that has been broken out into three phases of work. The first phase of rehabilitation work includes roof replacement, structural repairs, accessibility improvements, and additional upgrades to meet code requirements. Overall costs for all three phases total approximately $800,000. The work will extend the life of the facility for a further 12 to 15 years.
The Camp facility design and layout is not consistent with youth camp design of modern day facilities. It is proposed that phase one rehabilitation work proceed and simultaneously staff will undertake further planning to evaluate options for expansion and or changes to the facility layout that would meet or exceed the current facility programming. Staff intend to report back at a future date on the planning phase of this work. In the meantime, phase one of the rehabilitation work is deemed critical.
3. ALTERNATIVES
Option 1: Adopt the recommendation as proposed. Authorize the submission of the grant application requesting $250,000 to the Western Economic Diversification Canada Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund for Camp Capilano rehabilitation project in Capilano River Regional Park.
Option 2: Amend the recommendation.
4. CONCLUSION
Staff recommends Option 1. Should the $250,000 grant from the Western Economic Diversification Canada Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund be successful, the funding will off-set the overall project costs which are estimated to be $800,000. The Camp Capilano facilities are in need of upgrades to prolong the life of the facility.
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5.3
Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012
To: Environment and Parks Committee
From: Heather McNell, Regional Planning Division Manager Wendy DaDalt, Parks East Area Division Manager Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department
Date: August 16, 2012
Subject: Experience the Fraser: Final Concept and Implementation Plans
Recommendation:
That the Board: a) adopt the Experience the Fraser Concept Plan; b) endorse the Experience the Fraser Implementation Plan for Local Governments; and c) approve the actions identified for Metro Vancouver subject to regular budget and planning processes, including maintaining the current governance structure for the project for the short to mid-term, but reviewing longer-term governance options.
1. PURPOSE
To seek Board adoption of the Experience the Fraser Concept Plan, endorsement of the Experience the Fraser Implementation Plan for Local Governments, with accompanying adoption of actions identified for Metro Vancouver.
2. CONTEXT
The Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD) Boards respectively endorsed and approved the Experience the Fraser Concept Plan in principle in October 2011 as the basis for ongoing outreach. Staff undertook a significant outreach program including a November 2011 workshop on advancing implementation. This highly successful event was attended by over fifty organizations. Outreach also included presentations at the Lower Mainland Local Government Association and the Planning Institute of BC’s annual conferences, and presentations to 11 municipal councils in Metro Vancouver. Municipal Councils adopted resolutions providing support for the project and committing to integrate ETF in local plans. Through this outreach, several changes to the ETF Concept Plan were proposed. In July 2012, the Environment and Parks Committee endorsed the proposed changes to the Concept Plan. These changes included: · Adding the North Arm of the Fraser River into the Project Area; · Expanding the Project Area to include all of Colony Farm Regional Park and a section of the Pitt River north of the Pitt River Bridge; · Strengthening the language dealing with recreational connectivity across all Lower Fraser River bridges; · Removing the Trail’s Interim Route in the Fraser Valley Regional District; · Changing the name of the Abbotsford Node to Matsqui and its location and name changes to two other nodes (Citadel to Citadel Landing and Tilbury to Sunbury); and
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· Minor text changes in an effort to clarify intent, fix errors, and add the objective of universally accessible facilities where feasible.
The updated and final Experience the Fraser Concept Plan is Attachment 1.
Also in fall 2011, staff committed to report back to the Board with an Implementation Plan that identifies priority actions, addresses the allocation of the recent $1,000,000 provincial grant, and provides options for future governance and financing (Attachment 2).
The Joint ETF Political Steering Committee, with representation from Metro Vancouver, FVRD and the Provincial Government, at its August 2012 meeting, supported advancing the final Concept Plan and the Implementation Plan to both Regional District Boards for adoption and endorsement respectively.
The Implementation Plan The Implementation Plan is an accompanying piece to the Experience the Fraser Concept Plan intended to identify actions that will advance the Concept Plan’s Foundational Program planned by Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley Regional District, the Province and the sixteen municipalities along the Fraser River within the Project Area for the next 3-5 years.
The structure of the Implementation Plan follows the structure of the Concept Plan, listing actions by Goal and Foundational Program project. The identified actions will be subject to budget processes and other approvals. As a result, the plan is a snapshot of planned actions that will evolve over time, with new opportunities emerging, and the flexibility to respond to changing priorities. The Implementation Plan is intended to both be a record of planned government actions as well as a call to action for others to participate and add their projects and plans to Experience the Fraser. The Implementation Plan will be a living document that will become even more robust as others add their actions.
The two regional districts are being asked to endorse the Implementation Plan, and adopt actions within their authority and mandate. Other agencies and organizations are invited to do the same.
Plan Implications The Implementation Plan identifies 68 actions to advance the Experience the Fraser Concept Plan’s Foundation Program; 36 of those actions involve Metro Vancouver. Metro Vancouver was one of ETF’s founding partners, and a lead in the Concept and Implementation Planning phases. At the same time, Metro Vancouver has also been implementing ETF through its Regional Parks function as the Fraser River has always been a focal point for park and trail development. The Demonstration Project at Derby Reach Regional Park is but one such example. However, as the planning phase of the project begins to wrap up, potential and ongoing roles for the Corporation should be considered.
Capital Projects The majority of actions identified for Metro Vancouver in the Implementation Plan are already part of, or embedded into, the Metro Vancouver Regional Parks plans and programs. Certain projects have been augmented by Provincial grant funding and a particular Fraser River focus. There are no new costs associated with embedding ETF into Parks’ Capital Program at this time.
Governance Staff is recommending that Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley Regional District continue to jointly and collaboratively lead ETF for the next three to five years while
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Experience the Fraser: Final Concept and Implementation Plans Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012 Page 3 of 3
exploring and advancing a long-term governance model. Two preferred options are being proposed for exploration: an Experience the Fraser Board, akin to the Okanagan Water Board and / or an Experience the Fraser Foundation, like the Trans Canada Trail Foundation (Attachment 3).
The implications for Metro Vancouver continuing in a leadership role include the following: integrating the North Arm of the Fraser into the project; ongoing partnership development; developing design guidelines for interfacing with industry; continuing to advance solutions to issues of joint concern (e.g. protocol for recreational access to dykes); continuing to be a joint project administrator, convener and champion; tracking progress; and reporting out on implementation.
There are no additional costs foreseen with maintaining this role for the remainder of 2012, nor for 2013, as 10% of the grant received from the Province in April 2012 has been designated for this purpose. Any outstanding costs can be funded from funds rolled over from 2012 and integration with existing planning resources.
3. ALTERNATIVES
That the Board: a) adopt the Experience the Fraser Concept Plan; b) endorse the Experience the Fraser Implementation Plan for Local Governments; and c) approve the actions identified for Metro Vancouver subject to regular budget and planning processes, including maintaining the current governance structure for the project for the short to mid-term, but reviewing longer-term governance options. or d) provide alternative direction to staff.
4. CONCLUSION
The Metro Vancouver Board endorsed the ETF Concept Plan in principle in October, 2011. After a significant outreach program, some relatively minor changes to the Concept Plan have been made, and an accompanying Implementation Plan for Local Governments developed. This point of transition for the Board after three years of ongoing leadership in Experience the Fraser is cause for celebration. Staff are seeking adoption of the final Concept Plan, endorsement of the project’s Implementation Plan and adoption of Metro Vancouver actions.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Experience the Fraser – Lower Fraser River Corridor Project – Concept Plan (Doc. #6417202).
2. Experience the Fraser – Lower Fraser River Corridor Project – Implementation Plan for local governments (Doc. # 6420655).
3. Examples of Preferred Governance Models (Doc. # 6417408).
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EXPERIENCE THE FRASER Lower Fraser River Corridor Project concept plan
EP 120911 - 25 - 2 Fraser River at Harrison and Pegleg Bars, Chilliwack
“...it flows majestically, unhurriedly, towards the Pacific Ocean.”
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 26 - 3
“At Hope, the Fraser River abandons the last remnants of its wild past, swings westward in a great 90 degree arc and assumes a tranquil face as it flows majestically, unhurriedly, towards the Pacific Ocean. Still 140 kilometres from the sea, the river at Hope is only about five metres above salt water. For a while mountains loom darkly overhead, reluctant to let the river go; discreet- ly, they withdraw to a respectful distance. Now, at last, the Fraser has space enough to assume a width appropriate to its grandeur. The valley widens, fertile with soil carried by the river from eroding slopes hundreds of kilometres upstream. Caressed by a gentle oceanic climate, the green and pleasant land is a widening cornucopia pouring its wealth toward the sea.”
Richard C. Bocking - Mighty River, A Portrait of the Fraser (1997)
EP 120911 - 27 - 4 Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... 7
1.0 A BOLD VISION...... 8
1.1 VISION...... 9
1.2 GOALS...... 12 Goal 1 Connect Hope to the Salish Sea ...... 12 Goal 2 Link and inspire experiences along the river ...... 13 Goal 3 Develop enduring and committed partnerships ...... 14 Goal 4 Build and deepen connections to the river ...... 15
1.3 PROJECT BACKGROUND...... 16 Demonstration Projects...... 17
1.4 CONNECTED NETWORKS… Situating Experience the Fraser...... 18
1.5 LEARNING and DRAWING INSPIRATION from OTHER SUCCESSES...... 20 Mountains to Sound...... 20 Waterfront Trail...... 21 The Confluence...... 21
1.6 THEMES...... 22
1.7 A STORIED RIVER… stories of people and place unfolding...... 24
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 28 - 5
2.0 EXPERIENCE THE FRASER: THE CONCEPT ...... 28
2.1 THE CONCEPT ...... 29
2.2 ELEMENTS...... 33 ‘Canyon to Coast’ Trail ...... 33 Recreational Blueway...... 35 Amenity and Feature Points ...... 35 Nodes...... 36 Portals...... 42
2.3 ILLUSTRATIVE FOUNDATIONAL PROGRAM ...... 44
2.4 ASPIRATIONS… More BIG Ideas ...... 49
3.0 NEXT STEPS ...... 52
3.1 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES ...... 53
Acknowledgements...... 56
Photo Credits...... 57
List of Figures
Figure 1: The Project Area...... 10
Figure 2: Connected Networks: Situating Experience the Fraser ...... 18
Figure 3: Experience the Fraser: Concept Plan Map...... 30
Figure 4: ETF Planning Atlas...... 32
Figure 5: Bridges along the Lower Fraser River...... 34
West Delta EP 120911 - 29 - 6 Pitt Meadows
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 30 - 7
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Experience the Fraser (ETF) is a recreational, cultural and heritage project that extends along the Lower Fraser River Corridor connecting Hope to the Salish Sea. The ETF Concept Plan expresses the Project’s Vision and Goals and presents a framework for the long-term development of this land and water based initiative that aims to showcase the Fraser River and its rich natural and cultural heritage. It presents Trail and Blueway routes which form the signature backbone of the project, and which link communities and Fraser River themed features, amenities and experiences. The Concept Plan presents a number of opportunities to add to and build upon these experiences, therefore in sum creating an outstanding world class destination. The Plan also offers an Illustrative Foundational Program that once completed would define an ETF identity and brand, and provide a solid presence and framework from which to continue to build the project. A series of implementation strategies is also identified, establishing strategic priorities to move the project toward implementation.
EP 120911 - 31 - 8 Northern Saw-whet Owl
1.0 A BOLD VISION
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 32 - 9
1.1 VISION
Experience the Fraser is an invitation to “experience and explore the dynamic Lower Fraser River Corridor from Hope to the Salish Sea… to celebrate the spirit and stories of its varied landscapes, diverse communities and rich natural and cultural heritage.
Experience the Fraser is a recreational, cultural and heritage project defined by the Fraser River that seeks to connect communities and the places where Fraser River themes and stories can be experienced from canyon to coast. At its heart, ETF is defined by over 550 kilometres of trails and a ecreationalr blueway with ample amenities to support both land and water based use. The Trail will connect existing points of interest, amenities and features along the Lower Fraser River Corridor, and once in place, will also be a catalyst for others to package and add their own Fraser River experiences. The result will be the creation of a unique product that provides unprecedented opportunities to celebrate shared culture and heritage; to showcase the Lower Fraser River Corridor and its landscapes, features, wildlife and people as one of the great river communities of the world; to link and create a suite of outstanding tourist attractions; encourage active and healthy living; and to enhance land and water-based recreational opportunities throughout the region.
EP 120911 - 33 - Centre Creek, Surrey Bend Regional Park 10
Figure 1: The Project Area
The Project Area extends 160 km from Hope to the Salish Sea. Its width varies to capture as many Fraser River communities and points of interest as possible and to allow for trail routing. Additionally, the following areas were intentionally included: BC Ferries’ Tsawwassen Terminal and Causeway; the Tsawwassen First Nation and Delta waterfronts; Pitt River past the Pitt River Bridge; Kanaka Creek to Rolley Lake and south along the Hayward Lake and Stave River; Harrison River to Harrison Lake; Sumas Mountain; the Vedder Canal to the Keith Wilson Bridge; and routing options through Kent and Electoral Area B. The Project Area is more than 100,000 hectares in size, and about 20% of the shoreline is protected. The North Arm of the Fraser was added as part of the Concept Planning process. This addition brings Vancouver, Burnaby, and the northern part of Richmond into the Project. The planning work for this addition will be undertaken in the early phases of Implementation, and the results will be added to this plan as an addendum.
The Fraser River travels nearly 1,400 kilometres from its headwaters in the Rockies to the Salish Sea1. The ‘Mighty Fraser’ drains a quarter of British Columbia and is the tenth longest river in the world. By the time the river runs past Hope, it has flowed from rushing river to alluvial plain, characterized by large gravel eaches,r and soon slows and stretches further into the Fraser estuary. The Lower Fraser is home to more than 2.3 million people and is the confluence of a myriad of cultures, values, interests, and activities that interact with, and are often dependent on, the river. The Fraser River has an incredible history and continues to be a defining feature in the Province of British Columbia, playing an integral role in the lives of Lower Fraser River residents. Here are just some of the values, interests and activities associated with the river:
1 The Province of BC, jointly with Washington State, officially named the area covered by the inland waterways of the Strait of Georgia and Puget Sound the Salish Sea in 2010. This official name pays homage to the Coast Salish peoples’ collective history and this rich and diverse marine ecosystem. Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 34 - • First Nations have lived, travelled and traded along the important ecosystem3. It has the largest wintering 11 lower reaches of the river for thousands of years. The concentrations of water birds and raptors in Canada, and Stó:lō, whose traditional territory spans beyond the entire provides significant habitat and feeding areas along the project area, are known as the People of the River. By Pacific Flyway. It is the largest salmon producing river believing in S’ólh Téméxw te íkw’élò - Xólhmet te mekw’ along the Pacific Coast and is one of three rivers in BC in stám ít kwelát, which means “This is our land - We have which white sturgeon spawn. to look after everything that belongs to us,”protecting, • The Fraser River is integral to industry as a transportation preserving, and managing heritage and environment in corridor and location for businesses, including pulp and a way that is consistent with Stó:lō values, beliefs, and sawmills, piling and dredging companies, fisheries, and traditions, is an overarching guiding principle. fish processing. It plays a vital role the region’s economy • Named after Simon Fraser, the first European to fully contributing to 80% of the provincial economic output. travel its waters in 1808, the Fraser River was designated • Port Metro Vancouver cargo terminals and other port as a Canadian Heritage River in 1998 to honour its rich activities are essential to the functioning of our economy cultural and natural history2. and metropolitan region. Their jurisdiction stretches • Parts of the Lower Fraser were initially dyked in the across 600 kilometres of shoreline and waterways 1860s and 1870s by early settlers to create and protect including the Fraser River up to Kanaka Creek. The Port agricultural lands. Early dyking efforts were found in trades $75 billion in goods annually with more than 160 Chilliwack, Sumas and Matsqui prairie areas as well trading economies, generating over 125,000 jobs, and as on Lulu Island. The Fraser Delta has some of the $10.5 billion in GDP. richest agricultural soils in Canada, is home to diverse • A number of communities line the banks of the river and agricultural operations growing over 130 different people continue to be drawn to live along its edge. products, and although it comprises only 1.5 percent
of the total agricultural land in BC, it generates over a • The Lower Fraser River Corridor also provides ample quarter of the Province’s gross farm income. recreation opportunities including wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking, geocaching, cycling, camping, boating, or • The Fraser River estuary, one of the largest along the horseback riding. west coast of North America, is recognized as a globally
• The Lower Fraser River Corridor is an integral part of BC’s Tourism industry which generates $12.7 billion in revenues annually. People come from all over the world to experience a combination of the interests and themes listed above. ETF will create an even greater draw to this part of the province.
2 t he Canadian Heritage River System (CHRS) Board, made up of private citizens and officials appointed by federal and provincial governments called the Fraser a `river of superlatives`. The CHRS was established in 1984 to conserve rivers with outstanding natural, cultural and recre- 3 RAMSAR site at Alaksen National Wildlife Area has been designated ational heritage, to give them national recognition, and to encourage as a Wetland of International Importance; proposed as a Western the public to enjoy and appreciate them. Today, there are 41 Canadian Hemispheric Shorebird Reserve Network, an international initiative that Heritage Rivers. identifies and protects habitats used by migrating shorebirds. EP 120911 - 35 - 12
1.2 GOALS
There are four goals that guide the realization of the Experience the Fraser vision:
Goal 1 Connect Hope to the Salish Sea
Experience the Fraser will connect Hope to the Salish Sea along the Fraser River by means of a network of over 550 kilometres of trail, 43% of which is already in place along regional, municipal and community trails. In addition, the river itself and associated stream networks provides an incredible recreational opportunity and adds a Blueway component to this goal of connectivity. The Trail and Blueway networks are the backbone of the project and will connect communities, parks, natural areas, historic and cultural sites and other experiences along the river. The intent of the goal is to draw upon the rich natural and cultural heritage along the river, to better integrate the waterway into the lives of residents and visitors thereby fostering a stronger sense of place and stewardship. The Trail and Blueway networks will provide a wide variety of recreational opportunities that promote active, healthy living for Lower Fraser River residents. Also, this network will enhance land and water-based recreational amenities positioned strategically to fill service gaps and support tourism.
Lower Hatzic Slough and Lake Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 36 - 13
Goal 2 Link and inspire experiences along the river
There are already a multitude of existing opportunities to experience the Fraser River. For example, there are Circle Farm tours, farm gate sales, and wineries. From an outdoor recreation and environmental perspective, there are parks and trails that provide river access, and amazing fishing spots and that interpret the river’s ecological importance to salmon, raptors, and bird migrations. Heritage and culture can be explored at the Xa:ytem Longhouse Interpretive Centre, Fraser River Discovery Centre, Britannia Shipyards, Fort Langley and Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Sites, Hyack’s Fraserfest, the Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival and the Artists on the River, all of which provide opportunities to celebrate the river’s heritage and cultural values.
The first part of this goal speaks to linking these experiences, to knitting them together with a common Experience the Fraser brand and to recognizing the appeal and promotional value in their synergy. ETF offers a way to build on and package these experiences and opportunities. The second part of the goal is about enhancing and adding to what is already in place – about utilizing the Trail and existing experiences and amenities as a catalyst upon which to build an integrated suite of recreation, cultural and heritage amenities and features. The outcome will be a world-class tourism destination that can be traveled end to end or theme by theme. The Lower Fraser River Corridor will be promoted and known as one of the great river destinations of the world, inspiring participation, generating economic growth and jobs, and fostering pride and sustainability.
EP 120911 - 37 - 14
Goal 3 Develop enduring and committed partnerships
The success of ETF is reliant on developing and nurturing long-term partnerships among different levels of government, First Nations, other agencies, the private sector, non-profit organizations and citizens. Because Experience the Fraser is a long-term vision that will be realized over a number of decades, building understanding and support helps ensure that the ETF concept is a shared vision and at the forefront of people’s minds when planning and developing local projects. Integral to the success of the project is the development of sustainable governance and financing models to support leadership and long-term implementation.
Bedford Channel
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 38 - 15
Goal 4 Build and deepen connections to the river
Experience the Fraser strives to build and deepen people’s physical, emotional, and spiritual connections to the river. Utility and transportation corridors and industrial, residential and agricultural uses separate communities and people from the river so that its physical closeness is often imperceptible. We cross over the river in our cars on our daily commute, but how often do we dip our toes in it, walk along its edge or understand the diversity and dynamism that it represents? This goal is about celebrating the river itself and its rich cultural and natural heritage – it is about exposure and reconnection, not just in a physical sense, but also a cognitive one. Through exposure and experience come understanding and appreciation – and from these come a sense of ownership and protection4.
Connectivity is important from an ecological perspective, and linking parks and open space helps to protect habitat, remedy the effects of fragmentation and support biodiversity. ETF embraces environmental sustainability objectives critical to maintaining the ecological health of the Lower Fraser River Corridor, and is committed to enhancing awareness and stewardship of these values through education and interaction with river ecology.
4 Extrapolated from Freeman Tilden’s “through interpretation, understanding, through understanding, appreciation, through appreciation, protection” (1957)
Fish release at Kanaka Creek Regional Park
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1.3 PROJECT BACKGROUND
The Lower Fraser River Corridor has been the focus of attention and planning for many people, agencies, businesses, groups and partnerships for years. There is a substantial body of work, research and relationships to draw upon. ETF hopes to continue to build with these partners and on the work they have completed. In addition, ETF complements a number of existing initiatives associated with the Fraser River including the Fraser River Discovery Centre, the Trans Canada Trail, and Heart of the Fraser5. ETF seeks to highlight and link the multiple values and interests Fraser River stakeholders embody through a tangible, overarching vision for recreation, culture and heritage.
The inspiration of ETF was the idea for a continuous trail along the Fraser River between Hope and the Salish Sea on both sides of the river with crossings creating a series of loop options and connections to major trails beyond the region. Because of this original idea, ETF is a project that is rooted in an outdoor recreation perspective - assuming that the user will be on foot, bicycle, horseback or boating. Therefore, the next step was to look at what kind of support, both infrastructure and program, would be required to facilitate this form of experience in terms of staging areas, parking, washrooms, boat launches, camping opportunities, and dyke and trail upgrades.
The challenge was posed – if a user is travelling along this trail, what would they be interested in seeing, doing, and experiencing along the journey? What would lead them to take the journey in the first place and inspire them to explore further? This prompted an inventory of existing recreational, cultural and heritage features, the result being the development of a multi-dimensional project that seeks to link together, via the ETF Trail and recreational Blueway, the multitude of experiences the Lower Fraser River Corridor has to offer.
5 In 2009, The Fraser River Discovery Centre opened its doors to a 17,000 square foot space that offers displays and exhibits, a resource centre and a place showcase the living, working river. The Trans Canada Trail’s route through the Lower Fraser River Corridor mutually supports ETF. Heart of the Fraser is a conservation initiative founded in 2006, supported by The Nature Trust of BC, BCIT, the North Growth Foundation and the Pacific Fisheries Resource Conservation Council. It is focused on acquiring lands along the Fraser River, from Hope to Mission, and it seeks to boost public awareness of this area’s outstanding attributes while promoting the need to set aside key properties Cheam Ridge Regional Trail for conservation purposes. Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 40 - 17
In April 2009, the Province of BC provided the Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD) and Metro Vancouver (MV) $2.5 million dollars to undertake ETF planning and to implement two demonstration projects. $2 million was allocated toward developing a comprehensive Concept Plan by Fall 2011.
An integral component then was to “demonstrate” the potential of Experience the Fraser in communities along the river and to provide an opportunity for people to understand what an “experience’ of the Fraser might in fact be. As a result, $500,000 was allocated for two demonstration projects to ‘get started on the ground’.
Demonstration Projects
Mission Waterfront Historic Fort Langley to Golden The Mission Waterfront Demonstration Project, a Ears Bridge partnership between FVRD and the District of Mission, The Historic Fort Langley to Golden Ears Bridge opened on May 15, 2010. It includes an elevated square, Demonstration Trail Project, a partnership between Metro trail, living plant wall, benches, picnic tables, banners, Vancouver, Township of Langley, and Trails BC, provides an lights, and unique First Nations’ public art. important segment of the Trans Canada Trail. The first project phase, from Edgewater Bar in Derby Reach Regional Park to 208th Street including trail, interpretive art and riverside amenities, opened on July 23, 2011.
EP 120911 - 41 - 18 “The goal is to have a trail network connecting from Hope right to the ocean. It will provide endless opportunities – and you can take whatever length of trip you want.”
Gayle Martin, Co-Chair, ETF Joint Political Steering Committee
1.4 CONNECTED NETWORKS… Situating Experience the Fraser
One of the primary objectives for trail routing is to fill Pemberton the gaps in the existing trail network along the Lower Lytton Fraser River Corridor between Hope and the Salish Sea. Merritt Embodied within this objective is the desire to ensure Whistler connectivity to, and integration with, existing and planned
Sea to Sky Trail community trail networks and waterfront community Powell River Kettle Valley Rail Trail centres with an aim to improving access to the Fraser River 99 1 New Pathways to Gold and connections among communities and trails. Squamish
5 While these local and regional connections are vital, so is ensuring connectivity to trail systems outside the Lower Sechelt Princeton Fraser Corridor to help build a provincial trail network Trans Canada Trail Kent Hope for residents and visitors alike. Integral to the planning Parksville Vancouver 3 and development of the Experience the Fraser route is Mission Chilliwack the integration and inclusion of the Trans Canada Trail Nanaimo Surrey 99 White Rock 1 Trans Canada Trail 1 Abbotsford as it proceeds through the Lower Fraser River Corridor and connects with the rest of Canada from sea to sea.
Coast Millennium Trail (US) Looking beyond our national border, ETF seeks to make Duncan Lochside connections south to the United States. Therefore, once Galloping Goose & Sidney completed and connections are put in place, Experience Cowichan Valley Trails the Fraser will provide not only an inter-regional trail
Figure 2: Connected Networks: Situating Experience the Fraser between Hope and the Salish Sea, but it will also link to other regional, provincial, national and international trails, effectively nesting it withinother initiatives and providing connectivity at multiple levels (Figure 2). Once complete, Experience the Fraser aspires to connect to:
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 42 - 19
Agassiz-Rosedale Bridge
International National Regional
• Pacific Northwest Trail: The 1,200 mile trail runs • Trans Canada Trail: A mosaic of local and • Sea-to-Sky Trail: A partnership initiative led from the Continental Divide to the Pacific Ocean regional trails built by provincial and territorial by the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, and is considered to be among the most scenic members of the Canadian Trails Foundation the Sea-to-Sky Trail links communities from trails in the world. It is connected to the Pacific extending from Atlantic to the Pacific to the Horseshoe Bay north to Lillooet. Crest and Coast Millennium trails. Arctic Oceans and providing 22,000 kilometres • New Pathways to Gold Society: A society of trail linking 1,000 communities and 33 million • Pacific Crest Trail (PCT): Extending from the that supports economic development through Canadians. Canadian to the Mexican border, the PCT heritage tourism, First Nations Reconciliation, boasts the greatest elevation changes of • National Hiking Trail: An initiative for a and community projects such as the Hudson's any of America's National Scenic Trails and pedestrian trail from Cape Spear, Newfoundland Bay Company (1849) Heritage Trail. The trail passes through six of North America's seven to White Rock, British Columbia. extends from Barkerville to Hope area and eco-zones. It offers users a unique, varied through the Gold Rush region of BC. experience and connects into Canada at • Spirit of 2010 Trails: Four regional Rail to Trail Manning Provincial Park. initiatives that make up a portion of the Trans • Coast Millennium Trail: A trail initiative that Canada Trail connecting Hope to Nelson strives to connect Bellingham, Washington to including: The Hudson’s Bay Company Heritage White Rock along Boundary Bay with future Trail from Hope to Tulameen and the Kettle phases envisioned to extend the trail south to Valley Rail Trail from Hope to Castelgar. Seattle, and north to Vancouver connecting to • Vancouver Island Trails: The Lochside Regional other regional trails including Experience the Trail begins at the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal Fraser. and connects to the Galloping Goose Regional Trail north to the Nanaimo Regional District where the Trans Canada Trail currently arrives on Vancouver Island at the Nanaimo Ferry Terminal. EP 120911 - 43 - 20
Mountain to Sound Greenway - Hikers in the Cascade Mountains
1.5 LEARNING and DRAWING INSPIRATION from OTHER SUCCESSES
There are a number of projects analogous to Experience Mountains to Sound the Fraser throughout North America. This is no surprise, as waterfront cities recognize the merit of collecting The Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust leads and inspires and showcasing their amazing amenities and features action to conserve and enhance the landscape from Seattle into a synergized, value added package. Several of across the Cascade Mountains to Central Washington, these projects bill themselves as recreational, cultural ensuring a long-term balance between people and nature. and heritage initiatives that act as catalysts for tourism, This project is organized around Highway I-90, and since economic development, active, healthy living, and 1991, 87,000 hectares of land have been conserved and partnership development. Below are three examples of over $275 million invested. Today, the Greenway Trust, visionary, successful projects. the body responsible for the project, encompasses a 60-member Board of Directors, a 30-member Advisory Council, a 100-member Technical Advisory Committee, a 15-member staff, and a community of hundreds of citizens and dozens of interest groups.
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 44 - 21
The Great Waterfront Trail Adventure Originally part of Route 66, The Chain of Rocks Bridge is now one of the longest pedestrian/ cyclist bridges in the world
Waterfront Trail The Confluence
The Waterfront Trail stretches from Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario Located in the heart of the St. Louis Region at the confluence of to the Quebec border, along the shores of Lake Ontario and the St. the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, the Confluence is a dynamic Lawrence River. The Trail includes 41 communities, 182 parks, 152 conservation, heritage and recreation corridor. The project area is arts and culture heritage attractions and 37 major annual waterfront 52,000 hectares. The Confluence Project is an ambitious, long- festivals. 780 km of trail have been built and/or designated. The term undertaking where investments in land conservation, facilities project is run by the Waterfront Regeneration Trust, and partners and public programs for this unique regional initiative will ultimately with CIBC, Heart and Stroke Foundation, Province of Ontario, exceed $200 million. Today, the Confluence is an evolving system Ontario Trillium Foundation, Welcome Cyclists, Ontario Trails of conserved open space, parks, museums, heritage sites, and Council, 63 local governments and Conservation Authorities, two recreational trails along the Great Rivers of the bi-state St. Louis cycling groups and three other private sector companies. area. By reconnecting the public to the wealth of natural, historic and recreational resources at the heart of the community, this project contributes significantly to quality of life and economic competitiveness in the 21st century. Currently, over $150 million has been secured or committed by various governmental agencies and non-profit organizations, and the transformation of riverfronts is well underway. An impressive set of early achievements encourages community residents and tourists to care and protect the land and water in the Confluence region as they reconnect to two of America’s great rivers.
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1.6 THEMES
Concept planning and trail route identification included an inventory Agriculture of existing Fraser River amenities, features and experiences. As this Farms, wineries, local food, farmers’ markets, agri-tourism, parks, museums, work progressed, it became apparent that these points of interest education and interpretation could be grouped or categorized into themes. Consequently, part of the trail routing resulted from the gathering or linking of these Celebration features, points of interest and amenities. Many plan contributors and participants have identified locations where these themes can be Festivals, celebration, tours and events that promote and advance river explored, illustrated, and experienced. This has led to the Concept connections, Fraser River Festival, arts and cultural events, Rivers Day, educational Plan being more infrastructure or spatially based, focusing on & historical tours acknowledging the venues where these themes can be experienced rather than interpreting the themes themselves. The project’s focus Environment and Nature is the Trail and Blueway and providing a way to link or package the Parks, Conservation Areas and Ecological Reserves, stewardship and volunteer experiences together. As a result, the project is informed by the opportunities, salmon runs, education and interpretation, bird and wildlife habitat, following eight Fraser River themes: marshes and mudflats
First Nations Cultural and historical interpretation, industry and commerce, tourism and economic development opportunities, festivals and community celebrations
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Heritage and Culture In addition, the themes provide a framework for others (e.g. the private sector or other potential partners) who want to: Historic sites, museums, cultural centres, guided heritage tours, landscapes, festivals, settlements, businesses a) package and program these points of interest and utilize the trail as a means of travel or connection (e.g. a tourism opportunity Industry and Transportation such as winery or heritage tours by bike or foot); or The role and importance of the “working river”, fisheries, log booms, tug b) add a new experience / amenity along the river that ‘fits’ boats, debris trap, water dependent industry, port & rail operations, access & with one of the themes therefore creating an added value for crossings, infrastructure and new technologies themselves of having other similarly themed experiences be Outdoor Recreation in close proximity with them connected by the trail (e.g. an economic development opportunity such as bicycle or boat Parks, trails, water access and boat launches, camping, fishing, day-use rentals or a trail-side café). facilities, wildlife viewing, marinas
Riverfront Communities Connecting to and integrating with the river, trail and blueway connections, river access, orientation and wayfinding, education and interpretation, food and accommodation services, business development and sales, waterfront revitalization initiatives
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1.7 A STORIED RIVER… stories of people and place unfolding
The myriad of stories related to the Fraser River are as plentiful and intertwined as the tributaries which flow into it. Experience the Fraser recognizes the importance of these stories in enhancing the recreational and cultural experiences of each visitor. Certain stories lend themselves to being told through multiple venues over the length of the Lower Fraser River Corridor. A sampling of five of these stories is presented here. These stories would be developed and programmed by historians, First Nation elders and other willing story-tellers. They hint at the incredible influence the river had, and continues to have, on our lives and the connections that flow strongly among stories, people and places.
The Story of the Living River... • The future of the living river is another critical storyline from Salmon to Sandpiper for interpretation. Humans have put pressures on the river system, and changed it from its natural course. This journey highlights the story of the Fraser River’s natural Much of the Fraser Valley is naturally a floodplain, but history and paints an ecological picture of one of the most is now protected by dykes which prevent the river from biodiverse areas in Canada. inundating the land and people have influenced the life of the Fraser, just as the river has permeated our lives; • The Fraser produces more salmon than any other river system in the world; • The formation of the wetlands and bogs of the Lower Fraser (e.g. Burns Bog); • The Fraser is one of just three rivers in British Columbia in which the white sturgeon spawn; • Augment the work currently being done to tell the Living River story by enhancing this work through coordinating • The Fraser River Estuary is one Canada’s premier resources and introducing new outlets. Important Bird Areas providing a crucial staging area on the Pacific Flyway; The Living River stories could be presented through a Living River Tour supported with a smartphone interpretive • The dynamic river conditions of the Fraser from the guidebook application. canyon to the coast;
Interpret … and understand the river hydraulics and the evolution of the river course, the geology and the forces which have shaped this iconic land- scape and delta over millennia.
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The Story of the Working River... • Agriculture and floodplain; and from Canneries to Catch and Release • Port activities (cargo terminals and goods movement). This journey presents storylines that relate to the commerce of the Fraser River over time from First Nations fur trading The Working River storyline could be enhanced through through the harvesting of a variety of natural resources to a focus on the Fraser River Discovery Centre for major the present river-based economy and industry. Working River interpretive exhibits6. Ideas for supporting • Fishing industry (sustenance, commercial and the telling of the story could include interactive historical recreational); activities about fishing, farming, milling, and towing, an important and particularly representative industry on the • Salmon fishing through the ages (Aboriginal to present Lower Fraser. day; salting and canning);
• Forestry (sawmills, shingle mills, log booming); 6 t here are other venues where these stories could be explored and told including: the Fort Langley and Gulf of Georgia Cannery National His- • Mining and gravel extraction; toric Sites and Britannia Shipyards. In addition, this is only one of many stories interpreted at the Fraser River Discovery Centre.
Growing up near the river, I remember the mayhem & activity of the eulachon run every June. The eulachon were easy to catch, but not that good to eat.
Ideas Forum Participant (October 28, 2010)
A wealth of resources ... learn about the working river and the importance of the Lower Fraser as a place of industry and commerce and a source of economic prosperity in BC.
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The Story of Travel on the River... Travel on the River stories could be told through: from Cedar Canoes to Tug Boats • River education and interpretation centres (i.e. Mission This journey would tell the story of the Fraser River as the Harbour River Interpretation Centre); historical main transportation conduit from the coast to the • Bridge and crossing signage and interpretation program; interior of BC. • A land based “shipyard” museum and playground. • Historical accounts of different British Columbians’ journeys up and down the Fraser through time (Aboriginal, Simon Fraser, present day explorers); The Story of Communities on the River... from Village to Settlement to City • Railways; This journey would tell the stories of the many communities • Bridges and Crossings of the Fraser; that were and are established along the riverfront, how they came to be, and the cultural landscapes that emerged. • Boats of the Fraser across time: First Nations canoes, steamboats, paddle wheelers, barges, tug boats, fishing • First Nations villages and settlements; boats, present day kayaks; • European settlement – Fur trading (HBC), resource based • Role in supporting the region – goods and services and communities, dyking, flooding and the development of movement; agriculture based communities, historic river landings;
• Recreational Blueway. • Stories of ethnically rich communities along the river
Transport … see the barges, fishing boats and con- tainer ships and become connected to this water- way and its importance in our society as a lifeline and transportation corridor.
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(e.g. Hawaiian community at Kanaka Creek, Japanese • 1948 flood led to evacuation of 16,000 people, damage community on Don Island, Chinese community on Lion or destruction of 2300 homes, and recovery costs of over Island, Greek community on Deas Island); $150 million;
• The stories of real people of the river – First Nations, • Early efforts to manage flooding and develop agricultural immigrants and migrants, entrepreneurs and lands along the lower reaches; homesteaders. • Sumas Lake (4,050 hectares in size) was drained to Communities of the River stories could be told through: create farmland;
• A Geo-caching and Passport program telling the stories • Scope and scale of the dyking system in the Lower of various journeys and travel routes (i.e. gold, fur, fish, Fraser River Corridor – now over 600 km of dyke trading, First Nation, pioneer). structures, 400 floodboxes and 100 pump stations in the Fraser Basin;
The Story of the Fraser River Dykes… • Future concerns given climate change and sea level rise. from Floods to Fortification Given that the dyke system forms a significant part of the This journey would tell the unique story of how the Fraser trail itself, the Fraser River Dyke story could be told through River was dyked to manage its seasonal floods, develop interpretive signage, viewpoints, photos of the major floods rich agricultural lands from the floodplain, and protect large and other means. These stories could also be told at the parts of the region’s infrastructure and population. Fraser River Discovery Centre amongst other locations.
• May, 1894, largest flood on record, but property damage was limited as settlement was sparse;
Connect...to the 10,000 years of A place to call home … how did stories of the river and of this our present day communities come place and the people who have to be? From Forts and Furs to lived, traded, fished, explored Fields and Farming, learn about and adventured on and around the importance of the river as the its waters. home for generations of families.
EP 120911 - 51 - 28 The Fraser River and Mount Ludwig
2.0 EXPERIENCE THE FRASER: THE CONCEPT
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Traveling on, or along, the lower Fraser, starting from the town of Hope and heading downstream to the sea, enables one to experience the very heart of one of the world's great waterways; one of the most productive stretches of river on Earth.
Mark Angelo, Chair Emeritus, Rivers Institute at BCIT
2.1 THE CONCEPT
The Experience the Fraser Concept is, at its heart, quite simple - it is a recreational, cultural and heritage project that seeks to connect Hope to the Salish Sea along the Fraser River and to link and inspire river and other theme-based experiences. The Trail and recreational Blueway serve as the connectors, linking communities, the multitude of stories, river-based amenities, and the natural, recreational, cultural and heritage features and experiences that the Lower Fraser River Corridor offers.
The Experience the Fraser Concept builds from a strong base of existing infrastructure, amenities, features and Fraser River attractions. About 43% of the proposed Trail is already in place along segments provided by regional districts, municipalities and others. There are 15 sanctioned boat launches along this stretch of the river and many riverfront parks that provide water access and amenities. There are a number of cultural and heritage attractions and festivals for residents and visitors alike and several businesses that rent bicycles, boats and offer tours. Experience the Fraser is not starting from scratch. ETF simply seeks to fill the connectivity gaps and add to the experiences available.
The result will be a project that ties together, and adds strength and dynamism to, local tourism and economic development efforts as well as cultural, heritage, and recreational amenities. All of which will be branded under one banner. ETF will become an anchor enticing other tourism opportunities. The Lower Fraser River Corridor will be showcased and promoted as one of the world’s great river destinations. People will be inspired to respect and protect its value. It is important to recognize that the Concept is a long-term vision and will be implemented by many, over decades.
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Figure 3: Experience the Fraser: Concept Plan Map
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The Concept is structured around five elements: portals, A Planning Atlas and complementary Opportunities Matrix nodes, the Trail, the Blueway, and amenity and feature serve as the repository for ETF’s collected knowledge. points based on the eight Fraser River themes introduced The Planning Atlas is the tool that allows navigation of the above (Figure 3: Experience the Fraser Concept Plan Map). Concept at different scales, showing the Project from the This structure highlights and facilitates connectivity among Lower Fraser River Corridor scale, to specific river reaches, communities, features, amenities and ultimately, Fraser to community nodes, right down to a specific segment River experiences. It also highlights connections to, and of trail, amenity or feature (Figure 4). Although this level overlap with, the Trans Canada Trail, and expresses a desire of specificity cannot be shown here, the Planning Atlas is to expand the Project Area to include the North Arm of the essential for providing detailed planning information as the Fraser River in the future. project moves forward to implementation.
In addition, Sumas Mountain is identified as an Interregional Figure 4: ETF Planning Atlas Project on the Concept Plan Map. Sumas Mountain is a dominant and unique landscape feature in the Fraser Valley that captures the appreciation and imagination of many. It holds special significance to First Nations, is popular with trail users and has high conservation values. The mountain also straddles regional park service areas of the Fraser Valley Regional District and Metro Vancouver, creating a unique opportunity for collaboration to advance outdoor recreation, cultural and conservation objectives supporting ETF goals, for the two regional districts and other partners.
“Experience the Fraser will become a catalyst for vibrant communities along the Fraser through offering opportunities for active living. It will also become a catalyst for economic development and community development.”
James Atebe, Co-Chair, ETF Joint Political Steering Committee
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2.2 ELEMENTS
The ETF Concept is spatially based around locations where the stories about the Fraser River, its history, industry, culture and environment can be told. As a result, there are five concept elements – “Canyon to Coast” Trail, recreational blueway, amenity and feature points, nodes and portals.
‘Canyon to Coast’ Trail
The “Canyon to Coast” Trail is the backbone of the project, linking together communities and points of interest along the river. Once complete, it will provide the glue, brand, and impetus enticing others to build on Experience the Fraser by adding additional businesses, recreational features and other points of interest. Over 550 kilometres of trail are a part of the project, spanning from Hope to the Salish Sea on both sides of the river.
Many participants in the planning process articulated that the Trail needs a brand that expresses the geography, themes or intent of the project more clearly than the Experience the Fraser Trail. The “Canyon to Coast” Trail seems to excite and resonate, since it clearly references the geography of the Lower Fraser River Corridor and begins to connect people to place.
In the short term, an Interim Route utilizes existing trails and roads and allows users to travel from end to end or portal to portal. This alignment is subject to agreement and participation by the agencies, organizations, and local governments along the route. There is also a Vision Route, which is the long- term objective of the project and is over 550 kilometres long. Although this length may sound daunting, 43% of the Vision Route is already in place coinciding with regional and municipal park and community trails. The Vision Route will be implemented over many years.
The primary objective when developing the Vision Route was to develop a continuous east /west connection from Hope to the Salish Sea. The intent was to follow and feature the Fraser River as closely as possible: however, the long-term route will be aligned to harmonize with working river industrial activities, sensitive natural features, private land and First Nation land interests. Most times it will mean going around these features, but creative ways of integrating the Trail into such landscapes and uses can produce the richest experiences. The preferred alignment also reflects the original partnership between the Province, the Fraser Valley Regional District and Metro Vancouver, therefore reflecting the desire to connect provincial and regional parks and facilities and to include sufficient amenities to facilitate multi- day travel (e.g. camping). It was also an objective to advance the Trans Canada Trail alignment through the Lower Fraser River Corridor.
EP 120911 - 57 - 34 The Trail’s Vision Route status and needs in the eastern The non-motorized ETF Trail is intended to be shared- (Fraser Valley Regional District) and western (Metro use and accommodate pedestrians and cyclists along its Vancouver) parts of the Project Area are somewhat entire length. Equestrian and other active transportation different. In the eastern part of the Project Area, the Vision modes will be possible in some locations. ETF advocates Route is 244 kilometres long and 27% (or 66 kilometres) for the provision of universally accessible trails and is in place. In the western part of the Project Area, the facilities wherever feasible, however recognizes that Vision Route is 308 kilometres long, and approximately different standards and challenging geography will limit this 55% (or 173 kilometres) is in place. Of the remaining objective. As time, resources, land tenure and priorities 313 kilometres required to complete the ETF Trail’s Vision permit, the gaps in the Vision Route will be filled. Route, approximately 79 kilometres are located on dyke Bridges across the Fraser River are key components of the structures, which require recreational access but do not ETF trail network (Figure 5). Designed to function almost have the same cost implications as a new trail. Therefore, exclusively as vehicle conveyances, sometimes with a about 234 kilometres of trail need to be built to fully realize nod to commuter cyclists, bridges are too often a lost the Vision Route. opportunity. ETF advocates that bridges must provide safe Because the Trail is the linear connection linking points of and viable recreational connections for active transportation interest along the river, it facilitates the telling of stories modes to communities, parks and trails on both sides introduced in section 1.7 and other projects that lend of the river. Where appropriate, bridges should also themselves to being explored or introduced from end to function as features providing viewpoints, educational and end of the trail – for example, public art expressing Fraser interpretive opportunities, public art and signage. River themes. FIGURE 5: Bridges along the Lower Fraser River
EP 120911 - 58 - 35 Recreational Blueway Amenity and Feature Points
The Blueway, or Water Trail, represents the recreational As part of the concept planning process, over 300 use of the river itself. In the Project Area, this includes Amenity and Feature Points were identified as locations the Fraser, Harrison and Lower Pitt Rivers and their main to experience the river. These points are all part of the tributaries. Whether meandering through a number of ETF concept and represent discrete ‘projects’ that are Fraser River Islands for the day or taking part in a multi- either infrastructure (e.g. facilities or amenities), program- day paddling adventure, the Blueway is best expressed based (e.g. education or interpretive activities or events) through the supporting infrastructure that facilitates water or system-wide opportunities (to be applied across the access and Blueway use such as launching sites, signage, entire Project Area). One way of better understanding day use facilities, piers, view points and camping. It is this the diversity of amenity and feature points and what they supporting infrastructure that is shown on the Concept consist of is by reflecting on the demonstration projects. Plan Map. The river connects the portals, the nodes and Each of these is part of the ETF Concept, and is a distinct numerous water-based experiences. The Blueway links point opportunity that helps create and solidify the ETF communities along the river and complements the coastal identity. based BC Marine Trail Network. There are numerous existing amenities and features along To accommodate multi-day journeys, there needs to be the river, and for those that are not yet in place, many are supporting infrastructure appropriately spaced along the already planned as part of municipal Official Community river including water access, day-use facilities and camping Plans or park and trail plans, ensuring that ETF is well or fixed accommodation. Whether kayaking the islands integrated with other agencies’ existing plans. Other of the Fraser delta for the day, taking a water taxi to cross ‘points’ were contributed at community forums and other from the north to the south shore, or setting out on a multi- events. day journey tracing a historical storyline, the possibilities The Planning Atlas captures all of the Amenity and Feature are endless. Points identified as well as both Interim and Vision Trail alignments. Within this tool, a set of evaluation criteria based on the ETF’s objectives and eight themes were used to test the fit with the project and readiness for implementation. This filtered set of opportunities, including Trails and Blueways, signage, and other highly ranked elements were consolidated to assist in the development of an Illustrative Foundational Program (Section 2.3).
“Visitors using these water trails can navigate from one coastal community to another, taking advantage of the amenities … learn about local history … experience the flora, fauna, and the coastal eco-system … each community may offer.”
B.C. Marine Trails Network EP 120911 - 59 - “My favourite memories of the lower Fraser are the family outings on the River and marshes in the 36 Port Guichon area where I have lived almost all of my life. Over the years, I have enjoyed nature walks, birthday parties, beach parties, barbecues, bird hunting and commercial fishing in my “backyard”.
- ETF Ideas Forum Participant (October 28, 2010)
Nodes
Nodes are destinations along the Trail and Blueway or locations where people can come to the project to ‘experience the Fraser’ without having to travel the Trail. They are characterized as having a cluster of amenities, features and experiences close together, are in a location where there is an existing or planned population density or community, are intersecting with the trail, and are providing an access point and amenities for the blueway. There are 26 nodes envisioned between Hope and the Salish Sea, some of which exist, and others that are planned in municipal Official Community Plans or as an integral part of ETF. They are intended to motivate and facilitate engagement with the Fraser River and will have a kiosk to act as a point of introduction, information and orientation to the Trail. Travelling downstream, these envisioned nodes are:
A. Hope B. Seabird Island Hope is one of British Columbia’s oldest Seabird Island is located along the north settlements. Before the municipality was shore of the Fraser River in the upper Fraser established, the Stó:lō tribal village of Ts’qo:ls Valley, three kilometres northeast of the town existed along the banks of the Fraser River. of Agassiz and home to the Seabird Island When visiting the local museum visitors can Indian Band. This storied island derived its learn about explorer Simon Fraser’s arrival name from the June 1858 grounding of the in 1808 and the establishment of Fort Hope transport paddle-wheeler ‘Sea Bird’. This trading post by the Hudson’s Bay Company destination could offer visitors authentic cultural forty years later. This destination also offers and heritage tourism experiences, and already the opportunity for First Nations to share their has as the annual Tulips of the Valley Festival culture and heritage with visitors. Today four and First Nation Festival. If the breathtaking major highways converge at Hope, enabling it backdrop does not give a true appreciation to serve as a gateway to rest of the province. for the ecological importance of the area, then Combined with stunning geography, this hub Maria Slough which surrounds the Island will provides a key stop for visitors to experience an certainly do so. It is known for its ecological abundance of recreational adventures from the importance for amphibians, fish, birds, and Fraser River up to the peaks of the surrounding several species at risk. mountains.
Totem Pole, Hope Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 60 - C. Harrison Hot Springs traditional territory and is a place where culture, 37 Nestled against magnificent mountains and heritage, and the environment meld together the sandy beaches of Harrison Lake, Harrison into a truly powerful experience. Sts’ailes is Hot Springs is a destination filled with history actively promoting tourism initiatives through and natural wonders. Although the hot springs the Sasquatch Eco-Crossing Lodge, Sts'ailes were not discovered until the Cariboo Gold Lhawathet Lalem (Chehalis Healing House), Rush in the late 1850s, the village appeared on Heritage Trail, and, in the future, Sp'óq'es maps several years earlier. Harrison Lake is (Bald Eagle) Café, which could become the accessible for boaters via several launches and country’s first major bald eagle orientated offers year oundr wildlife viewing with common educational-tourist venture. This area is also sightings of eagles, herons, salmon, and seals. proposed by the Province to become a Wildlife The natural beauty of Harrison Hot Springs is Management Area since the areas river and brought to life with several annual events and delta habitat support important staging and celebrations. This node provides a treat for wintering habitat for bald eagles and trumpeter visitors looking to relax and rejuvenate. swans and significant spawning habitat for salmon and white sturgeon. This area is referred D. Rosedale / Popkum to as a “Salmon Stronghold” since all species Located amidst Chilliwack’s agricultural lands, of salmon return here. With chartered tours Rosedale presents future opportunities to down the Harrison River Blueway visitors can experience the area’s plentiful agricultural fully immerse themselves in this node’s historic operations and offerings along the dyke system. features, abundant scenery, wildlife, and other Nestled under Mount Cheam, the breathtaking natural features. Coastal Mountains offer awe-inspiring scenery. Underneath the Agassiz–Rosedale Bridge is F. Harrison Mills Ferry Island Provincial Park which is used for Located at the confluence of the Harrison and day fishing and as a boat launch. Rosedale is Fraser Rivers, the only reminder of the once also a place to tell stories of the past related thriving community of Harrison Mills is the to industry and transportation. Many of the Kilby Historic Site, which provides visitors with earliest mill development took place here and a realistic glimpse into early twentieth century before the bridge existed, travel crossing the pioneer history. Also tucked away in this rural river was done by boat and ferry. pastoral setting is Kilby Provincial Park which offers beaching and boating on the Harrison E. Sts’ailes-Chehalis River and easy access to the Fraser and The Chehalis River delta is known for its Harrison Lake. With Canadian Pacific Railway’s natural beauty and serves as a prominent main transcontinental line passing right by, environmental feature along the Harrison this is a place to tell the rural lifestyle story of River Blueway. This node is embedded in the industry and transportation. Sts'ailes Band (formerly Chehalis Indian Band)
Harrison Mills EP 120911 - 61 - 38 G. Chilliwack Waterfront Fraser Valley community also boasts a thriving Chilliwack Landing was first settled in the cultural scene and numerous recreational 1850’s and consisted of a Paddle Wheeler activities. Mission’s waterfront is undergoing dock, hotel and service buildings. As there redevelopment and is already a key destination was limited space in this location, the town of for year-round fishing and experiencing the Chilliwack was established ‘Five Corners’. This ‘Mighty Fraser’ during freshet at the Mission node presents an opportunity to reconnect the Demonstration Project. In the future visitors will community with the Fraser River and to bring be able to walk and cycle the entire foreshore as together First Nations’ culture and history, early the dyke trail is developed. settlement, and outdoor recreation. Today, Chilliwack offers a variety of tourist attractions, J. Matsqui world-class sports fishing, white water river Matsqui is a small historic village located on rafting, beautiful lakes, hiking and biking trails, Matsqui Prairie slightly south of the Fraser River. and great festivals. Adjacent to the node is Enjoy a stroll on the main street, pick some a regional park that has the potential to be a local blueberries at several surrounding farms, flagship in the region. or head towards Matsqui Trail Regional Park for a walk along the bank of the Fraser River. With H. Barrowtown the eastern end of Matsqui Trail Regional Park Tucked beside Sumas Mountain, Barrowtown abutting Sumas Mountain, a future connection offers a lush array of environmental to this magnificent egionalr park with surroundings and outdoor experiences (Bert sweeping vistas of the surrounding flat lands is Brink Wildlife Management Area, eastside of foreseeable. The Mission Bridge was recently Sumas Mountain Regional Park, Barrowtown enhanced to improve pedestrian/cyclist access Pump Station Staging Area, and Sumas making connections to the Mission Waterfront River Dyke Trail). When connected by way node on the other side of the river an easy, safe of spanning the Sumas River, visitors will be ride or walk. able to explore the Fraser River’s floodplain all the way up to the peak of Sumas Mountain. K. Stave Barrowtown is a location that could also show Located in a forested setting, Stave is a how best to integrate railways and crossings in recreational paradise that is complimented close proximity to the river. by a rich industrial past. At the Stave Falls Powerhouse visitors can experience a historic I. Mission Waterfront perspective on hydroelectric power and in the Coastal mountains, sprawling farmland, and surrounding mountains they can touch the huge the imposing Fraser River give Mission instant cedar stumps that drew sawmilling and cedar visual appeal. Yet beyond the visual, this rural shingle interests. Today and continuing into
Surrey Bend Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 62 - the future this area will grow as a recreational the Golden Ears and Pitt River Bridges. A 39 hub with Rolley Lake Provincial Park, Mission new community centre, river viewing piers, Interpretive Forest, and BC Hydro’s Stave Lake, and waterfront commons allow for direct Hayward Lake, and Ruskin recreational sites. connections to the river. There are many opportunities to learn and discover stories L. Fort Langley about the surrounding agricultural landscape, One of the best known heritage sites in the the log booms on the waterfront, the Katzie First Lower Fraser River Corridor, Fort Langley has Nation and long history of the Stó:lō people. many historic buildings, the Parks Canada Fort Langley National Historic Site, the BC Farm O. Surrey Bend Machinery & Agricultural Museum, the Fort The Surrey Bend node is anchored by Surrey Langley Heritage CN Station, and the Langley Bend Regional Park, a complex wetland home Centennial Museum. Brae Island Regional to a diversity of wildlife and one of the few Park is part of this node, offering connections remaining undyked floodplain areas on this to and from the river and Bedford Channel and stretch of the Fraser River. Visitors can wander Fort Camping offers sites and programming on through the park or hop on a ferry to Barnston the river. The eastern end of McMillan Island Island, a quiet agricultural community which is is home to the Kwantlen First Nation. The Fort home to fewer than 100 residents, the Katzie to Fort Trail connects to Fort Langley to Derby First Nation, and Metro Vancouver’s parkland. Reach Regional Park. P. Citadel Landing M. Port Haney Citadel Landing is situated along Port Port Haney is a heritage waterfront community, Coquitlam's riverfront and includes a waterfront historically important for its rail station and boardwalk, Peace Park and staging area. regular steamboat traffic as well as its brick Adjacent to this node is the confluence of the works and farming. The community hosts the Coquitlam, Pitt and Fraser rivers, the south Haney Farmers Market and Music on the Wharf Pitt River section of the Traboulay PoCo Trail, and residents enjoy Fraser River access at the Colony Farm Regional Park, and the Coquitlam historic Haney Wharf or along nature trails that River Wildlife Management Area. These weave through Kanaka Creek Regional Park to locations provide connections to the river the riverfront. and the area’s rich biodiversity. The Wildlife Management Area is home to one of the largest N. Bonson Great Blue Heron colonies in BC, and provides Bonson, a relatively new Fraser River habitat and feeding grounds for many other community, is located in Pitt Meadows in birds and animals. Colony Farm Regional Park close proximity to the Pitt Meadows Airport provides dyke trails, a community garden and and the Golden Ears Bridge. The community is the former site of the historic Essondale waterfront incorporates the Pitt River Greenway, psychiatric asylum and provincial demonstration a riverfront trail along the dyke connecting farm. The Kwikwetlem First Nation lands are Citadel Landing EP 120911 - 63 - 40 located on the Coquitlam River adjacent to the Fraser River where public access is currently regional park and the First Nation operates a limited. This is a key location for interpreting Colony Farm bike tour and rental business. different marine-dependent industrial uses and their reliance on the Fraser River. This Q. Coquitlam Waterfront node provides a venue for small events and Once the site of the largest sawmill in the British enjoyment of a waterfront park and beach Empire, the Coquitlam Waterfront node is areas. planned to become a town centre, mixing new residential, commercial and light industrial. This T. Queensborough Village at Fraser Mills will be oriented towards A quiet community developed on lands once the water, providing piers, a boardwalk and set aside for a military reserve, Queensborough other recreational activities. Industry that is initially provided cheap housing for mill and adjacent to the East and West could provide cannery workers, leading to a mix of ethnicities. for educational opportunities about solid waste Recent investment and revitalization of this management, sustainable energies and the community helped provide a new waterfront active industrial landscape. trail, boat landing and piers. This is a place to enjoy a stroll along the river, imagine what life R. New Westminster Quay would be like on a houseboat, and interpret the The City of New Westminster is an urban centre many bridges crossing the Fraser River and how with a strong connection, both historic and their placements have shaped the region. present, to the Fraser River. It is the oldest city in western Canada – and the original capital U. Sunbury of British Columbia. Queen Victoria named A future eco-industrial development, Sunbury, the city, thus it is also referred to as the ‘Royal located at the Zone ‘C’ Lands, is envisioned to City’. There is already an extensive waterfront include a public waterfront area with shops and trail system in place here, with interpretive restaurants to attract visitors. It will showcase signs that echo the themes and stories of the sustainability principles through building Fraser. There is also a public market, the Fraser design and operation as well as environmental River Discovery Centre, a historic downtown, stewardship, and will be a place to express a cultural and event presence and plans for and interpret the importance of industrial land further connections east to Sapperton Landing. preservation in our region. Sunbury is adjacent to the Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area. S. Brownsville Located amidst Surrey’s industrial lands, Brownsville presents the opportunity to expand waterfront programming and recreational opportunities and to increase connectivity to the
New Westminster Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 64 - V. Riverport Y. Tsawwassen 41 A recreation and entertainment hub, Riverport For the Tsawwassen people, the Fraser River is a place where visitors can catch a movie, is their lifeblood. They are a proud, seafaring play hockey, go for a swim or grab a pint Coast Salish people who have inhabited this with friends. Nestled between industrial and part of the river for thousands of years. The agricultural lands, visitors and residents can Tsawwassen First Nation completed a Land Use also enjoy the waterfront trail, launch a kayak at Plan in 2009, and is presently exploring a variety the dock, or pick up some fresh produce at the of sustainable developments on TFN lands, local farm market. including residential, agricultural, commercial and industrial projects. This node is surrounded W. Steveston by agricultural land and is strongly connected to The Steveston waterfront once lined by the Salish Sea. It borders on Roberts Bank and canneries and still home to Canada’s Sturgeon Banks, intertidal and marsh areas that largest commercial fishing harbour, is now a are critical habitat for migrating waterfowl. pedestrian-oriented mix of boardwalks, piers, park areas and homes. A bustling tourist Z. Ferry destination with bike rentals, whale watching The Ferry node includes the BC Ferries’ and plethora of cafés, restaurants and shops, Tsawwassen Terminal and its Causeway and is it charms visitors and residents with its historic an entrance to the Lower Fraser River Corridor. feel and offers cannery and shipyard tours. The Causeway itself has been used for many There are many celebrations and events years as an informal recreation site, and the including the Farmers and Artisans Market, the surrounding tidal marshes make it an important Tall Ships Festival and the Salmon Festival. place for many birds, including the Great Blue Heron, the Trumpeter and Tundra Swans, and X. Ladner the Western Sandpiper. Ladner, a historic fishing and farming village, has plenty to experience including farmers markets, shops, restaurants, and adjacent environmental and agricultural areas including the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary and South Arm Wildlife Management Area. A redevelopment strategy for the waterfront area is complete, with planned public access and amenity improvements. This is a key stop to or from the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal where visitors can learn about the area’s history, explore the marshlands or check into a Bed and Breakfast.
Steveston
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Portals
Portals are the entry points to Experience the East Portal Fraser. There are three portals envisioned that As you travel south down the Fraser Canyon or anchor the project and that serve as points of west from the interior of the province, all routes welcome: in Hope, New Westminster and at the converge at Hope. This corridor connects the Salish Sea. Portals are more than trailheads – Lower Mainland to the rest of the province and they are gateways to ETF where a number of therefore is a critical hub. At this eastern portal, amenities, features and experiences exist in close there are opportunities to partner with the District proximity. Each portal is characterized by an ETF of Hope, Chawathil First Nation, BC Parks and Pavilion, a place of information, interpretation and others. Chawathil First Nation’s Telte Yet campsite orientation, and of sufficient scale and presence and Xwelqamex (Greenwood Island) connect to to excite users and to introduce them into their the Fraser River. At these locations there is a first ETF experience. There is also a staging vision to create an authentic tourism interpretation area with amenities and services. Finally, portals destination. The District of Hope is surrounded by are places of connection to other regional and towering peaks, mature forests, and quality trails provincial trail systems: to the east, New Pathways waiting for visitors to explore. The municipality has to Gold Society and the 2010 Spirit Trails, and to several parks which allow for outdoor recreation the west, via BC Ferries, the Vancouver Island, the opportunities such as boat launching, fishing, Gulf Islands, and the Capital Regional District’s picnicking and birding. The Centennial Park in Lochside and Galloping Goose Trails. downtown Hope offers visitors one of the most easily accessible and best views of the Fraser River anywhere. In addition, this portal already has a thriving community network that will only be strengthened with ETF. This portal is envisioned to be a place of greeting and orienting visitors by way of wayfinding and interpretation features.
East Portal, Hope Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 66 - 43
Urban Portal West Portal The portal at the New Westminster Quay is The western portal is where the Fraser River flows an important ETF point of entry for the urban into the ocean, creating rich marsh and intertidal population of the Burrard Peninsula, Richmond habitat along Sturgeon and Roberts Banks. The and the North Shore. It is also a transit and trail Tsawwassen First Nation is located at the ocean’s hub with connections to SkyTrain, the BC Parkway edge - a growing community with a strong history and the Central Valley Greenway. The Fraser and dynamic future vision. The Corporation of River Discovery Centre facilitates this portal’s Delta and the community of Tsawwassen are function as a significant point of entry, introduction also located in close proximity to the western and orientation and is an exciting location to waterfront. This area is further enlivened by BC learn about the river’s history and present. The Ferries’ Tsawwassen Terminal and causeway, New Westminster waterfront is also home to a vibrant and busy transportation hub for the Hyack’s Fraserfest, Paddlewheeler Riverboat province and recreation amenity. The extensive Tours, the Quay marketplace, bicycle tours and Port Metro Vancouver and rail infrastructure at rentals, museums and theatre, and the waterfront Deltaport is a major terminal operation for Canada. boardwalk. Nearby there are numerous parks and community trails connecting to a myriad of historic, cultural, environmental and agricultural experiences. At the western portal, there are opportunities to partner with the Corporation of Delta, BC Ferries, Port Metro Vancouver, the Tsawwassen First Nation, the BC Ministry of Transportation and others.
West Portal
EP 120911 - 67 - 44 44
Kettle Valley Railway Bridge
2.3 ILLUSTRATIVE FOUNDATIONAL PROGRAM
The Illustrative Foundational Program consists of 63 actions and projects essential to building a strong and recognizable ETF identity. It is a recommended set of priority actions and is intended to have the flexibility to be guided by the various partners choosing to participate in delivery. As funding is secured, the program can advance. However, if resources or priorities change, the Foundational Program can adapt and projects of similar impact may be substituted. The Illustrative Foundational Program includes the top 20% of the over 300 amenity and feature opportunities identified for the Concept Plan which were evaluated for ‘fit’ and ‘readiness’ with ETF or alignment with existing plans and resources. It also includes a number of recommended projects that are already planned but which demonstrate how association with and connection to ETF will amplify tourism, economic development, recreation and other benefits. The Illustrative Foundational Program is laid out to align with the five concept elements, but also includes some actions that are either not geographically based, or that span the entire project area. The Illustrative Foundational Program will:
• result in sufficient on the ground presence that ETF has aecognizable, r well branded identity that reflects project goals;
• ensure that the “Canyon to Coast” Trail is navigable from Portal to Portal;
• have Recreational Blueway support infrastructure for a daily paddling distance (approximately every fifteen kilometers); and
• fill 50% of the gap in the “Canyon to Coast” Trail’s Vision Route, (completing over 70% of the total isionV Route).
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 68 - 45
Pegleg Bar
'Canyon to Coast’ Trail • Recreational access will be secured through agreements with the Province, First Nations and others along six dyke • Phase I of the “Canyon to Coast Trail" (from Fort Langley structures to fill priority gaps in the ‘Canyon to Coast’ to Colony Farm Regional Park in Metro Vancouver and Trail’s Vision Route: route to be determined in the Fraser Valley Regional àà Chilliwack from the Agassiz Bridge west to Sumas District) will be designated, in place and signed. Mountain (~20 km);
• Seven trail segments will fill priority gaps in the “Canyon àà Kent-Agassiz dyke system (16km); to Coast” Trail’s Vision Route: àà Part of the Nicomen Island dyke system (~20km); àà Hope to Agassiz along the north side of the river àà Part of the Dewdney dyke system (~9km); (waterfront) – improves connectivity for an alternate Trans-Canada cycling route (~34 km); àà Delta between the Tsawwassen First Nation and Ladner (~8 km); and àà Mission along the north side of the river (waterfront) from Silvermere Lake east to Hatzic Lake (~ 16 km); àà Tsawwassen First Nation between the BC Ferry Causeway and Corporation of Delta Dyke Trail (~4 àà Matsqui Trail west to Fort Langley (~18 km); km) àà Derby Reach Regional Park west to the Golden Ears Bridge (~2 km)– will improve connectivity for the • Five pedestrian/cycling water crossings to advance Trans-Canada Trail; connectivity over the river: àà Pitt River Greenway east to the Maple Ridge àà Upgrade the Mission Railway Bridge to waterfront at Port Hammond (~2 km); accommodate pedestrians and cyclists;
àà Surrey waterfront between the Port Mann Bridge àà Upgrade the Kettle Valley Railway Bridge and Surrey Bend Regional Park (~6 km); and underneath the Fraser Bridge (Trans-Canada Highway) in Hope to accommodate pedestrians and àà New Westminster Pier Park to Coquitlam (~3km). cyclists;
àà - Harrison River between Harrison Knob and Harrison Mills;
EP 120911 - 69 - 46 àà - Sumas River Crossing between Sumas Recreational Blueway – Mountain and Chilliwack; and Supporting Infrastructure àà - New Westminster Railway Bridge: There are currently fifteen sanctioned, motorized between the Quay and Queensborough boat launches in the Project Area. To facilitate – acknowledged as a potential and recreational boating and use of the Blueway for desired connection in the City of New day and multi-day trips, eight new or enhanced Westminster’s Official Community Plan. boat launches between the Alex Fraser Bridge and Hope are proposed in the following locations: • The points of intersection with the Trans Canada à Trail (e.g. west side of the Pitt River Bridge, à Hope; the Vedder Canal and at the two Portals) are àà Dewdney / Deroche; acknowledged and highlighted on the ground to àà Island 22 Regional Park; facilitate users’ experiences. àà Chilliwack – Rosedale area; • Existing bridges are for more than just vehicles - àà the Mission Bridge area; they have been upgraded or modified to include à a dedicated trail (pedestrian and cycling access), à Pitt Meadows at Ferry Slip Landing – under viewpoints, theme interpretation, public art, and consideration by Metro Vancouver Regional ETF branding. Parks and Pitt Meadows; àà Langley waterfront between Fort Langley • Improved pedestrian and cycling access on the and Glen Valley Regional Park – under Agassiz Bridge or replacement bridge. consideration by the Township of Langley; • Improved recreational access to and on the new and Port Mann bridge for pedestrians and cyclists, àà Surrey at Brownsville Node. ensuring dedicated ramps and improved access to communities, parks, trails and the river on • A Blueway Signage & Wayfinding System is in both sides of the bridge. place.
• Improved pedestrian and cycling access on the • All regional parks on the river will provide water Pattullo Bridge or replacement bridge. access and some amenities to support Blueway use. • If a new Fraser River bridge is built near the George Massey Tunnel, good pedestrian and • In addition, the following locations will provide cycling access is ensured, or at the very least clear access to the Blueway and sufficient there is improved functionality through the amenities to facilitate Blueway use: tunnel.
• All bridges are signed as crossings of the Fraser River. Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 70 - 47 àà - Hope (Chawathil First Nation - Telte-Yet Chawathil First Nation’s culture and heritage Campsite); would be shared through both land and river
àà - Laidlaw (FH Barber Provincial Park); based tourism services and products.
àà - Rosedale (Ferry Island Provincial Park); • The Sts'ailes Band’s Sp'óq'es - Bald Eagle Café and will be developed. This café would be a paid
àà - Harrison Mills (Kilby Provincial Park). viewing site for people to come and observe, appreciate, and photograph thousands of bald eagles who are feasting upon surplus spawned Amenity and Feature Points out salmon carcasses – a natural occurrence Infrastructure that could be promoted as a world class tourism • Improved access, trails and natural and cultural experience through this café. interpretation in Sumas Mountain Regional Park. • Xá:ytem Longhouse Interpretive Centre is • One enhanced and one proposed new FVRD located at BC’s oldest known settlement and regional park (Island 22, and Landstrom Ridge). contains over 9,000 years of Stó:lō First Nation’s history, spirituality, and culture. It is a National • Enhanced camping for paddling groups Historic Site - one of the first Native spiritual at Matsqui Trail Regional Park and three sites in Canada to be formally recognized in downstream regional parks (recommended at this manner. A heritage centre at Xá:ytem Barnston, Glen Valley and Deas Island) and new reflecting the values and the spiritual, cultural camping facilities at Chilliwack . and archaeological traditions of the Stó:lō Nation will be developed that does not compromise the • Improvements to Ferry Island Provincial Park natural or spiritual integrity of this very special including: boat launch, camping, and day-use place. amenities. Nodes Programming • Kiosks will act as a point of introduction, • ETF information is provided on BC Ferries information and orientation to the Trail and will traveling to and from the Tsawwassen Ferry be in place in existing nodes where the Interim Terminal. Route and Vision Route coincide. This occurs • Parks Canada will work with ETF to nominate the in 18 locations: Seabird Island, Harrison Hot Fraser River Dyking System as a national historic Springs, Rosedale-Popkum, Harrison Mills, event and develop associated programming at Chilliwack Waterfront, Barrowtown, Mission Parks Canada properties along the river. Waterfront, Stave, Matsqui, Fort Langley, Port Haney, Bonson, Citadel Landing, • Advance the Chawathil First Nation’s proposed New Westminster Quay, Queensborough, “Living Village Experience” – at the Telte-Yet Steveston, Ladner, and Ferry nodes. Campground in Hope. Through this experience,
EP 120911 - 71 - 48
Portals System-wide Initiatives
• A pavilion will be in place at each portal to mark the • ETF is well branded including logo, tag line, and beginning of the ETF Trail and Recreational Blueway. marketing strategy. These will be of sufficient scale to denote this as an entry • ETF website. point to ETF and to provide information, orientation, and interpretive opportunities. • ETF smart phone “app”.
• There will be a staging area with services and amenities • Five Fraser River stories will be developed and at each portal. programmed along the “Canyon to Coast” Trail.
• The Urban Portal at New Westminster will be an • Two annual events in different parts of the corridor will be important point of entry from the Burrard Peninsula, held where ETF can be celebrated. Richmond, and the North Shore. The Fraser River Discovery Centre will facilitate this portal’s function as • A full scale Way-Finding System will be in place from a significant point of entry, introduction, and orientation Hope to the Salish Sea. to ETF with a film and a small exhibit dedicated to • Add the North Arm of the Fraser River to the Project Area promoting ETF. In addition, the Fraser River Discovery and undertake the planning for this addition in the early Centre will be enhanced through the completion of its phases of implementation. fixed exhibits featuring the bold landscapes of the Fraser River from Mount Robson to the Pacific Ocean.
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan Trans Canada Trail Pavilion, North Vancouver EP 120911 - 72 - 49
Hong Kong, Ocean Park Port Mann Bridge
2.4 ASPIRATIONS… More BIG Ideas
Whereas the Foundational Program is focused on practicality and priorities, the project can stretch further. There are a multitude of creative, big ideas that could help define Experience the Fraser and set it apart as a world class outdoor recreation, cultural and heritage destination. This list is illustrative and is intended to inspire potential partners to see themselves in the Project.
Cable Car Crossings: ETF Bus Tour from Hope to the Salish Sea. Self propelled cable cars speed visitors across ‘Floatels’: Imagine waking to the sound of the water watercourses as part of the trail experience. lapping at your door in a floating Fraser River hotel or Bed and Breakfast. DeltaPort Overpass at the entrance to DeltaPort: The waterfront dyke trail is discontinuous at this location. Floating Event Venue: A trail overpass will provide connectivity and interpret port An ETF barge that is used as a stage or venue moves along and rail activities. the river for various celebrations, festivals and events.
Experiential Tourism: Fraser Ghost Ships Park: Based on the Italian ‘agriturismo’ concept where people A new park highlighting the various boats used on the vacation on a working farm and participate in its daily Fraser through history, including First Nations' canoes, a activities, imagine participating in a First Nations’ paddle wheeler, steamboat, tugboat, and fishing boats. longhouse and village, working on a pioneer heritage With their hulls partially buried, visitors can come on board farm, becoming a Royal Engineer for the day, or living at a and explore the boats and the river’s history. working Fort.
EP 120911 - 73 - 50
Fraser River Island Hopping: Paddling and camping tours through the Fraser River Islands (e.g. Bristol, Island 22, Greenwood, Croft, Vasasus, Herrling group or others with expanded First Nation partnerships). A water taxi or water bus provides transportation and regulates visits.
Pocket Picnic Riverside Parks: Small, riverfront parks, possibly linear, with a high level of accessibility, contain enclosed picnic shelters and tables for all-season use. In urban areas, food carts or vendors are located in close proximity.
Port Park: A new waterfront ‘Port Park’ where the industrial working river is showcased and interpreted. Proposed location is in Richmond at the Riverport Node.
Railway Park: A linear ‘Railway Park’ where historic and present railway stories are interpreted. The proposed location is in Surrey at Thornton Railyards.
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 74 - 51
High Line Park, NYC
River Rail tour: Travel along the Fraser River by rail and experience the Lower Fraser River Corridor from end to end in one day!
Snorkeling with the Salmon: Guided snorkeling tour on Harrison River gets people into the river swimming or floating down the river in the midst of a salmon run.
Underwater Viewing Cavern: Located on the Harrison River, this facility would provide people with a window into river life – they will see spawning salmon and other types of freshwater fish in their natural habitat.
A suite of visitor or presentation centres that are multi-experiential and partnership driven (either building from existing locations or new) that interpret Fraser River themes and support Experience the Fraser.
“The Fraser River belongs to all of us, bringing people down to the river on a trail of connectivity is just the right thing to do, from an environmental… health … recreational standpoint, there is no lose here, this is a win for everyone!
Randy Hawes, member of the legislative assembly of bc.
EP 120911 - 75 - 52 Harrison Mills and Kilby Provincial Park
3.0 NEXT STEPS
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 76 - 53
“A river seems a magic thing. A magic, moving, living part of the very earth itself.”
Laura Gilpin
3.1 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Experience the Fraser was initiated by the Fraser Valley Regional District, Metro Vancouver, and the Province: however, it has always been recognized that ETF is much bigger than these three parties. Growing and implementing the vision must to be a collaborative venture that involves many stakeholders including First Nations, municipalities, other agencies, the private sector and motivated community groups and citizens, with ongoing support and participation from the regional districts and the Province. It has already been stated that this project’s success is contingent on strong partnerships where a common vision is shared, where partners recognize the multiple benefits of participation and are committed to seeing the project come to fruition. As a result, there are a number of strategies that need further discussion and development to help guide the Concept from Plan to Implementation.
Ongoing partnership development must be the first priority. This Concept Plan illustrates what can be achieved and attempts to entice potential partners with a compelling vision, but these relationships need to be cultivated and it remains to be determined who key implementers will be and who will administer the project over time.
EP 120911 - 77 - 54
A related strategy is developing a sustainable governance and financing model. As the project moves toward implementation, there is an opportunity to open up the dialogue about governance and invite others to participate in the project in different and more direct ways. ETF crosses a number of administrative boundaries and has a large number of stakeholders, all of whom could be involved in realizing or facilitating implementation of the ETF Vision. Once it is known who is interested in participating in implementation, a sustainable governance model will define the roles and responsibilities including decision-making, accountability, project management and administration, strategic planning and priority development, and the flow of information and resources. Strongly connected to governance is a financing model that determines the longevity of the project and resourcing for administration, branding and marketing, outreach and public involvement and capital development.
“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.~
Henry Ford
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 78 - 55
There are a number of issues that challenge linear corridor and trail projects, including the fact that trails cross administrative boundaries and the challenges of land use conflicts or the geography of a region. A key ETF implementation strategy is to look at some of these cross-jurisdictional and other barriers from a regional perspective, to develop best practices and to facilitate partnerships and consistently applied solutions. Examples include securing recreational dyke access through a dyke protocol, addressing recreational interfaces with agriculture and industrial land uses, and developing an effective and consistent ways of dealing with regulatory aspects of implementing the plan.
As the ETF Implementation Strategies evolve with input from stakeholders and interested parties they will be incorporated into an Implementation Plan along with identified partners and actions. This process will be influenced by the wisdom of those who are Fraser River passionates who feel strongly that: “it’s time to focus this kind of attention on the value of the river in our daily lives and as an environmental, recreation and tourism resource and source of inspiration.”
Harrison River
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Acknowledgements
ETF Joint Political Steering Committee Metro Vancouver Staff Gayle Martin, Co-Chair Gaëtan Royer, Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Manager Sharon Gaetz, Co-Chair Ed Andrusiak, former Regional Parks Department Manager Heather Deal, MV Director Wendy DaDalt, Interregional Project Coordinator Ted Adlum, FVRD Director Heather McNell, Senior Regional Planner James Atebe, former Co-Chair Barry Potvin, Park Planner II Wayne Wright, MV Director, former Committee member Sue Mah, Interregional Administrative Support Randy Hawes, MLA Deanne Manzer, Research Technician Marc Dalton, MLA Metro Vancouver East Area Parks and Graphics
Thank you also to the Township of Langley, District of Mission and Trails BC Provincial Government Staff Peter Walters, Assistant Deputy Minister John Hawkings, Manager of Trails
Fraser Valley Regional District Staff George Murray, Chief Administrative Officer Siri Bertelsen, Director of Regional Programs Doug Wilson, Manager of Parks David Urban, Project Lead
Experience the Fraser – Concept Plan EP 120911 - 80 - 57
Photo Credits
Cover...... SkyTrain Bridge, New Westminster...... Jason Haight Cover...... Cyclists along Matsqui Trail...... Taneane Twele p. 8...... Northern Saw-whet Owl...... Jeremy Plotkin p. 13...... Get Out Youth Camp...... Chris Eastman p. 14...... Matsqui Canada Parks Day...... Taneane Twele p. 14...... Bedford Channel, Brae Island...... Larry Meneely p. 20...... Hikers in the Cascade Mountains...... Mountains to Sound Trust p. 21...... The Great Waterfront Trail Adventure...... Goh Iromoto and the Waterfront Regeneration Trust p. 21...... Cyclists on the Confluence’s Chain of Rocks Bridge.... TrailNet, St. Louis p. 22...... Midsummer Fete, Colony Farm...... Trish Erikson p. 22...... Lily at Surrey Bend Regional Park...... Ted Uhrich p. 23...... Kayakers at Mission Bridge...... Taneane Twele p. 35...... Gulf of Georgia Cannery...... Yvonne Stich p. 40...... Imperial Boardwalk...... Yvonne Stich p. 47...... Fraser River Discovery Centre...... Dana Montgomery p. 48...... North Vancouver Trans Canada Trail Pavilion...... Trails BC p. 49...... Cyclists...... Michael Lim p. 49...... Hong Kong Ocean Park Cable Car...... Wikipedia p. 50...... WildPlay Whistler Zipline...... Wildplay p. 50...... Wildplay Nanaimo Bungee Jumper...... Wildplay p. 51...... Native Paddlewheeler...... Paddlewheeler Riverboat Tours p. 51...... High Line, New York City...... Iwan Baan
EP 120911 - 81 - Fraser Valley Regional District
Fraser Valley Regional District
EP 120911 - 82 - 5.3 ATTACHMENT 2
Lower Fraser River Corridor Project
Implementation Plan for local governments
September 2012
EP 120911 - 83 - TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction p.1 GOAL 1 - CONNECT HOPE TO THE SALISH SEA 1.1 CANYON TO COAST TRAIL STRATEGY 1.1.1 Complete seven priority segments of the Canyon to Coast Trail, p.2 adding 81 km to complete 70% of the Vision Route. STRATEGY 1.1.2 Secure recreational access along 6 priority dyke segments, adding p.4 77 km to complete 70% of the Vision Route. STRATEGY 1.1.3 Advance implementation through the exploration of interfaces p.4 with Industry, Agriculture, and Rail. 1.2 RECREATIONAL BLUEWAY STRATEGY 1.2.1 At eight locations between the Alex Fraser Bridge and Hope, build p.4 a new, or enhance an existing, boat launch. STRATEGY 1.2.2 Complete five new or enhanced pedestrian / cycling water p.5 crossings to advance connectivity over the river. STRATEGY 1.2.3 Ensure vehicle bridges not only provide for adequate pedestrian p.5 and cyclist connectivity and community trail connections, but also function as features with viewpoints, opportunities for education and interpretation, public art and ETF branding. GOAL 2 - LINK AND INSPIRE EXPERIENCES ALONG THE RIVER 2.1 AMENITY AND FEATURES POINTS - CREATING DESTINATIONS STRATEGY 2.1.1 Improve recreational and cultural infrastructure along the Lower p.6 Fraser River to build one of the world’s great river destinations STRATEGY 2.1.2 Brand and Market Experience the Fraser and the Canyon to Coast p.7 Trail GOAL 3 – DEVELOPING ENDURING and COMMITTED PARTNERSHIPS 3.1 GOVERNANCE STRATEGY 3.1.1 Define the governance model and partnership roles p.9 STRATEGY 3.1.2 Strategic Planning, Tracking and Celebrating Outcomes p.10 3.2 SUSTAINABLE FINANCING STRATEGY 3.2.1 Secure sustainable financing for project costs and capital projects p.11
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EP 120911 - 84 - GOAL 4 – BUILD AND DEEPEN CONNECTIONS TO THE RIVER 4.1 PROGRAMMING STRATEGY 4.1.1 Develop programs, events, displays and other means of building p.12 and enhancing personal connections to the river. Conclusion p.14
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EP 120911 - 85 - INTRODUCTION
Experience the Fraser is an exciting vision to connect from Hope to the Salish Sea along the Lower Fraser River by means of over 550 kilometres of trail and via the river itself. The intention is to connect communities to each other and to the river, to knit together points of interest such as parks, natural features, historic and cultural sites and festivals – and to continue to build on that recreation and tourism network, creating one of the world’s great river destinations.
This Implementation Plan is an accompanying piece to the Experience the Fraser Concept Plan. It is intended to identify actions planned by local governments for the next few years that will advance the Concept Plan’s Foundational Program. It also identifies the ‘who, how and when’ associated with these actions - wherever possible, actions are ‘SMART’ or specific, measurable, actionable, realistic and time- bound. The structure of the Implementation Plan follows the structure of the Concept Plan, listing actions by Goal and Foundational Program project. The identified actions are subject to budget processes and other approvals. As a result, this snapshot of implementation actions will evolve over time, with new opportunities emerging not identified here, or shifts in priorities.
The focus of the Implementation Plan is on actions to be undertaken by Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley Regional District, the Province and the sixteen municipalities along the Fraser River within the Project Area. It also includes a few illustrative actions identified by other agencies and organizations. Much more is happening along the river beyond planned government actions that advances the objectives of Experience the Fraser, however, it is important to begin to track efforts advancing recreation and tourism infrastructure and programming along the Fraser River, and be able to measure progress towards implementing the Concept Plan. As such, the Implementation Plan is intended to both be a record of planned government actions as well as a call to action for others to participate and add their projects and plans to Experience the Fraser. The Implementation Plan will be a living document that will become even more robust as others add their actions.
Regional Districts will be asked to endorse the Implementation Plan, and adopt actions within their authority and mandate. Other agencies and organizations are invited to do the same.
Integrating diverse land uses along the Fraser River Experience the Fraser will respect and, when appropriate, embrace all land uses along the river – including First Nation and private land interests, industry, business, agriculture, parks, and environmentally sensitive areas. These are all important components of the Fraser River’s history and present. The intent of Experience the Fraser is to achieve connectivity as close to the river as possible, however, it is recognized that the proposed trail will have to be aligned to harmonize with and respect all of these interests and associated interfaces.
Many times, the trail will have to ‘go around’ these features and uses, but creative ways of integrating the trail can produce some incredibly rich experiences with benefits for all. The project will only move
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EP 120911 - 86 - forward with the cooperation of land owners who see the benefits of participating – whether that be for philanthropic or ethical reasons, that they see a business opportunity (e.g. wine tours by bike or a new customer base for gate sales), or an opportunity to improve knowledge and education about their operations (e.g. industrial tourism).
GOAL 1 CONNECT HOPE TO THE SALISH SEA
1.1 CANYON TO COAST TRAIL
Championing, planning, developing, operating and maintaining the over 550 kilometres of trail proposed in the ETF Concept Plan falls primarily to the Province, two regional districts and sixteen municipalities, through which the route travels. Local governments have authority and responsibility for land management and planning, as well as the provision of recreation infrastructure through park functions. The Province has significant holdings in Crown Land and trail function. The trail is already 43% in place, co-locating along municipal, regional and provincial trails, and the remaining 315 km gap is mostly identified in regional and municipal plans. The Province also has an important role supporting trail development by facilitating the transfer of any necessary Crown lands and by adopting an operational statement that clearly supports recreational access along dyke structures. Trails BC, both as a regional trail organization, and as BC’s representative agency for the Trans Canada Trail, plays, and will continue to play, a strong role in advocating for trail connectivity through the Lower Mainland, route identification and as an Experience the Fraser partner. There are ongoing opportunities for First Nations, Port Metro Vancouver, businesses and land owners and other interests to become advocates for the Canyon to Coast Trail and participate in its delivery.
STRATEGY 1.1.1 Complete seven priority segments of the Canyon to Coast Trail, adding 81 km and completing 70% of the Vision Route.
Planned Actions Metro Vancouver (Lead - L) will work with the Province (Support - S), the 2012-2014 Department of Fisheries and Oceans (S), industrial land owners (S) and the City Concept Plan for of New Westminster (S) to connect the Brunette-Fraser Greenway east from Restoration Sapperton Landing to Spruce Street with a long-term aim of connecting off-road $20,000 to Coquitlam. This trail segment is part of a Foundational Program segment of Trail cost to be the Canyon to Coast Trail. The project also involves bank restoration and in- determined stream works along the Brunette River, and is part of Metro Vancouver’s Ecological Health Action Plan (2011).
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EP 120911 - 87 - The Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will undertake a Trail Study to better 2012 understand the construction costs of implementing the ETF Vision Route within Existing Resources the FVRD, and to help prioritize trail segments to advance. The District of Kent (L) will complete the Mountain View System by widening a 2012 kilometre of the shoulder along Mountain View Road. $15,000 The District of Kent (L), with support from the Province (S), will create a 2014-2015 pedestrian-friendly pathway between Morrow Road (Haig Highway) and the Tea $50,000 Cup (Highway 7 and 9) which will include a connection to the end of the Mountain View Trail. The Township of Langley (L), with financial support from the Province (S) 2012-2013 through the Community Recreation Grant, will complete 2.5 kilometres of $525,000 shared-use trail connecting from Derby Reach Regional Park west to the Golden
Ears Bridge. The trail will be 3 metres wide and include signage, benches and landscaping. This work will complete a significant section of the Trans-Canada Trail, and will complete the longest segment of the Canyon to Coast Trail, over 33 km connecting four municipalities. The Township of Langley (L), in partnership with ParkLane Developments (S) and 2012 funding from the Province’s Local Motion Program (S), will construct the $500,000 Bedford Landing Overpass, a pedestrian and cycling bridge over the CN Railway with a connecting trail to the Fort to Fort Trail and the community of Fort Langley. The Township of Langley (L) will design a shared-use overpass to connect the 2012-2013 Fort Langley National Historic Site over the CN Railway and River Road to the $50,000 Fraser River waterfront. The District of Maple Ridge (L) and District of Mission (L) will explore options to 2012-2013 connect the two municipal trail systems. Existing Resources The City of Pitt Meadows (L) and District of Maple Ridge (L) will develop a trail 2012 connection under the Golden Ears Bridge, connecting from just south of Airport $40,000 Way to Kingston St. and continuing south to the river. This is part of a
Foundational Program connection to Port Hammond. The City of Pitt Meadows (L) will continue to work with the Province (S) and the 2014-2015 Katzie First Nation (S) to extend the Pitt River Greenway east to Maple Ridge Existing Resources under the Golden Ears Bridge. The City of Surrey (L) will undertake a Fraser River Access Study to identify 2013 barriers to public access and determine a long-range plan for promoting public $150,000 access to the waterfront, including the development of the Riverside Greenway as proposed along the south edge of the South Fraser Perimeter Road.
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EP 120911 - 88 - The City of Surrey (L) will work with the Ministry of Transportation and 2013-2014 Infrastructure (S) to secure a right of way for the proposed Riverside Greenway Cost to be as part of the South Fraser Perimeter Road project. Determined
STRATEGY 1.1.2 Secure recreational access along six priority dyke segments
Planned Actions The Province (L) with the support of Metro Vancouver (S) and the Fraser Valley 2012 Regional District (S), will develop and adopt an Operational Statement Existing Resources supporting Recreational Access on Dyke Structures. The Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will explore options identified in the 2012-2015 Illustrative Foundation Program to advance the Canyon to Coast Trail along the 2012 prov. funds dyke system. Funds will be spent on the project(s) that are best aligned with existing resources and partnerships and have the potential to leverage other contributions.
STRAGEGY 1.1.3 Advance implementation through the exploration of interfaces with Industry, Agriculture, and Rail.
Planned Actions Metro Vancouver (L) will facilitate outreach with industrial land owners along 2013-2014 the river to develop design guidelines for the trail’s interface with industry and Cost to be will implement one demonstration project - location to be determined. Determined
1.2 RECREATIONAL BLUEWAY
The Recreational Blueway component of Experience the Fraser expresses the recreational use of the river itself. The Blueway is best expressed through the infrastructure that supports recreational use of the Lower Fraser River, including boat launches, access points, day-use facilities and camping. The two regional districts, municipalities and the Province are mainly responsible for delivering blueway infrastructure. This role is derived from their responsibilities for land management and planning as well as the provision of recreation infrastructure through park functions. The Marine Trails Network Association of BC is a registered society dedicated to establishing a network of accessible sites along the BC Coast, including sections of the Fraser River. They work closely with the Province’s Recreational Site and Trails BC and continue to provide input to the ETF project.
STRATEGY 1.2.1 At eight locations between the Alex Fraser Bridge and Hope, build a new, or enhance an existing, boat launch to ensure adequate river access as a minimum of
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EP 120911 - 89 - every fifteen kilometres along the river, and improve water access and amenities at locations identified in the Foundation Program.
Planned Actions Metro Vancouver (L), the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) and the District of 2012-2013 Mission (L) will explore an appropriate location to provide an improved boat Cost to be Confirmed launch near the Mission Bridge, either as part of Matsqui Trail Regional Park improvements or at the Mission waterfront. The Township of Langley (L) will conduct a feasibility study for the relocation of 2012-2013 a motorized boat launch out of Bedford Channel / Marina Park. $30,000
STRATEGY 1.2.2 Complete five new or enhanced pedestrian / cycling water crossings to advance connectivity over the river.
Planned Actions The Fraser Valley Regional District (S) and the District of Hope (S) will advocate 2012-2015 for the Province (L) to revitalize the Kettle Valley Railway Bridge at Hope to Cost Not Yet facilitate pedestrian and cyclist access below the Hope Bridge and provide trail Determined connectivity on either side.
STRATEGY 1.2.3 Ensure vehicle bridges not only provide for adequate pedestrian and cyclist connectivity and community trail connections, but also, where appropriate, function as destinations with viewpoints, opportunities for education and interpretation, public art and Experience the Fraser branding.
Planned Actions Metro Vancouver (S) will participate in the Pattullo Bridge Replacement 2012-2013 consultation process to advocate for the new bridge to provide a dedicated trail Existing Resources for pedestrian and recreational cyclist connectivity, viewpoints and interpretive
and educational opportunities. Metro Vancouver (S) will participate in discussions about a replacement / Cost Not Yet expansion of the George Massey Tunnel and advocate for good pedestrian and Determined cycling access and connectivity, viewpoints and interpretive and educational opportunities to be included in any solution. The Province (L) will integrate the multi-use ETF trail across the new Port Mann 2013 Bridge, minimize the exposure of pedestrians and cyclists to highway traffic and Cost Not Yet improve access by pedestrians and cyclists to parks and greenways on both Determined sides of the Fraser.
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EP 120911 - 90 - GOAL 2
LINK AND INSPIRE EXPERIENCES ALONG THE RIVER
2.1 AMENITY AND FEATURES POINTS - CREATING DESTINATIONS
Creating and enhancing destinations along the Fraser River is being undertaken by all levels of government, First Nations, other agencies, the private sector, and NGOs. Over 300 discrete, location- based opportunities to either build or enhance ‘experiences’ along the Fraser were identified in the ETF Concept Plan. There are also a number of non-spatially-based opportunities as well as some that apply at numerous locations throughout the project area.
STRATEGY 2.1.1 Improve recreational and cultural infrastructure along the Lower Fraser River to build one of the world’s great river destinations
Planned Actions Metro Vancouver (L), with some financial support from the Province (S), will 2013-2015 expand and enhance the Mission Bridge Day-Use Area at Matsqui Trail Regional $1,150,000 Park in Abbotsford, including parking, river viewpoint, washrooms, and water access; and create a new Riverfront Day-Use Area. + 2012 prov. funds Metro Vancouver (L) and the City of Surrey (L), with some financial support from 2012-2014 the Province (S) will open the parkland at Surrey Bend Regional Park and $3,500,000 develop a new park with a riverfront trail, trail access and amenities. + 2012 prov. funds Metro Vancouver (L) will improve day-use amenities at Colony Farm Regional 2012-2013 $900,000 Park including new washrooms along the trail alignment. Metro Vancouver (L), with financial support from the Province (S), will improve 2014 water access at Kanaka Creek Regional Park in Maple Ridge including improved $50,000 canoe launching. + 2012 prov. funds Metro Vancouver (L), the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) and participating Ongoing municipalities (S) will continue to focus park acquisition along the Fraser River, among other priorities, to support ETF. Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will 2013-2014 collaboratively plan, manage and enhance Sumas Mountain Interregional Park. Cost Not Yet Determined The Sts’ailes (formerly Chehalis Indian Band) (L) and the Hancock Wildlife 2012-2013 Foundation (S) will develop the Sp'óq'es (Bald Eagle) Café where the public can $85,000 view and appreciate bald eagles feasting on spawned out salmon carcasses.
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EP 120911 - 91 - The Province of BC (S) will assist Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Ongoing Regional District (L) with acquiring access to, tenure, or transfer of Provincial lands and improvements for the project, including Crown Lands, dykes, and utility corridors (as per the MOU, April 9, 2012). The Village of Harrison Hot Springs (L), with financial support from the Province 2012-2013 (S), will construct a splash water park for children on the beach. $250,000 The Village of Harrison Hot Springs (L), with the financial support of the Province 2012-2015 (S) will make improvements to the tourism infrastructure with a focus on the $1,550,000 waterfront.
The Corporation of Delta (L) will undertake the revitalization of the Ladner 2014-2015 Waterfront including improvements to waterfront access, boardwalks and trails, Cost Not Yet mixed use redevelopment permitting pedestrian-oriented retail, commercial, Determined recreation, public use, with office and residential uses above the first story. The
redevelopment will also encourage public art, and interpretation of the agricultural, fishing, First Nations and multi-cultural heritage of Ladner. The City of Richmond (L) will update and enhance the Steveston Waterfront 2013-2014 Wayfinding and Signage System with more directional signage including creative $150,000 wayfinding (e.g. distinctive bronze markers in the ground, theme-oriented walks, potential apps. and an interpretation plan). The City of Richmond (L) will, jointly with the Federal Government of Canada(S), 2013-2014 develop a Steveston Harbour Business Plan. A long-term vision for the $100,000 redevelopment of the harbour was developed by Small Craft Harbours. The City will hire a consultant to provide a business case for the need to dredge the Steveston Channel to keep it open and economically viable and sustainable for both the fishing industries and the upland businesses and the City.
STRATEGY 2.1.2 Brand and Market Experience the Fraser and the Canyon to Coast Trail
Planned Actions Metro Vancouver (L) and Fraser Valley Regional District (L), with funding from 2013 the Province (S), will develop an ETF sign plan including sign design, standards 2012 prov. funds and acquisition protocol for Experience the Fraser’s Canyon to Coast Trail and Blueway. Metro Vancouver (L) and Fraser Valley Regional District (L), with funding from 2013 the Province (S), will develop an ETF panel to be used on Park Kiosks along the 2012 prov. funds vision route to describe the project and its long term goals.
Metro Vancouver (L) and Fraser Valley Regional District (L), with funding from 2013
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EP 120911 - 92 - the Province (S), will develop an ETF Speakers’ Bureau. 2012 prov. funds Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (L), with funding 2013 from the Province (S), will develop a travelling exhibit to use at event and 2012 prov. funds festivals to continue to brand and market ETF and generate community excitement. Metro Vancouver (L), with funding from the Province (S), will partner with Port 2013 Coquitlam (S), Pitt Meadows (S), and Township of Langley (S), and Trails BC (S) 2012 prov. funds to sign the portion of Phase I of the Canyon to Coast Trail in Metro Vancouver from historic Fort Langley to Colony Farm Regional Park (33 km). Metro Vancouver (L), with funding from the Province (S), will sign regional parks 2014 within Metro Vancouver along Phase I of the Canyon to Coast Blueway from the 2012 prov. funds Water Trail side. Metro Vancouver (L) will develop an iTrails app for smart phones, providing trail 2012 information for users on trails throughout Metro Vancouver. Cost not yet Determined Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (S) will work 2013 collaboratively to make ETF data seamless and available for trail users. Cost not yet Determined
The Fraser Valley Regional District (L), with funding from the Province (S), will 2014-2015 partner with municipalities (S) and others to sign the portion of the Phase I of 2012 prov. funds the Canyon to Coast Trail in the FVRD on completed segments of dyke trail. The Province of BC (Tourism BC and the Vancouver Coast and Mountain Region 2013-2014 Office) (L) to provide advice on branding and the creation of a marketing plan Cost not yet that supports provincial and regional objectives. Determined
GOAL 3 DEVELOP ENDURING AND COMMITTED PARTNERSHIPS
3.1 GOVERNANCE
Successfully delivering the Experience the Fraser vision is contingent on broad participation where partners see themselves in the project and are inspired to deliver components within their jurisdiction
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EP 120911 - 93 - and that are aligned with their interests. The founding ETF partners are Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley Regional District and the Province of BC. The regional districts, in partnership with municipalities in the Project Area, are the key deliverers of ETF vision because of their responsibilities for land use planning and management, the provision of recreation infrastructure through their Parks functions, and their philosophical and practical experience in community engagement. The Province has an important and ongoing role to play through the delivery of the Provincial Trails Strategy, responsibility for Tourism BC, Crown Lands, active transportation interests and potential funding opportunities.
Non-governmental organizations with a river-wide mandate (e.g. Trails BC and the Rivers Institute) and river-wide partnerships (e.g. Fraser Basin Council and the Fraser River Salmon Table) have a special role to play in that their work, although separate, partially overlaps and integrates the objectives of Experience the Fraser. They are uniquely positioned to deliver key parts of the ETF vision simply by meeting their own mandates. First Nations, other agencies, community groups with recreation, conservation, heritage and culture, and tourism interests, and the private sector, including industrial and agricultural land owners, philanthropic interests, and business interests all have a valuable role to play if and where they choose to participate.
A well-defined governance structure that lays out roles and responsibilities for participants including decision making, accountability, strategic planning, project management and administration and the flow of information and resources is an essential component of successful implementation. The ETF Concept Plan identifies the development and confirmation of a sustainable governance and financing model as a significant priority for the Implementation Plan.
STRATEGY 3.1.1 Define the governance model and partner roles
Planned Actions Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will continue to Ongoing jointly and collaboratively lead ETF, formalizing the relationship and roles and responsibilities through an MOU. This will be an interim governance structure for 3-5 years, and is essentially the role that the Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley Regional District have been playing since the project’s inception in 2009. It includes strategic planning, partnership development, acting as the project catalyst and convenor responsible for developing the concept, tracking progress and outcomes. Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will continue to Ongoing brand and market Experience the Fraser within the context of their corporate mandates. Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will continue to Ongoing implement the Foundational Program – building and operating the Canyon to Coast Trail, Blueway and Amenity and Feature Points within their jurisdiction,
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EP 120911 - 94 - and influencing the implementation of the Program beyond their mandate. Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will continue to Ongoing advance a long-term governance model. Two preferred options will be considered: a) an Experience the Fraser Project Board or b) an Experience the Fraser Foundation. The Province (L) will continue to be a key partner in the project as laid out in the Ongoing ETF MoU, April 2012. Municipalities (L) within the Project Area endorse the Experience the Fraser Ongoing Concept as a regionally important and beneficial initiative that warrants broad participation; commit to integrating ETF into municipal plans and actions (such as Official Community Plans, Park and Trail Plans) wherever feasible.
STRATEGY 3.1.2 Strategic Planning, Tracking and Celebrating Outcomes
Planned Actions Metro Vancouver (L), with the support of the Fraser Valley Regional District (S), 2013 will undertake the planning for, and integration of, the North Arm of the Fraser River into ETF. [Vancouver (S); Burnaby (S); Richmond (S); New Westminster (S)] Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will maintain the Ongoing ETF Planning Atlas and GIS components, and track progress and emerging opportunities. Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will host an Ongoing annual event to celebrate successes and track progress on implementation. Metro Vancouver (L), the Fraser Valley Regional District (L), and the Province (L) Ongoing will collaborate on strategies to support ETF on an ongoing basis (e.g. ETF’s integration into the Provincial Trail Strategy, ETF’s branding and marketing and fit with the Province’s Gaining the Edge Tourism Strategy). Municipalities (L) within the Project Area will continue to provide a staff liaison Ongoing to the project to integrate ETF into municipal plans and projects where feasible and appropriate, and to participate in ongoing implementation tracking.
3.2 SUSTAINABLE FINANCING
A key question that is often asked about ETF is how much will it cost. The answer really depends on what you choose to call an ETF project versus those which are either influenced by, or simply support ETF objectives.
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EP 120911 - 95 - Experience the Fraser will be implemented by many agencies and organizations within the context of existing plans and budgets. The majority of actions identified in the Concept and Implementation Plans are already identified in Official Community Plans and parks, greenways and other plans. It is through stitching all of our collective, planned initiatives together, that Experience the Fraser as a regional tourism brand and product will begin to emerge, and the reality that the whole is much greater than that sum of its parts become evident. There is great momentum in the actions already planned along the Fraser River. These projects are being planned within a local context for many reasons, and, once completed, will also serve to advance ETF’s objectives and benefit the region as a whole. For example, there are a number of large waterfront redevelopment projects underway in the region being undertaken by municipalities. These are not directly Experience the Fraser projects, and are being undertaken by municipalities for their own benefits, yet, the outcomes also clearly advance ETF exemplify ETF’s objectives - from an improved connectivity, infrastructure and/or programming base along the river, and the ongoing development of a regional tourism destination.
And, as efforts along the river continue, they in turn spur new opportunities and stimulate further investments. For example, in the past five years, as new segments of trail have been added in Pitt Meadows and the Township of Langley, one new bicycle shop with a rental component has opened up, and another has received approval to open. A new Bed and Breakfast has also opened along a new segment of trail.
However, in terms of planning, there will possibly be some opportunity costs or trade-offs. As attention and momentum continue to turn towards the Fraser River, other projects or priorities may have to be put on hold. All implementation partners will have to evaluate the consequences of such decisions and act accordingly.
There are three types of costs associated with Experience the Fraser. First, there are the capital costs - those associated with building or developing the 300+ projects in the Concept Plan, and second, there are project costs - those associated with carrying the ETF vision, administration, strategic planning, fundraising, tracking progress, communications and outreach. There will also be operating and maintenance costs to the capital project. The capital and operating costs will be the responsibility of the agencies, organizations, and partnerships undertaking the projects. The benefits that ETF provides include the brand identity, as we collectively continue to build a globally renowned tourism destination, and the ability to leverage partnerships and additional funding opportunities. The project costs are strongly associated with the chosen governance model. Sustainable financing includes both types of costs.
STRATEGY 3.2.1 Secure sustainable financing for project costs and capital projects
Planned Actions The Province (L) will consider requests from Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Ongoing Valley Regional District for additional funding as stipulated in the Memorandum of Understanding, April 9, 2012.
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EP 120911 - 96 - Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will seek ongoing Ongoing and consistent funding opportunities for ETF as part of the exploration of a long-term governance structure. Options not dependent on an annual grant include: taxation authority, membership shares or fees, portion of the gas tax, and fundraising through non-profit. Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will, in the short 2012 term, investigate means to funnel/ grant funds provided to regional districts for ETF purposes, to other partners and projects. Metro Vancouver (L), the Fraser Valley Regional District (L), and Municipalities Ongoing (L) within the Project Area will continue to align Capital Plans with ETF objectives wherever feasible, seeking to leverage funds and additional public and private sector partners.
GOAL 4
BUILD AND DEEPEN CONNECTIONS TO THE RIVER
4.1 PROGRAMMING
STRATEGY 4.1.1 Develop programs, displays, events and other means of building and enhancing personal connections to the river.
Planned Actions Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser River Discovery Centre (L), with support 2013 from the Province (S), will build a permanent display at the Fraser River $30,000 Discovery Centre that support ETF themes and helps delineate the FRDC as part of ETF’s Urban Portal at the New Westminster waterfront. This will build brand- identity, provide education, awareness, and interpretation of the river. The Fraser River Discovery Centre (L), with support from the City of New 2012 Westminster (S), Metro Vancouver (S), the Province of BC (S), the Vancouver $46,000 Foundation (S), and Suncor Energy Foundation (S) will replace 22 interpretive, Fraser River themed panels along 1.3 km of the New Westminster waterfront. One panel will be focused on ETF as a project. The Fraser Valley Regional District (L) and the Mission Harbour Authority (L) will 2012 build interpretive signage and displays in the River Interpretation Centre along $6,000 the Mission waterfront. Metro Vancouver (L) and the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will advocate for 2013
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EP 120911 - 97 - Parks Canada to nominate the Fraser River Dyking Story as a national historic Cost Not Yet event and to program it accordingly at National Historic Sites along the river. Determined Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley Regional District (L) will continue to 2013-2014 work with First Nations in the Project Area to explore opportunities to develop Existing Resources the cultural and heritage themes along the river and associated programming. The City of Richmond (L) will develop a ‘Steveston Pass’ allowing access into all 2012-2013 the different sites/ amenities/programs in Steveston - both private and public. $75,000 The intent is to promote spending half-day or full-day experiencing Steveston, both on land and on the water. The City of Richmond (L) will put on an interactive play (as well as temporary 2013 public art) that uses the Britannia Heritage Shipyards as a theatrical $200,000 stage. Historic elements, as well as the river, will be used as props in telling the stories of the past. The Salmon Row Cultural Event at Britannia ran for 10 days in 2011 and was highly successful. The company Mortal Coil has been hired to stage another cultural event in August, 2013. The Province, through the Gateway Program (L) will work with First Nations and 2013-2014 the Delta Heritage Commission (S) to preserve the St. Mungo archaeological site Cost Not Yet in Delta (as a result of the South Fraser Perimeter Road environmental Determined assessment process). A site management plan has been developed and works are in progress to create a trail system, with educational signage and artwork, incorporating traditional knowledge, to protect and commemorate the site. Trails BC (L), Metro Vancouver (S), and the Fraser Valley Regional District (S) will Ongoing host an annual Trans Canada Trail focused trail event that connects to the Cost Not Yet Fraser River. In 2012, the Trans Canada Trail Challenge travelled from Colony Determined Farm Regional Park to historic Fort Langley, along 33 km of ETF trail.
CONCLUSION The Experience the Fraser Implementation Plan is a snapshot of planned provincial, regional district and municipal actions toward advancing ETF’s Foundational Program in the next 3-5 years. It is, by necessity, a living document to be strengthened as communities, businesses, industry, community groups and motivated individuals continue to see the benefits of contributing to this incredible project. Come, and Experience the Fraser!
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EP 120911 - 98 - 5.3 ATTACHMENT 3
Examples of Preferred Governance Models
Preferred Governance Model 1: Regional Districts as Joint Leads with Broader Partnership involvement Example: Okanagan Water Board
This is an Inter-regional collaborative local government agency founded in 1970 to promote the shared water interests of Okanagan communities. It was established through the Municipalities Enabling and Validating Act and supplementary letters patent (SLP) to three Okanagan regional districts. The Board of Directors includes three representatives from each of the three regional districts, appointed on an annual basis, one representative from the Okanagan Nation Alliance, one from the Water Supply Association of BC and one from the Okanagan Water Stewardship Council. The Council is a permanent Standing Committee of the Board comprised of technical experts and water stakeholders. Municipalities are represented through the regional districts. The Board is independently staffed. The Board has taxation authority, pools and directs funds through grants for facility upgrades and conservation and improvement projects to local and regional governments, NGOs and others, acts as an information hub, coordinates projects, and brings together funding and administration.
Preferred Governance Model 2: Foundation or Non-Profit led with a Steering Committee comprised of regional districts and other partners Example: Waterfront Regeneration Trust
The Waterfront Regeneration Trust has a 4 member Board of Directors and is independently staffed. It coordinates the planning, development and enhancement of Ontario’s 780 kilometre Waterfront Trail. It is responsible for marketing, communications, outreach, events, and education programming as well as fundraising for capital projects. The Trust also develops the trail standards and signage and coordinates inter-municipal connections. The trail goes through 41 communities involving over 60 governments and conservation authorities. The municipalities and other government land management agencies own the trail. They come up with the alignments and build and operate the trail.
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5.4
Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012
To: Environment and Parks Committee
From: Frieda Schade, Central Area Parks Manager Alison Evely, Natural Resource Management Specialist Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department
Date: August 22, 2012
Subject: Surrey Bend Regional Park - Transportation Investment Corporation (TI Corp) Proposal for Fish Habitat Compensation Project
Recommendation:
That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the report dated August 22, 2012, titled “Surrey Bend Regional Park - Transportation Investment Corporation (TI Corp) Proposal for Fish Habitat Compensation Project”.
1. PURPOSE
To inform the Environment and Parks Committee of a proposal by TI Corp to develop salmon habitat at Surrey Bend Regional Park. Staff will report back to the Committee and Board for approval once an acceptable concept plan has been fully developed.
2. CONTEXT
Transportation Investment Corporation (TI Corp) is the crown corporation formed to deliver BC’s major transportation improvements, including the Port Mann Highway 1 and the South Fraser Perimeter Road. TI Corp has approached MV staff with a proposal to develop salmon habitat at Surrey Bend Regional Park in compensation for loss of habitat associated with the development of South Fraser Perimeter Road through Fraser Heights. The preliminary concept as outlined in the attached letter to MV involves removing barriers to fish, enhancing existing channels and constructing new tidal channels in the south-eastern portion of the park (Attachment 1). There is much work to do to develop this concept fully and staff will be seeking direction from the Committee and the Board before proceeding.
Fit with the Surrey Bend Regional Park Management Plan and Site Plan The Surrey Bend Regional Park Management Plan was adopted by the Board in September 2010. The TI Corp proposal is consistent with the ecological objectives of the management plan, specifically objective 1, to protect and enhance sensitive ecosystems and critical habitats for wildlife and vegetation, including bog, marsh, and riparian forest areas and objective 5, to provide access to a variety of unique wetland landscape types for passive recreation, education, and nature study. Ecosystem restoration and enhancement are recognized as important strategies in meeting these objectives.
Surrey Bend Regional Park is not yet open to the public. The site serves some informal uses, such as hiking, dog walking and fishing. Basic facilities to accommodate recreation
EP 120911 - 100 - Surrey Bend Regional Park - Transportation Investment Corporation (TI Corp) Proposal for Fish Habitat Compensation Project Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012 Page 2 of 2
are now being planned as part of the implementation of the Management Plan. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2014. The scope of work is to provide road access, washrooms, a picnic area, parking lot and trails (Attachment 2). The proposed TI Corp project overlaps the facility development area and Metro Vancouver’s plan will need to be changed.
Staff have identified a number of criteria for the habitat compensation project to integrate with and provide habitat and visual variety to the park. These are attached (Attachment 3) and will guide staff in discussions with TI Corp.
Fit with MV Utilities Plans to Twin Sewer Line through Surrey Bend Preliminary design for the Maple Ridge Forcemain – Surrey Section Twinning is just getting underway with an exploration of alternative alignments and technologies. The TI Corp project does not affect the area anticipated to be required for the sewer line, but it may utilize the same construction access. The need to coordinate construction scheduling and access with MV utilities has been identified in the criteria (Attachment 3 # 12).
Process TI Corp will complete technical and feasibility studies and will work with Metro Vancouver staff, consultants, the Province and DFO to develop an acceptable concept design and to explore opportunities for integration with MVs program to construct recreational facilities and the twinned sewer. An early discussion with the Province is noted (Attachment 3, #2) to ensure the project complies with a covenant on title held by the Province.
Staff will report back to the Committee and Board once an acceptable concept design is available with a request for authorization to participate with TI Corp in a public stakeholder meeting. If the project is well received, staff will then seek the Board’s final approval and identify remaining steps in the process, including a license agreement with TI Corp.
3. ALTERNATIVES
a) That the Committee receive the report for information.
b) That staff be asked to report with further information.
4. CONCLUSION
Staff recommend Option A. The project offers an opportunity to develop salmon habitat at Surrey Bend Regional Park through a contribution by TI Corp.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Surrey Bend Habitat Enhancement Proposal – Correspondence dated August 2, 2012 from Gary Dawson, Vice President, Technical Services, Transportation Investment Corporation addressed to Frieda Schade, Central Area Parks Manager, Metro Vancouver (Doc. # 6433050). 2. Proposed Habitat Enhancement Area Map (Doc. # 6433876). 3. Criteria for Acceptance of Habitat Compensation Project at Surrey Bend Regional Park (Doc. # 6433049).
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Centre Creek 820 Trail 275 380
FUTURE WEST 485 Centre Creek West Viewpoint ENTRY 1800 OVERPASS future Forest LoopTrail Existing Bridge Future South Fraser future West Trail 580 Perimeter Road Centre Creek East Viewpoint alignment 00 2 125 1. Distances are in meters. 400 active
370 Meadow Proposed Habitat Enhancement Area Trail Proposed Maple Ridge Forcemain - Surrey Section Twinning 385 Existing North Surrey Interceptor
Existing Maple Ridge Forcemain - Surrey Section 450
Surrey Bend Regional Park Management Plan 350
Planned Trails & Viewpoints SpireaTrail Pacific Trail Parson's Channel Viewpoint Viewpoint - Phase 1 (location approximate, not to scale) 450
Viewpoint - later Phase (location approximate, not to scale)
0 Type A - Phase 1: Pedestrian narrow (600 mm min.) 4
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Type A - later phase: Pedestrian narrow (600 mm min.) 4
Type B -Phase 1: Pedestrian Universal (1500 mm min. Gravel) ENTRANCE AND 430 Type C - later phase: Shared - Universal - Gravel (3000 - 4000mm) ACTIVITY UNIT - could be vehicle rated if twin sewer line is constructed Type D - Phase 1: Shared - Gravel (3000 mm) (Service Road ) 1200 metres of Type E: Shared - Universal - Gravel (3000 mm) Beaver 1200m within pathwaysEntrance andwithin Trail Entrance and Pacific Trail: Existing Service Road - Shared 485 Activity Unit
Existing watercourse with 30m riparian setback 104 AVENUE Watercourse/ditch crossing
Attachment 2: Proposed Habitat Enhancement Area - approximately 57ha (140 acres)
6433876 EP 120911 - 103 - 5.4 ATTACHMENT 3
Attachment 3: Criteria for Acceptance of Habitat Compensation Project at Surrey Bend Regional Park
The Surrey Bend Habitat Compensation project should:
1. provide a package of benefits that are commensurate with the value of the land being occupied; 2. respect the covenant registered on title by obtaining Provincial approvals at an early time and complying with the covenant’s consultation requirements 3. be situated to: a. avoid significant trees and minimize tree cutting b. avoid red and blue listed ecosystems (Sitka spruce-salmonberry and Cottonwood-red osier dogwood) and other areas of high sensitivity, by (for example) locating channels in areas of hardhack and reed canarygrass; 4. enhance opportunities for wildlife viewing, education and enjoyment of the park; 5. provide up to three interpretive signs or other interpretive or recreational elements 6. increase biodiversity and enhance habitat for a range of species (reptiles, amphibians, birds, plants etc) not just fish; 7. mimic, enhance and/or utilize natural hydrological processes that already occur in the park and avoid changes to bog hydrology; 8. not increase the risk of flooding to existing or planned park facilities; 9. work with the Pacific Water Shrew (PWS) Recovery Team to identify possible enhancements for PWS and use Best Management Practices (Craig and Vennesland, 2007) to protect PWS and their habitat; 10. protect and, if possible and practical, enhance habitat for Species of Concern (e.g. red-legged frog, Vancouver Island beggarticks, slender-spike mannagrass) or species of special interest (e.g. fawn lily) that may occur in the area and where suitable opportunities present; 11. reuse excavated materials in a way that benefits the park (e.g. enhancement plantings, trail base, noise attenuation, or other elements identified in the park facility development plan) or remove from site, if required; 12. work with MV staff and consultants, and contractors to integrate and coordinate construction activities and logistics with other possible construction activities on site, including park facility construction and the twinning of the sewer main; 13. provide water crossings associated with the new channels and, where agreed, assist in the design and construction of boardwalks, trails and/or other planned infrastructure identified in the park facility development plan. 14. be of an appropriate scale for the park and sufficient scope to address any compensation requirements that MV incurs as a result of planned park developments (currently estimated at 340 M2 aquatic and 2500 m2 riparian, but this may change) within the scope of the project; 15. include a public consultation and outreach program acceptable to MV; 16. be carried out so as to minimize disturbance to the park and wildlife during construction and restore all areas to MV’s satisfaction; 17. identify short and long term maintenance needs and wildlife management implications and carry out all maintenance for a period of time to be mutually agreed on; 18. meet all federal, provincial and municipal permitting requirements and acquire permits as needed; 19. conduct effectiveness monitoring to meet DFO and MV objectives.
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5.5
Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012
To: Environment and Parks Committee
From: Jamie Vala, Parks Planner Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department
Date: August 14, 2012
Subject: Riverview Lands – Update on Technical Submission to the Province
Recommendation:
That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the report dated August 14, 2012, titled “Riverview lands - Update on Technical Submission to the Province”.
1. PURPOSE
The purpose of this report is to inform the Environment and Parks Committee about staff’s submission to the Riverview heritage values consultation process.
2. CONTEXT
At the June 6, 2012 Environment and Parks Committee meeting, staff submitted an information report dated May 24, 2012 and titled “Riverview Lands”. At this time, the Committee supported the development of a technical submission by staff as part of the provincial planning process centered on Riverview and recommended Metro Vancouver request to be more directly involved in discussions about site management. This report provides information on how that recommendation was followed up.
Staff submitted a technical memo to the Province and to the consultants responsible for the Riverview heritage values consultation process on June 28, 2012 (Attachment #1). This memo outlined the important connections between Riverview and Colony Farm Regional Park as well as highlighted the values of several significant features at Riverview. The content of this technical memo was also discussed at a meeting between staff and the consultant team on July 18, 2012.
A request was also made that Metro Vancouver be appointed to any future committees the Province may establish with respect to the future of the Riverview lands.
3. ALTERNATIVES
None presented.
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4. CONCLUSION
A technical memo outlining the important connections between Riverview and Colony Farm Regional Park has been submitted to the Province and their consultants responsible for the Riverview heritage values consultation process.
ATTACHMENT
Riverview Natural Heritage Stewardship Advisory Committee – Correspondence dated June 28, 2012 from Gaëtan Royer, Manager, Metro Vancouver addressed to Mr. Greg Hamilton, Real Estate Manager, Real Estate Release of Assets for Economic Generation, Province of British Columbia (Doc. # 6433418).
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EP 120911 - 106 - EP 120911 - 107 - Attachment #1 ‐ Riverview Heritage Conservation Plan
Colony Farm Regional Park is located directly south of Riverview separated by the Lougheed Highway (Appendix 1). The history of the two sites is inextricably linked together. Both Colony Farm and Riverview are part of the traditional territory of the Kwikwetlem First Nation. In 1904, Riverview and Colony Farm were purchased by the Province. The hospital was sited at Riverview (Essondale) and Colony Farm was started to supply food for the residents of Riverview. The farm was well known throughout the province for its prize winning dairy herd and the patients of Riverview Hospital worked on the farm as part of their therapy. Colony Farm was operated as a farm until 1983. In 1996, the Colony Farm lands were transferred to Metro Vancouver and dedicated as park land while the Riverview lands remained in ownership of the Province. The Province is closing Riverview Hospital and is now in the process of determining what to do with the land and its assets. Metro Vancouver is interested in maintaining and strengthening transportation and ecological connections between Riverview and Colony Farm. There are also several features of Riverview that could have significant value to a parks system.
Transportation Connections Connections through Riverview provide an important access point from the surrounding neighbourhoods of Coquitlam to Colony Farm Regional Park. The bus travels through Riverview, stopping at the intersection of Cape Horn Avenue and Colony Farm Road, the closest bus stop to the Park. The Coquitlam Strategic Transportation Plan designates a greenway and a Class 1 cycle facility through Riverview providing much needed pedestrian and bicycle connections from the park to Coquitlam town centre. The Lougheed Highway is a major barrier to connections between Riverview and Colony Farm. A future connection across the highway would strengthen pedestrian, bicycle, and wildlife access. Such a connection would help to reunite this important landscape unit.
Ecological Connections Riverview represents a critical habitat node in an ecological corridor that connects the Fraser River to Burrard Inlet and the mountains via Colony Farm, Mundy Park, Chineside Ravine, Eagle Ridge Park, and Bramble Park to Eagle Mountain. These types of corridors are important for maintaining biodiversity in the urban environment. Corridors allow movement of species between habitat nodes, room for ecological processes to occur, and the opportunity for gene flow between individuals and populations. Space for movement and adaptation is especially important as an insurance tool to allow species to survive a range of natural and human made disturbances. Water from several creeks, including Mundy Creek, flows into Colony Farm from Riverview. It is important to protect the riparian areas and upland areas as this connectivity ensures that anything that affects water quality at Riverview will also affect water quality at Colony Farm. Over 80 species of birds, a number of large mammals and bats and have been identified at Riverview. Many raptors and birds of prey are attracted to the diversity of habitat types at Riverview including open meadows, wetlands, and streams. Many species of wildlife spend time at both Colony Farm and Riverview. Landscape changes at Riverview may lead to changes in species diversity and/or number of individuals at Colony Farm.
Significant Features In addition to the many historically important buildings on site, there are several significant landscape features including a natural forested area, Finnie’s Garden, an Arboretum, small streams and wetlands. As awareness increases about the link between access to green space and human health and wellness,
EP 120911 - 108 - especially in our dense urban environments, large natural areas such as those found at Riverview become even more valued. A large intact area of natural forested habitat covers about 1/3 of the Riverview site and provides habitat to many of species of wildlife. This area also provides much needed green space for the surrounding community; contributing to many ecosystem services including clean air and water, local climate mitigation, recreation, and spiritual experiences. There are five streams that traverse Riverview and flow into the Coquitlam River as well as several small wetland complexes on site. These riparian areas provide critical fish and wildlife habitat. Historically, these small channels provided important over wintering habitat for salmon. New channels created through habitat compensation projects aim to restore this function. Finnie’s Garden is an approximately 1 hectare garden started by staff member, Art Finnie, as an early horticultural therapy garden. It is highly valued by visitors to the site and attracts many types of wildlife including owls. The arboretum was started in 1911 by provincial botanist John Davidson. Today there are over 1900 inventoried trees representing 230 varieties from the temperate climates of North America, Europe, Asia Minor, and Africa. This collection is of national significance and in the mid 1990s was valued at over $50 Million.
Heritage Buildings There are many important historic buildings at Riverview of both grand and modest scales. These are inherently valued by the community. If these buildings were left in public ownership and publically accessible, they could contribute to the goals of Metro Vancouver’s Sustainability Academy at Colony Farm. The Sustainability Academy and any community use at Colony Farm will require built facilities and while some of these may need to be close to the programs at the Farm, the availability of these buildings may allow Metro Vancouver to reduce the footprint of built space at Colony Farm.
Viewscapes Colony Farm and Riverview are located in the centre of the Metro region, with over one million people located within a half an hour drive, providing recreational opportunities close to home. Research has demonstrated that various health benefits are derived from access to nature even through views of green space. There are already several viewscapes from Colony Farm that no longer provide this benefit as they primarily exhibit urban development. While the mountains are visible in the distance, the view to Riverview is one of the last immediate views of green space, thereby providing an important service to park users who come to Colony Farm to experience a reprieve from city life.
Conclusion The history of Riverview and Colony Farm is linked together. Metro Vancouver is interested in strengthening those historic links and having Riverview and Colony Farm function together to provide a multitude of benefits to wildlife and regional residents into the future.
EP 120911 - 109 - Appendix #1
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5.6
Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012
To: Environment and Parks Committee
From: Ray Robb, Environmental Regulation and Enforcement Division Manager Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department
Date: August 17, 2012
Subject: Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008 - Staff Appointments
Recommendation:
That the Board, pursuant to the Environmental Management Act and Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008:
a) Appoint the following as Officers: Dennis Klick, Natasha Markovic-Mirovic and Susy Marble; and
b) Appoint Darrell Wakelin as Assistant District Director; and
c) Rescind Silvano Padovan as Assistant District Director and Officer.
1. PURPOSE
To update staff appointments under the Environmental Management Act and Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008.
2. CONTEXT
Metro Vancouver’s Air Quality Regulatory Program supports the goals of the Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan by promoting compliance with air quality management bylaws regulating the discharge of air contaminants. The Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw 1082, 2008 delegates authority upon Board-designated Officers and Assistant District Directors to advance air quality management goals.
Officers may enter property, inspect works, and obtain records and other information to promote compliance with the GVRD Air Quality Management bylaws and the BC Environmental Management Act. The Assistant District Directors have the same powers as the District Director and are appointed to assist the District Director in the administration of the Bylaw.
Recent changes in Metro Vancouver staff have resulted in a need for the Board to update staff appointments pursuant to the Environmental Management Act and Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008. In accordance with
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Section 31 of the Environmental Management Act, Officers and Assistant District Directors must be appointed by the Board.
3. ALTERNATIVES None presented.
4. CONCLUSION
Recent changes in staff have resulted in a need to rescind and appoint new staff under the Environmental Management Act and Greater Vancouver Regional District Air Quality Management Bylaw No. 1082, 2008.
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5.7
Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012 Finance Committee Meeting Date: September 20, 2012
To: Environment and Parks Committee Finance Committee
From: Jason Emmert, Air Quality Planner Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department Ann Rowan, Sustainability Strategist (Acting), CAO’s Office
Date: August 27, 2012
Subject: Implications of the BC Carbon Tax for the Region
Environment and Parks Committee Recommendation:
That the Environment and Parks Committee direct staff to further develop the actions related to the carbon tax as outlined in the Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan, and provide more detailed recommendations to the Province. Those actions include:
· The return of carbon tax revenues to local governments to fund greenhouse gas reduction actions; · Adjustment of the future carbon tax rate, including measures to mitigate the impact on low income households; and · Encourage adoption of the carbon tax in other jurisdictions.
Finance Committee Recommendation:
That the Finance Committee receive for information the report dated August 27, 2012, titled “Implications of the BC Carbon Tax for the Region”.
1. PURPOSE
To report on the revenue implications of the BC Carbon tax on Metro Vancouver residents and businesses, its effectiveness in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and to identify how Metro Vancouver could work with the Province to ensure that the tax achieves its objectives of reducing greenhouse gases.
2. CONTEXT
On July 1st, 2008, the British Columbia government began to levy a carbon tax on the purchase and use of fossil fuels, such as gasoline, diesel, natural gas, heating fuel, propane and coal. The initial tax was $10/tonne of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and was scheduled to rise by $5 increments until 2012. Because the carbon tax is assessed in dollars per tonne of GHG emissions (expressed as carbon dioxide equivalents, or CO2e), the taxation level varies according to the carbon intensity of the individual fossil fuel. As of July 1, 2012 the carbon tax is $30/tonne which translates into 7.2 cents per litre ($2.08 per
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gigajoule) of gasoline, 8.3 cents per litre ($2.15 per gigajoule) of diesel, and $1.50 per gigajoule of natural gas.
The Province is currently reviewing the carbon tax and accepting written submissions from July 1 to August 31, 2012. This issue was discussed at the July 27 Board meeting and the attached letter was sent to the Minister of Finance.
In the Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan (IAQGGMP) Metro Vancouver states its support for improvements to the Carbon Tax that would increase its effectiveness as a disincentive to emit GHGs, mitigate its financial impact on low-income households, and the need to reinvest a portion of the carbon tax revenues in carbon reduction projects.
How does the carbon tax work to reduce GHG emissions? A carbon tax places a ‘price’ on GHG emissions and should encourage users of fossil fuels to switch to fuels with little or no emissions. To be effective, a carbon tax has to meet two conditions: it must be sufficiently high to send a market signal that emissions have a cost and it has to be sustained to encourage the development and adoption of low emission technologies and transportation systems by businesses and residents. A carbon tax is an example of a market-based approach to achieving environmental objectives. Businesses and individuals can reduce the amount of tax they pay by reducing their use of fossil fuels, increasing their energy efficiency, switching to low or zero-emission fuel sources, and/or adopting new technologies that reduce or eliminate emissions. A carbon tax on transportation fuels provides an incentive for commuters to shift to low carbon modes of transportation – such as walking, cycling, carpooling and if it exists, taking transit. A carbon tax should also drive more innovations in the development and marketing of technologies that result in low or no carbon emissions such as hybrid or electric vehicles.
Financial implications of the Carbon Tax: How much was collected from the region? In announcing B.C.’s carbon tax, the provincial government said it would be “revenue neutral” meaning that the revenues generated from the new tax would be offset by decreases in other provincial tax rates. The logic behind a “revenue neutral” tax is that undesirable activities, like those that result in emissions that lead to climate change, are taxed at higher levels while taxes on activities that produce social or environmental benefits, like job creation, are taxed less.
In terms of the financial implications of the carbon tax for Metro Vancouver residents and businesses, the 2010/11 fiscal year was chosen as a case study. The provincial government reports that in 2010/11, $741 million was collected in carbon taxes across the province but does not provide details on the sources of this revenue by geography or sector. Using data on total fuel sales in 2010 in the Metro Vancouver region, staff estimate that residents in the region paid an estimated $120 million while the commercial/industry sector in the region paid an estimated $100 million in carbon taxes1 totaling $220 million. Figure 1 shows a breakdown of the carbon tax by sector and emission source. Based on these estimates, on average, each household in the region paid $133 in personal carbon taxes.2 Since business energy use is highly dependent on the type and size of business, the carbon tax per business cannot be estimated with current data.
1 Estimates of carbon tax paid for the region are based on fuel sales data from the 2010 Community Energy and Emissions Inventory 2 Based on an estimate of 910,800 households in Metro Vancouver in 2010.
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Financial Implications of the Carbon Tax: How much did the region receive in tax cuts and credits? To offset revenues from the Carbon Tax, the provincial government introduced three measures to reduce taxes on personal income and four to reduce business taxes. In terms of personal tax measures, the government reduced personal income tax rates by 5 per cent, introduced a climate action tax credit for low-income households and a northern and rural homeowner benefit. For businesses, there was a cut in the general corporate income tax rate and a corresponding cut in the small business corporate income tax. In addition, industrial property owners received a tax credit for school property taxes paid and lands with “farm” status benefitted from a reduction in school property taxes. The government also announced a one-time Climate Action Dividend of $100 payable to every resident of BC to “encourage the transition to a greener lifestyle.”
According to data provided by the Province the Carbon Tax, as implemented, has been more than revenue neutral.3 While $741 million in carbon tax revenues were collected in the 2010/11 fiscal year, the Province received $846 million less in personal income and business taxes due to associated tax cuts, credits and benefits. In terms of reduced taxes, personal taxes were reduced by $372 million and business taxes were reduced by $475 million.
Figure 1: Carbon Taxes Paid by the Household and Commercial/Industrial Sector in Metro Vancouver (2010)
PERSONAL CARBON TAX
Passenger Vehicles Residential Buildings $80 million $41 million
COMMERCIAL/ INDUSTRIAL CARBON TAX
Commercial Industrial Commercial/Small-Medium Aircraft, Rail, Marine, and Vehicles Natural Gas Non-Road Industrial Buildings $19 million $17 million $33 million $29 million
Coal and Tires $8 million
There is no provincial data available on the geographical distribution on tax cuts and credits so demographic data was used to estimate the personal tax credits returned to the region.
3 “Budget and Fiscal Plan 2012/13-2014/15” http://www.bcbudget.gov.bc.ca/2012/bfp/2012_Budget_Fiscal_Plan.pdf , p. 66
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In the 2010/11 fiscal year, it is estimated that households in Metro Vancouver received $93 million through reductions in the personal income tax rate.4 In addition, Metro Vancouver low income families received tax credits that were estimated at $38 million.5 Together the estimated total reduction in personal taxes in the region was $131 million.6 This is greater than the estimated $120 million residents paid in personal carbon taxes but the financial impact a household would depend on their particular income and household energy use.
Estimating the tax benefits that Metro Vancouver small businesses and industries received under the revenue neutral framework is more difficult. The corporate tax structure, including the distinction between general corporate and small business tax rates, made a detailed analysis unfeasible without more geographically located tax data. However, because Metro Vancouver generates 53% of the B.C.’s GDP, we can reasonably guess that likely over half of the $475 million in business tax cuts and credits, or $238 million, were received by businesses across the Metro Vancouver region.
Environmental Implications of the Carbon Tax: How effective was it in driving down emissions in the region? At this time, there isn’t enough available data to determine the full effectiveness of the carbon tax on driving down regional emissions. The carbon tax has only been in effect for four years, which does not provide enough years of data to analyze the long-term effect of the carbon tax on technological and behavior changes that drive emissions reductions. While the Province’s own review of the carbon tax notes that it is too soon for a definitive assessment of its effectiveness, it nonetheless offers this hopeful note:
“There are positive signs that B.C. is experiencing a shift toward less fossil fuel use and lower emissions while continuing to grow its economy. Emissions in B.C. went down by 4.5 per cent from 2007-2010, while GDP growth through 2011 was above the Canadian average. At the same time B.C. is attracting green investment and green technologies with twice the Canadian average adoption of hybrid vehicles, 20 per cent of all Canadian LEED gold building registrations since 2007, and a 48 per cent increase in clean technology industry sales from 2008-10.”i7
In 2010, Metro Vancouver commissioned a study by MK Jaccard and Associates (MKJA) which assessed the effectiveness of a number of policy measures at reducing GHG emissions. The study modeled the GHG reductions from existing government policies as well as other policy options including a carbon tax. The model predicted that the tax would have limited impact at $30/tonne (see Figure 2) but could play a more important role in reducing the region’s GHG emissions if the rate increased to $50/tonne. In combination with other policies, the carbon tax would support the implementation of technologies and building of infrastructure that would increase options for residents and businesses (e.g. incentives for energy efficiency retrofits for buildings, investment in walking/cycling
4 In 2010, total personal income for Metro Vancouver residents was 45 per cent of the provincial total personal income (BC Stats – Community Facts). This percentage was applied to the Province’s estimate of reduction in personal taxes of $207 million to estimate the impact on Metro Vancouver residents (B. C. Budget and Fiscal Plan 2012/13 to 2014/15). 5 This figure was calculated using data on the incidence of low incomes in Metro Vancouver and Low Income Climate Action Tax Credit rate of $105 per adult and $31.50 per child. The incidence of economic families is 17 per cent and for unattached individuals over 15 years it is 40 per cent in Metro Vancouver. Assuming that in each economic family had 1 child and 2 adults, the total low income tax credit was $24.7 million. 6 The credit for northern and rural homeowner benefit does not apply to residents of Metro Vancouver thus was not considered in the total 7 “Making Progress on BC’s Climate Action Plan”, June 27, 2012 http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/cas/pdfs/2012-Progress-to-Targets.pdf
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infrastructure, plug-in hybrid regulation, etc.) to reduce their fossil fuel use and reduce the carbon tax paid.
Although it is difficult to assess the overall impact of the carbon tax, there are a number of individual GHG reduction projects where the carbon tax helped provide a business case for the project. These projects are an indication of the incentive effect a carbon tax has on supporting the use of low carbon technologies and practices.
One example is the new Bioenergy Energy Research and Demonstration Facility (BRDF) at University of British Columbia (UBC). The project will supply between 12-25% of UBC’s average heat and up to 4.5 per cent of its electricity demand to campus. The project business case was supported by the carbon tax and the carbon neutral requirements for public sector organizations. It will reduce UBC’s GHG emissions by 7,000 tonnes per year which will produce a savings in the carbon taxes paid by $214,000 each year. UBC is also saving $373,000 in carbon tax from converting the steam district energy system to a hot water system. This upgraded system heats over 100 buildings and will reduce GHG emissions by 12,000 tonnes per year. Overall, the system conversion will save UBC $4 million per year in energy and other costs.
Figure 2: Effectiveness Various Policies on Reducing the Region’s GHGs8
12.0 LiveSmart subsidies
Walking/Cycling expansion 10.0 Plug-in hybrid regulation
Transit expansion
8.0 Building etrofit regulation
Cap and trade
6.0 Distance-based insurance
Vehicle emission standard
4.0 Renewable fuel Millions of tonnes of CO2e CO2e Reduction of tonnes of Millions standard
Commercial building retrofit incentive
Building code 2.0 requirements
Carbon tax
Zero emissions 0.0 buildings 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030
Source: MK Jaccard and Associates – 2010.
8 “The Climate Action Plan in Metro Vancouver: Quantifying the Effect of British Columbian Climate Policy on Metro Vancouver’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Other Air Emission.” MK Jaccard and Associates. September 17, 2010.
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How has the carbon tax been invested in greenhouse gas reduction projects in the region? Since the carbon tax is revenue neutral the revenue collected has not been specifically invested in projects to reduce greenhouse gases. Instead, the revenue has been returned to residents and businesses with a larger portion being returned to businesses through the corporate and small business tax credits. Whether these tax savings have been invested in the means to reduce future greenhouse gas emissions is not being tracked.
A small portion of the carbon tax, 0.6 per cent, has been returned to local governments through the Carbon Tax Revenue Incentive Program (CARIP). This is the tax that local governments have paid on fuels purchased directly for government operations. In 2010, Metro Vancouver and its member municipalities received $1.7 million in CARIP rebates which were then allocated to a variety of different projects to reduce emissions from municipal operations and in communities. Metro Vancouver, for example, used CARIP funding to conduct energy assessments for Metro Vancouver housing facilities to identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency at our housing facilities. Several municipalities have used CARIP funds to develop Community Energy and Emissions Plans (CEEP) and some have purchased electric vehicle plug-in stations.
Review of the Carbon Tax The Metro Vancouver Board has recognized that B.C.’s Carbon Tax could be improved to further reduce GHG emissions. This recognition is reflected in the IAQGGMP and in a resolution that went to Union of B.C. Municipalities in 2010. The IAQGGMP identifies the need for the Provincial Government to continue to increase the carbon tax provided:
a) Impacts to low income households are mitigated, b) A portion of the funding is dedicated to a regional climate action funds for greenhouse gas emission reduction projects in the region, and c) Local governments continue to receive CARIP funds.
The revenue neutrality of B.C.’s Carbon Tax was important to build public confidence that the tax would not add an unfair burden to residents and businesses. To date, that promise has been met. One question in moving forward is whether maintaining the strict revenue neutrality of the tax should be maintained or should carbon tax revenues be used to fund initiatives that provide households and businesses the options and tools necessary to reduce their emissions and carbon tax bill? By shifting the carbon tax revenues towards initiatives that directly reduce emissions, the effectiveness of the carbon tax can be enhanced.
Securing a portion of the carbon tax revenues for region-specific GHG reduction programs/projects would help reduce emissions by supporting technology and infrastructure investments by local governments, businesses, residents and other community organizations. This could be achieved by directing a portion of carbon tax revenues to a regional fund.
In order to illustrate the magnitude of the carbon tax paid by the residents and businesses in the region ($220 million) and the size of example GHG reduction projects:
· Installing solar hot water systems on 5,000 rooftops costs $25 million · Building 100 manure methane collection systems for medium-sized dairy operations costs $70 million
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· Lonsdale Energy Corporation District Energy System in City of North Vancouver capital cost was $8 million in 2003 (saves approx 4000 tonnes of GHG / year) 9 · 30 km of separated bike lanes cost $90 million10 · Installing 1000 electric vehicle charging stations in public places costs $10 million · Evergreen Line capital costs are $1.4 billion.
British Columbia demonstrated leadership in adopting a carbon tax and since then numerous other jurisdictions have considered implementing a similar tax and some have done so.11 However, the adoption of the carbon tax has not been as widespread as anticipated especially through the Western Climate Initiative. As a result, businesses based in British Columbia have raised concerns that a carbon tax negatively impacts their competitiveness. This is particularly true for businesses that compete with companies based in jurisdictions who do not have a carbon tax.12 Recognizing in the short term, a carbon tax can present challenges in competitive markets, in the long run the value of putting a tax on carbon today is that it provides an incentive for businesses to become more energy efficient and less reliant on fossil fuels as an energy source in what is generally recognized as a future where the price of fossil fuels will continue to climb.
3. ALTERNATIVES
None presented.
4. CONCLUSION
Based on estimates by staff, residents and businesses in the region have received more in tax credits as a whole then the carbon taxes they paid under the revenue neutral model. Although the overall impact of the carbon tax on regional GHG emissions is difficult to calculate at this time, there are examples in the region where the existence of the carbon tax provided the incentive to undertake projects to reduce GHG emissions. In addition, analysis by the MK Jaccard and Associates indicate that a sustained and higher carbon tax will be important for reducing GHG emissions in the Metro Vancouver region. For these reasons, Metro Vancouver should work with the Province to improve the effectiveness of B.C.’s Carbon Tax and to mitigate some of the challenges.
ATTACHMENT
Letter to Minister Falcon – “Metro Vancouver Response to Carbon Tax Review” dated August 15, 2012 (Doc. #6468359).
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9 http://www.seattle.gov/environment/documents/GBTF_NewBldg_Vancouver_Heating_Case_Study.pdf 10 British Columbia Cycling Coalition- http://bccc.bc.ca/Documents/BCCC-Cycling_Investment_Recommendations.pdf
11 Australia brought in a $23/tonne carbon tax in 2012, Ireland passed a $26/tonne carbon tax in 2010, Switzerland has a $39/tonne (rising to $85/tonne) carbon tax brought in 2008, South Africa will have a $15/tonne carbon tax in 2013 and Quebec has a $3/tonne carbon tax from 2007. Others such as Finland, Sweden, and Norway have had carbon taxes since the early 1990s with rates ranging from $23-$106/tonne. Source: Pembina Institute 12 Responding to this argument, in its most recent budget the Province provided greenhouse vegetable and flower growers a $7.6 million grant to compensate them for the cost of the carbon tax on natural gas and propane consumption. The one-time cash infusion is intended to restore the competitive edge greenhouse growers, the most energy intensive segment of the agri- food sector, lost when the carbon tax was implemented.
EP 120911 - 119 - Office of the Chair Tel, 604 432-6215 Fax 604 451-6614
File: CP-02-02-GHGR-02
The Honourable Kevin Falcon. Minister Minstry of Finance P0 Box 9547 Stn Prov Govt Victoria. 30 V8W 905
Dear Minister Falcon:
Re: Metro Vancouver Response to B.C. Carbon Tax Review
In the context of your government’s review of British Columbia’s Carbon Tax, the Metro Vancouver Board considered a staff report on the carbon tax at its meeting on July 27, 2012. On behalf of the
Board, I am writing to express our support for the carbon tax as approved in Metro Vancouver’s Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan.
This letter constitutes our initial input to your review of B.C.’s Carbon Tax, but we request the Province extend the comment jeriod for 90 days beyond the AuQust 31, 2012 deadline to allow local governments time to conduct a more thorough review of the impact of the carbon tax on the region and conduct more thorough stakeholder consultation. We also request the Province consult with Metro Vancouver and its member municipalities on any significant changes to the carbon tax subsequent to this current consultation period.
British Columbia demonstrated leadership on the world stage by adopting a tax that places a price on emissions of greenhouse gases. The Board of Metro Vancouver has expressed its support for a carbon tax that willhelp achieve regional sustainability goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as articulated in two of our regional management plans.
One of the three goals of Metro Vancouver’s Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan (2011) is to “minimize the region’s contribution to global climate change”. The strategies and actions to achieve that goal are reinforced in Metro Vancouver’s Regional Growth Strategy (2011). Metro Vancouver’s targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the region are:
• 15°c below 2007 levels by 2015; • 33% below 2007 levels by 2020; and • 80°c below 2007 levels by 2050.
The Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan articulates Metro Vancouver’s support for a continuation of the carbon tax and it also identifies how the tax could be refined. Specifically, Metro Vancouver has requested that the Provincial Government:
p5388838
EP 120911 - 120 - Letter to Minister Falcon Metro Vancouver Response to B.C. Carbon Tax Review Page2of2
• earmark a portion of the carbon tax revenues and other funding sources for local government actions that will reduce community emissions; and • continue to increase the carbon tax provided that: a) impacts to low income households are mitigated, b) a portion of the funding is dedicated to a regional climate action fund for greenhouse gas emission reduction projects in the region, and c) local governments continue to receive CARIP funds.
Support for these actions was highlighted in a resolution Metro Vancouver put before the Union of B.C. Municipalities in 2010 (see Attachment). This resolution, requesting that the Province provide local governments with their per capita share of carbon tax revenues, was endorsed by the U8CM. As a region that is home to 52 per cent of the province’s population and where economic activity amounts to 53 per cent of the provincial GDP, the Metro Vancouver Board requests that the Province conduct more thorough consultation on this issue, including with Metro Vancouver and its member municigalities, prior to making any significant changes to the B.C. Carbon Tax.
We look forward to working with the Province to further improve the B.C. Carbon Tax, enhancing our collective efforts to contribute to a more stable climate.
Yours truly,
Chair,Gr Metro Vancouver Board GM/GR/ar cc: MinisterTerry Lake
End: Letterfrom Delia Laglagaron to Reiko Tagami, Unionof B.C.Municipalitiesregarding “Metro Vancouver Board Resolutions to Unionof BritishColumbia Municipalities”,dated June 30, 2010
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ResolutIon 1: Provincial Actions to Enable Local and Regional Governments to Maximize Reductions in Gteenhouse Gas Emissions
VJHEREAS‘mmber munic ai ft s In Me noVan‘tuvcn have nade stoady progrc to rn-rn’Inn recuroments cf the Local Coven “er tAm to rstabu’h greenhouse gas reduction (argUs 00 cies, and actlcrs iT’offic’aI commta.tt p’ans, ANDv:HEREAS f.,rtr,er legsbt’ve a’t f’s:a’ act ons b t:e provinca’ ‘aDverrment are r.etessar/ to enabIe 1bce and reg:onal govarmer: act’ens to maxmze redtctinns1 in roonPouse ys amssr3 !n tha bj:I:n’s :‘ancponactn jrc sc.’ waste se:tots:
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F•esoiutio•n passed by the Metro Vancouver Board Ofl May 12, 2010:
Th.at the Board: advISe the Provinctai i:1iolstnor of on vcroorrton atro Comm unity and Rural Ce v:F turf:
- a ‘r a ie L.ooa Cu,’OOn’iOr’T ACt ra unfaIr/tsr: Pr( ronuuos aas re000ton Taruts. pr/rrzr’n
CC5-t’ aun Thuno unne” and r:roic::ai yoveromeut actions to OaXrn/Ze reoucuons to preennouse uas e!”i55tun5 sucO as:
(H en the bu:;ooos sector. • aLv:uac The n:odornuraron or the BC Buildinq CooS. ano • ricrease :ocentives and regulations icr residentid;! and corntnuruiel hui/diq ret uT/tIc,
(d :0 the transoortatiun sectOr, • enable the rca/on and member rr:tinlrtV9I’/tieS afld shatter tocal aurrioritees to :rnptement cOmVrErnerTSiye tu3nsnOrfatlofl oernand oianeaetnent measures. • coordinate current pro ymca! arc enho.:se ras enriss’ons standards tor !rr;tirourv vehicles yntt; new ten/oral stanuarus. ann, • increase fundeng for susta:nabie transportation infrastructure and The Scrap-it Program:
(Hi)in the soled waste’ sector, accelerating legislative 75 ores to reduce waste arid Cr gtr,q cnassio mm>pron r’ fcc 7ctes and extended aroducer responsunlttj ache aria, 7 Cv) establishing stande:rd tools, assumpHdns da:ia, and .fbrecasting methods so That tone! and regional tirrgcts. policies, and actions are coordinated.
• recuesi tire Bcard’ Chair to. send a letter to:the Ministries, outtining initiatives taken by tonal gove:rnments in tire bo:iidings.. transpartation, solid isaste an:d other sectors to-data anrf rea:fti’rmihg the need’ to ha:ve provihciai assistance id theSe sectors.
• direct s.taff to send a copy of the corresponde nce . to municipal councilS and sli’nilar local authorities in the Lower Mainiand,
EP 120911 - 124 -
5.8
Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012
To: Environment and Parks Committee
From: Gaëtan Royer, Manager Metropolitan Planning, Environment and Parks Department
Date: August 7, 2012
Subject: Manager’s Report
Recommendation:
That the Environment and Parks Committee receive for information the report dated August 7, 2012, titled “Manager’s Report”.
Environment and Parks Committee 2012 Workplan The Attachment to this report sets out the Committee’s Workplan for 2012. The matrix is updated to include new issues that arise, items requested by the Committee, and changes in the schedule. Items highlighted in bold identify completed work program elements.
Picken House – Response to Proposal by Catching the Spirit Youth Society Staff are reviewing the arrangement proposed by the Catching the Spirit Youth Society (CTS) delegation’s for use of the Picken House at Burnaby Lake Regional Park, which was received at the Committee’s June 6 meeting. The Picken House is a vacant building located on “Old” Cariboo Road in the City of Burnaby, on the eastern edge of Burnaby Lake Regional Park. Built in 1929, it is listed on the City of Burnaby’s Community Heritage Register. Metro Vancouver acquired the house in 1993 on the basis of its landmark stature and with the intent to adaptively re-use the building for a suitable park use. The submission meets the requirements that were spelled out in previous calls for proposals. What is proposed is similar to the arrangement in place for the use of the Cammidge House, in Boundary Bay Regional Park where Metro Vancouver benefits from the support of three main community groups who in return are given access to the facility. Staff are therefore considering an arrangement similar to what is in place for the Cammidge House Committee, Lions Club and Delta Naturalists.
EP 120911 - 125 - Manager’s Report Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012 Page 2 of 5
Special Park Districts Forum The Special Park Districts Forum (SPDF) is an annual gathering of representatives from special park districts throughout North America. Participants tour the host agency's facilities, discuss hot topics, and share the successes and challenges of managing regional park systems. Select representatives from Metro Vancouver attended this year’s forum hosted by the Three Rivers Park District in Minnesota. Highlights were rafting on the mighty Mississippi, biking the Dakota Rail Trail, and exploring topics such as resource management and engaging youth in environmental stewardship. The already palpable enthusiasm for attending next year’s forum was heightened by an official invitation presented by co-hosts Metro Vancouver and the Capitol Regional District at the closing banquet.
Planning is well underway for next year’s SPDF which will be held in June 2013. The SPDF 2013 website is now live and will be updated with activity and program information. Visit www.spdf2013.com to view the promotional video. Visitors will be able to find up-to-date information on accommodation and travel options as well as the itinerary. Tours and events are being explored and will be finalized this fall with registration opening January 2013.
Encroachment Resolved at Kanaka Creek Regional Park Parks can be vulnerable to encroachments from neighboring properties particularly along inaccessible river corridors such as Kanaka Creek Regional Park. This may include illegal dumping of garden waste, land clearing and occupation with vehicles, landscaping, and play equipment; at times structures such as sheds or garages are installed.
Recently the Parks, Properties and Legal departments collaborated to create a cease and desist and mitigation notice for a landowner backing onto Kanaka Creek who had been asked to voluntarily remove the intrusions into the park without success. After being served the letter the parkland was vacated and will now will be fenced by Metro Vancouver and planted with native trees and shrubs to create productive wildlife habitat and deter future encroachment.
Status of South Carvolth School, Campbell Valley Regional Park Metro Vancouver acquired the decommissioned South Carvolth Elementary School property and building in 2010. A referral from the Langley School Board led to a short-term (11 month) commercial lease to the Radicalus Montessori Society for a school and daycare program called Roots and Wings. This tenant has been extended for another term ending on July 31, 2013. Regulatory bodies have permitted this occupancy under pre-existing requirements due to the short duration but Metro Vancouver will hook up to municipal water this year to meet modern drinking water standards.
Staff were directed by the Board (November 2009) to test options for the school building and bring back recommendations for longer term uses or demolition. Thus a “Request for Expression of Interest and Statements of Qualifications” for use of the site will be issued in late August. Findings will be discussed with the Committee later this year.
Matsqui Trail Management Plan Update Outreach and fine-tuning of the draft Matsqui Trail Management Plan Framework and Program has been ongoing with recent presentations and dialogue with the Abbotsford Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission, Abbotsford Soil Conservation Association, First Nations, and agencies. On August 13 the draft Management Plan was presented to Abbotsford City Council where it received unanimous approval in principle.
EP 120911 - 126 - Manager’s Report Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012 Page 3 of 5
While there is much general public support for the plan, questions have been raised about traffic on rural roads, preserving agricultural land and interests, erosion protection and remediation, and the boat launch. The boat launch generally has good support but its ultimate feasibility is affected by land tenure challenges, First Nation traditional fishery interfaces, access, cost and potential for partnerships.
The recommended Plan will be submitted to the Environment and Parks Committee and Board in October 2012.
Aldergrove Lake Regional Park - Management Plan Activities A public Open House to test concepts arising from the draft Framework and Program, approved by the Committee in July, 2012, will be held 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, September 25, at the Aldergrove Kinsmen Centre.
A presentation on the emerging plan was provided to the Aldergrove Rotary Club and discussions about the involvement of the Langley Rotary Club in a park project are underway.
In addition, a proposal for wetland restoration in the southwest corner of the park has been received from the Vancouver Aquarium. Expanding wetlands in this location is supported in the draft Framework and Program. The Aquarium has received a research permit from Metro Vancouver to undertake soil testing in two potential sites. If the conditions prove feasible, the Aquarium would enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with Metro Vancouver to facilitate construction of a 1-2 ha wetland next summer, providing habitat for the Oregon Spotted Frog, a Species at Risk, and other amphibians. It would complement the existing constructed wetlands off Pepin Brook and expand education, interpretation and research opportunities. Funding of $75,000 would be from the Aquarium’s funding partner, Earth Rangers. Approval to implement the work would be subject to Committee and Board adoption of the Park Management Plan this winter.
Park Partnership Leverages Matching $50,000 Grant Pacific Parklands Foundation (PPF) was formed in 2000 and as the foundation for Metro Vancouver’s regional parks actively raises funds to expand and improve the regional parks, reserves and greenways, and ecological conservancy areas for today and for future generations. During the past 12 years, the foundation has raised nearly 4.5 million dollars and partnered with more than 300 companies, organizations and individuals to support over 80 different projects and programs. Some of the most successful programs and projects are those that have leveraged thousands of dollars of matching funds, in-kind resources and volunteer services. Such is the case with the Kanaka Creek Watershed Stewardship Centre project – the first major capital campaign that the foundation has undertaken. Partnering with the Kanaka Education and Environmental Partnership Society, one of Metro Vancouver’s long standing Park Partners. PPF and KEEPS have worked together to raise $50,000 towards the cost of replacing the 30 year old Bell-Irving Hatchery in Kanaka Creek Regional Park, which has in turn leveraged a further $50,000 grant from the Pacific Salmon Foundation.
Meteor Shower Watch – Aldergrove Regional Park Saturday, August 11, 8 – 11 pm with overnight camping until 10:00 am Sunday
Metro Vancouver teamed up with the Royal Astronomical Society, Science World, Tim Hortons, A-Star Art Parlour and volunteers to put on a night of science education combined with visual and performing arts, attracting 1,000 people, with over 110 camping units.
EP 120911 - 127 - Manager’s Report Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012 Page 4 of 5
Event activities included: fireside sing-alongs, black-light theatre about Perseid, star gazing through telescopes; science experiments about forces of the universe (physics); crafts, face-painting, lantern lit star-walk, camping, astronomy lectures and free Tim Horton treats.
About the 1,000 participants: · 68% adults; 32% children · 83% had not been to the event before · 65% was first visit to Aldergrove Regional Park · 95% of the respondents would likely return · Regional draw: 21% Langley; 17% Abbotsford; 14.5% Surrey; 12% Vancouver; 8 % Burnaby; 7.5% Tri-cities; 6% White Rock; 4% Delta; 3.5% New Westminster; 2% Richmond; 1% North Vancouver & 3.5% Out of Town. · Appeal: 21% family outing; 20% sounded like fun; 18% astronomy; 11% camping; 11% curiosity; 6% low cost/free; 3% close to home; 2% regular park user; and 8% other.
Over 110 camping units (100 tents and 10 trailers) were set up overnight.
Experience the Fraser Presentation at UBCM Staff submitted an application to UBCM for Metro Vancouver and FVRD to hold a workshop on ETF at the forthcoming conference. UBCM received a large number of applications and our proposal was not accepted.
Staff will continue to look for opportunities to provide exposure for ETF and build support among decision-makers and the general public.
Community Charging Infrastructure Fund - Charging Stations Application Results In June, Metro Vancouver submitted applications to the Provincial Community Charging Infrastructure Fund for funds to support planning and implementation of electric vehicle charging stations in our region.
We were awarded $75,000 to conduct regional planning to identify sites for 75-150 publically-accessible charging stations at public and private locations throughout the region. Staff are developing GIS maps that identify key opportunities across the region, which a consultant will use as a starting point to recruit prospective hosts.
We were also awarded $32,000 for 8 charging stations on Metro Vancouver properties. These will be located at the public parking lots at Pacific Spirit Regional Park, Capilano River Regional Park, Boundary Bay Regional Park and Tynehead Regional Park. Staff are currently seeking quotes for equipment and installation.
Development of a Regional Climate Action Fund In June 2012, the committee received a presentation from the City of Vancouver on the Greenest City Fund, which is the first local government grant program in the region to promote actions related to climate and energy. The $2 million Fund was seeded with $1 million contributions each from the City of Vancouver and the Vancouver Foundation. The Vancouver Foundation administers the Fund.
The Integrated Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management Plan, adopted in 2011, contains an action to “explore the establishment of a regional climate action fund dedicated to funding a range of measures that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy
EP 120911 - 128 - Manager’s Report Environment and Parks Committee Meeting Date: September 11, 2012 Page 5 of 5
consumption”. Using the City of Vancouver fund as a possible model, Metro Vancouver staff are currently consulting with prospective partners (foundations, philanthropists, senior governments and others) to explore the joint establishment of a regional climate action fund. Staff will return to this committee to provide progress updates and to seek direction on proposals related to the establishment of such a fund.
Air Quality Advisory Issued in August 2012 Air quality advisories are issued when air quality is degraded and people may be exposed to elevated air pollution levels in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. Advisories are issued by Metro Vancouver, in cooperation with the Fraser Valley Regional District, BC government and Environment Canada.
From August 17th to 18th, an air quality advisory was in effect for the eastern parts of Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley because concentrations of ground-level ozone exceeded the one-hour and eight-hour air quality objectives. The advisory was initiated at 1:00 pm on Friday August 17th after several days of hot and sunny weather, which favours the formation of ozone in the airshed. Several stations in the air quality monitoring network measured ozone concentrations equal to or higher than objectives during the afternoon and evening of August 17th, including Maple Ridge, Langley, Chilliwack, Abbotsford, Surrey East and Burnaby Mountain.
Peak ground-level ozone concentrations improved by the afternoon of Saturday August 18th and the advisory was lifted at 4:00 pm on August 18th. This was the first air quality advisory since the summer of 2010 (due to particulate levels from forest fire activity outside of the airshed), and the first to be triggered by ground-level ozone concentrations since 2009.
Notification as well as media coverage of the advisory was enhanced by the use of social media in addition to traditional methods. The advisory circulated through television, radio, web, Facebook, microblog (Twitter) and print sources.
ATTACHMENT
Environment and Parks Committee – 2012 Workplan (Doc. #6412915).
6412921
EP 120911 - 129 - 5.8 ATTACHMENT
Environment and Parks Committee 2012 Workplan
1st Quarter
Key priorities
· 2012 Committee orientation. · Develop Committee Terms of Reference. · Complete park sensitivity zoning mapping (condition and species at risk assessments). · Implement salmon habitat enhancement at Acadia Creek. · Fully implement the Non-Road Diesel Engine Emissions Regulation. · Assess and respond to Parks Canada National Parks Reserve feasibility study for Crippen Regional Park. · Implement “no smoking policy’ in Regional Parks, effective January 1, 2012.
2nd Quarter
Key priorities
· 2012 Committee visioning workshop and development of work plan. · Launch new publicly accessible annual “state of the air” report. · Support consultation process for proposed new waste-to-energy capacity. · Advance Sumas Mountain Regional Park. · Secure new provincial funding ($1 million) for Experience the Fraser and sign Memorandum of Understanding. · Complete remaining classes for sensitive ecosystem inventory and analysis as part of development of Green Infrastructure Network (GIN); protection of wetlands and parks sensitivity zoning. · Complete a survey and analysis of regional outdoor recreational opportunities and identify gaps. · Complete the design of the Kanaka Creek Hatchery and initiate fundraising. · Expand mapping for the iParks Navigator “app” to include municipal content. · Adopt new park land acquisition priorities and framework. · Initiate process for prohibiting residential wood smoke in urban areas.
Note: Bold – completed items
EP 120911 - 130 -
3rd Quarter
Key priorities
· Add two new air quality monitoring stations in the Fraser Valley Regional District. · Report and funding request for habitat enhancement work in the Lower Brunette River. · Adopt a Regional Parks Master Plan Framework. · Adopt Experience the Fraser Concept Plan and identify governance, partnerships and sustainable funding model. · Adopt Matsqui Trail Park Management Plan. · Complete an inventory of disturbed and developable lands within the regional parks. · Increase youth engagement with Metro Vancouver priorities through a broad range of activities including K-12 curriculum development and teaching resources; and interpretative, educational and special programming in regional parks and watersheds.
4th Quarter
Key priorities
· 2013 Program and Priorities. · Integrate sensitive ecosystem inventory information into land acquisition process. · Develop best management practices for trail placement, construction and maintenance for Regional Parks (context sensitivity zoning). · Design the Matsqui Trail Regional Park Mission Bridge Recreation Hub. · Complete Aldergrove Regional Park Management Plan Concept. · Work with other levels of government to complete design of the AirCare program beyond 2012, including enhanced focus on heavy duty trucks. · Complete pilot program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from small- and medium- sized enterprises and provide recommendations for future program. · Propose an Organics Management Odour Control Air Emissions Regulation. · Undertake consultation on a Metro Vancouver Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation. · Propose a Printers Volatile Organic Compounds Emission Control Regulation. · Complete public engagement process for Colony Farm sustainability plan. · Make a decision about an incubator farm and other related measures at Colony Farm Regional Park. · Assess replacement strategies for redevelopment of Camp Capilano. · Progress report on the preliminary Regional Green Infrastructure Network and proposed integration with Parks Master Plan, regional and municipal plans · Status report on Ecological Health Action Plan.
6412915
EP 120911 - 131 -
6.1
Note: This page links to the Metro Vancouver website. Events may have been updated since this page was created.
EP 120911 - 132 -
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EP 120911 - 134 EP 120911
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net H9 EP 120911 - 135 - EP 120911 - 136 - EP 120911 - 137 - EP 120911 - 138 - EP 120911 - 139 - EP 120911 - 140 - EP 120911 - 141 - EP 120911 - 142 - EP 120911 - 143 - EP 120911 - 144 - EP 120911 - 145 - EP 120911 - 146 -
6.8
Utilities Committee Meeting Date: July 11, 2012
To: Utilities Committee
From: Jeff Carmichael, Division Manager, Utility Research & Innovation Genevieve Tokgoz, Project Engineer, Utility Research & Innovation
Date: June 28, 2012
Subject: Interim Strategy for Addressing Sewage Heat Opportunities
Recommendation:
That the GVS&DD Board approve the Interim Strategy and direct staff to develop a long-term sewage heat policy framework, as outlined in the report dated June 28, 2012, titled “Interim Strategy for Addressing Sewage Heat Opportunities”.
1. PURPOSE
To request that the Board direct staff to develop a long-term sewage heat policy framework in consultation with municipalities, and to seek approval to use the Interim Strategy, as described in this report, to prevent near-term opportunities from being missed while the long-term policy framework is developed. The Interim Strategy will enable implementation of demonstration sewage heat recovery projects. It has been endorsed by the Regional Engineers Advisory Committee (REAC).
2. CONTEXT
Over the past few years and with increasing frequency, member municipalities and the private sector have expressed interest in using sewage heat from Metro Vancouver sewers for district energy systems (DES). Although Europe and Asia have been using sewage heat as a source for DES, the only known system currently in operation in North America is the Neighbourhood Energy Utility in Southeast False Creek in the City of Vancouver. Although local understanding of technical and governance issues associated with sewer heat extraction is limited, project results and preliminary evaluation indicate that sewage heat recovery can be both financially and technically viable. A limited number of demonstration projects will assist in understanding the system better while not adversely affecting the Metro Vancouver sewer system (see Attachment 1).
Technical issues that need be further explored include the capabilities and limitations of sewage heat recovery technologies, assessment of the seasonal variability of energy content of sewage, and the impacts of multiple sewage heat extraction projects on wastewater treatment plant processes. Governance-related issues include ownership and transfer of heat rights and the need for cooperative rules for coordinating requests for use of sewage for such projects.
It is expected that interest in sewage heat recovery projects will continue to grow in the region and that, as potential projects emerge, these impacts will need to be fully identified and
EP 120911 - 147 - evaluated in order to confirm viability and to allow project implementation. The proposed long- term approach to examine these impacts is to complete research, modeling and analysis and to work with internal and external groups to create a long-term policy framework.
In the short-term, however, a strategy to address current sewage heat opportunities is needed to enable near-term viable opportunities. The proposed Interim Strategy, which has been endorsed by REAC, enables sewage heat recovery projects that do not impair sewage operations by allowing access to sewage at a nominal charge so that heat can be recovered. The Interim Strategy does not propose that Metro Vancouver seek out opportunities to own and operate sewage heat recovery systems, rather it is a responsive approach that authorizes sewage diversion for such opportunities as they are presented. Each interim opportunity would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis while a long-term sewage heat policy framework is developed.
Why is an Interim Strategy necessary?
Ø Growing interest in sewage heat projects Interest in using heat extracted from raw sewage in Metro Vancouver is growing rapidly, driven by interest in environmental improvements associated with green energy. Interest ranges from general inquiries regarding Metro Vancouver’s intent to enable access to sewage for sewage heat recovery to formal requests from municipalities and developers interested in tying into Metro Vancouver’s sewer mains to access sewage flow in DES projects. Currently, no policy framework or approval criteria exist for allocating sewage heat for such projects.
Ø To support viable current opportunities Metro Vancouver is aware of four proposed developments in the region where DES using sewage heat is currently being considered. Pre-feasibility studies initiated by member municipalities and developers have identified sewage heat as a potentially viable source of energy. Metro Vancouver’s involvement to date has been primarily as the source of data on sewage flows and temperature (both parameters are needed to evaluate energy capacity of sewage). Implementation of any of these projects will require support and approval from Metro Vancouver. The Interim Strategy, outlined below, can be used to evaluate the feasibility of enabling access to sewage at these sites.
Ø Avoid missing more viable opportunities Some developers have indicated that although their DES pre-feasibility studies have concluded that sewage heat is a financially viable option, concerns that Metro Vancouver lacks a process to enable access has resulted in elimination of sewage heat as an option. The proposed Interim Strategy intends to provide clear messaging on Metro Vancouver’s intent to work to enable access to sewage for heat recovery purposes, as long as criteria are met.
Ø There is municipal support for the Interim Strategy and long-term sewage heat policy Consultation with Municipal staff, Metro Vancouver staff and with REAC and the REAC Liquid Waste and Climate Change Committees has taken place. All parties have endorsed the Interim Strategy, and have expressed interest in a long-term policy framework to address further technical implications and to set up governance and process frameworks.
Ø Sewage heat recovery aligns with Metro Vancouver and municipal goals The implementation of sewage heat systems to supply energy could significantly contribute to Metro Vancouver’s SRI Framework energy and greenhouse gas reduction targets. Sewage heat recovery contributes to meeting Goal 2 of the Integrated Liquid Waste and
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EP 120911 - 148 - Resource management Plan of using liquid waste as a resource and also supports municipal district energy goals and strategies such as the City of Richmond’s Climate Prepared City 2020 Goal and the City of Vancouver’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction targets in the Greenest City Action Plan.
Proposed Interim Strategy
The Interim Strategy provides clear direction on Metro Vancouver’s intent to enable access to sewage heat while a long-term policy framework is developed. Metro Vancouver will support and enable requests for access to sewage for demonstration sewage heat recovery projects on a case-by-case basis evaluation, using the following requirements for approval:
· Any agreement allowing access to sewage for heat recovery must be set up directly between Metro Vancouver and the municipality · Economic and technical viability must be proven by a feasibility study · Approval for tie-ins only: Metro Vancouver will not consider owning sewage heat recovery systems until a long-term policy framework has been developed and ownership models have been fully evaluated. · Financial arrangement will be based on benefits, value and cost recovery for the tie-in · Owners/operators of sewage heat recovery system will incur most of the costs · Metro Vancouver will retain greenhouse gas offsets for projects as determined on a case-by-case basis · System operations and wastewater treatment plant requirements are met and risks are managed
Each contract between Metro Vancouver and a member municipality will address issues including sewage flows, state of sewage and cost recovery plus nominal charges based on the near-term value of sewage. Agreement terms will be set to ensure financial viability of projects. Agreement renewals will take place according to the terms of the long-term policy framework.
Long-term Sewage Heat Policy Framework
A long-term policy framework is needed to address further technical implications and to set up governance and process frameworks. While some technical analysis has already taken place, more is needed. Sewage management is shared between Metro Vancouver and its municipalities, but ownership and transfer of heat rights and associated greenhouse gas reductions are currently unclear. These and other issues, such as liabilities and rate setting, must be resolved. This will require input from Metro’s municipal Sewerage and Drainage District members.
3. ALTERNATIVES
The Board may: a) approve the Interim Strategy for Addressing Sewage Heat Opportunities and direct staff to develop a long-term sewage heat policy framework, or b) direct staff to develop a long-term sewage heat policy framework, without approval of the Interim Strategy, or c) provide an alternative recommendation.
Alternative a) is recommended.
EP 120911 - 149 -
4. CONCLUSION
The Interim Strategy is needed to allow Metro Vancouver to enable sewage heat opportunities while a long-term policy framework is being developed. The Interim Strategy has been endorsed by REAC and will prevent missing near-term opportunities that comply with Metro Vancouver criteria. The long-term policy framework will be developed in consultation with Metro Vancouver’s municipal Sewerage and Drainage District members.
ATTACHMENT: Preliminary Heat Capacity Analysis Using Sewage Heat Model (6283232)
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EP 120911 - 150 - 6.8 ATTACHMENT Preliminary Heat Capacity Analysis Using Sewage Heat Model
The proposed Interim Strategy is based on preliminary heat capacity analysis that indicates that sewage heat is likely not a scarce resource in the Metro Vancouver system and that cumulative impacts on future downstream projects and the impact at Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTP) need not be significant, especially in the near-term. In fact there appears to be significant excess sewage heat, enough to supply tens of thousands of homes with heating in the region.
Preliminary review
Preliminary review of energy capacity using the sewage heat model indicates that there is enough energy available to provide heating, cooling, and domestic hot water to thousands of homes without changing the influent temperatures at WWTPs by more than 1 or 2 degrees Celsius. Figure 1 below illustrates the marginal impact from extracting heat upstream of Annacis Island WWTP. The graph depicts the impact of extracting 9 MW of heat (equivalent of approximately three South East False Creek sewage heat recovery plants) on Annacis Island WWTP influent temperature. On average, the change in influent temperature from extracting 9 MW of heat upstream is 0.3 degrees Celsius. This small change in temperature can be managed by WWTPs which currently handle temperature swings of more than 10 degrees Celsius between winter and summer seasons. Note that flow characteristics and volumes for each WWTP catchment differ. The full energy capacity study will take this into consideration.
Figure 1. Annacis Island WWTP Modeled Influent Temperature
20
15
10
5 Influent Temperature Influent [deg Celsius]
0 D A J O With upstream 9MW sewage heat extracted With no upstream sewage heat extracted Assumed minimum business-as-usual influent temperature
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EP 120911 - 151 -
Sewage Heat Model
Over the past few years, Metro Vancouver has received requests for information from external parties interested in installing sewage heat recovery (SHR) systems in Metro Vancouver’s sewage collection system. To date a system-wide analysis of heat availability in the sewage collection system has not been undertaken; thus, the heat available for extraction and the downstream impacts from additional heat loads are not fully understood. Work on developing a sewage heat model was initiated in 2011. The model will help evaluate the impacts of potential SHR projects on the sewage collection and treatment system.
Model function
The platform for the sewage heat model is Microsoft Excel and uses Visual Basic programming. The model inputs sewage flow and temperature data and will be capable of:
· Assessing cumulative impacts of multiple SHR projects in each of the five sewage collection catchments on downstream sewage temperatures (temperature is related to energy) · Showing seasonal variation in energy capacity · Identifying areas in the sewage collection system with highest energy capacity (based on current and future flow projections) · Providing outputs that can be used in pre-feasibility and scoping of SHR projects
The model includes all of Metro Vancouver’s sewer lines, pump stations and WWTPs. Control buttons, placed over pump stations and WWTPs will prompt the user to input hypothetical loads (representing future district energy systems and SHR projects). The model will compute downstream changes in sewage temperature based on the load. As the model is developed further, capabilities such as adding municipal trunk lines can be considered. Since the accuracy of the model is based on the quality of input data, collection of real sewage temperature data was identified as a key next step in improving the model. The model is still in the development phase and next phases of development will include calibration.
Data collection program
Sewage flow data was compiled by the Utility Analysis Division in Utility Planning and the Flow Monitoring Division in Operations & Maintenance. The model uses measured average dry weather flow in the calculation of energy capacity.
Some sewage temperature data was available from one-off studies and the WWTPs. However, to complete a system-wide energy capacity study, a full year’s worth of temperature data that captures the seasonal variation in flow and temperatures is required. To address this data gap a temperature sensor installation program was implemented in the summer of 2011 to collect sewage temperature data over a full year at approximately 20 locations throughout the sewage collection system.
6283232
EP 120911 - 152 - 6.9
Juvenile arthritis camp changing lives in North Vancouver By Brent Richter, North Shore News July 26, 2012 Photograph by: NEWS photo, Kevin Hill
Andrea McGowan, 19, is all smiles as a camp counsellor at the juvenile arthritis camp she came to as a kid. It is the only place like it in Canada for children with juvenile arthritis, lupus, Wagner’s disease and juvenile dermatomyositis to meet and play.
Fitting in at summer camp is difficult enough. Imagine the challenge of doing it with a rare disease that only a handful of kids in the province truly understand.
One North Vancouver camp has been designed to tackle that challenge head-on. Every summer, kids diagnosed with juvenile arthritis, lupus, Wagner’s disease and juvenile dermatomyositis come to Camp Capilano for three-and-a-half days of fun tailored to their needs.
Now in its 30th year, things have come full circle. Kids who originally came as campers are now helping to run the show.
For 19-year-old Andrea McGowan, it is the least she can do to say “thank you” for the life- changing experience she had coming to the camp as a youngster.
“This place helped me so much as a kid that I’m happy to give back and help the kids now. I remember my old counselors,” she said. “I’m just very excited to help kids now and hopefully be around and watch them get better. It’s been really rewarding to give back.”
McGowan first came to the camp when she was 10, having lived with juvenile arthritis since she was two years old. Attending the camp that year and in the years that followed gave her a chance for the first time to meet other kids with the same illness. Some of those fellow campers have become life-long friends.
“Physically, (the disease) challenges you, and it makes you a little bit different, so here is where everyone is pretty much the same, and these are the people who are the closest to understanding what we’re going through,” she said.
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EP 120911 - 153 - That doesn’t mean the kids prefer to sit still. From an outsider’s perspective, Camp Capilano looks like any other kids’ camp. This year, participants have been dragon boating, playing volleyball, rock climbing, playing laser tag and doing aerobics. The difference is the quiet patience the kids and counselors have with each other.
“We all set our own paces. If I need to slow down, these people don’t ask me why, and they don’t think it’s any different. If I’m limping, they think it’s regular,” McGowan said. “They make it very easy for us to do whatever we like. They’re very accommodating. It’s a very individual-focused camp.”
The camp has an educational component as well, encouraging kids to learn about their own and other childhood diseases. A favourite activity each year is a Jeopardy-style trivia night in the dorm.
“It’s anything from sports teams to medicine names,” McGowan said.
Watching a new crop of kids come in, McGown said she sees the invaluable experiences she had on her first camping trip playing out again for a new generation.
“A few are homesick, but most of them just love it. I think they are finding it so surprising that we all have so many similarities, and we understand what joint pain means when we’re stiff in the mornings. We all know that arthritis isn’t just an old-person disease,” she said. “A lot of these kids have just been diagnosed. One little girl here was just diagnosed a couple months ago, and she’s still adjusting to it, so this will be great for her.”
The camp is funded entirely by the Arthritis Society. It is the only camp of it’s kind in Canada, according to organizers. [email protected]
© Copyright (c) North Shore News
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EP 120911 - 154 - BRITISH COLUMBIA STATE OF THE AIR
ebrating the Clean A 2012 l ir Ce Month of June
FOREWORD CONTENTS We are especially thrilled to present the 2012 State of the Air Report. This year, we have not one but two Clean Air Champi- 2 Triumph Over ons: the Prince George Air Improvement Roundtable (PGAIR) Adversity: Jeff Symonds and Dana Schmidt. While PGAIR has done a lot over the years and Andrea Burk to protect and ensure clean air quality for the community of Asthma and the Prince George, Dana Schmidt founded the Donna Schmidt Me- 3 Environment morial Lung Cancer Prevention Society three years ago to edu- What is in the Air cate Castlegar’s residents on the dangers and health effects of 5 We Breathe? radon exposure in homes. Pollution Levels: How In this issue, we also profile two very special individuals: tri- does B.C. Measure Up? athlete Jeff Symonds and rugby player Andrea Burk. Though Emerging Issue: competing in two different sports, Jeff and Andrea battle the 7 Reducing Exposure same illness: asthma. Their stories of courage and determina- to Traffic Emissions tion should inspire and remind others living with asthma that it Emerging Issue: is possible to stay active and to succeed. 8 Ultrafine Particles
Like in previous years, we provide updates on air quality, air Clean Air Champions: pollution levels in B.C. compared to other parts of Canada, and 10 The Prince George the clean air initiatives that agencies at various levels of gov- Air Improvement ernment are undertaking. We also turn our attention on two Roundtable & emerging issues—ultrafine particles and traffic-related air pol- Donna Schmidt lution—and report on our 9th Annual Air Quality and Health Memorial Lung Cancer Workshop held last March. Prevention Society Preparing a report such as this takes a lot of time and energy, 11 Radon: Threats, and I thank everyone who tirelessly worked to get it done. Challenges & Actions Trends: Air Pollution 12 in B.C. through the Years
13 National Comparison SCOTT MCDONALD News from President and CEO 14 Partner Agencies BC Lung Association Contact Information 16 of Agencies
1 EP 120911 - 155 - riumph Over Ad T versity
Two incredibly inspiring athletes, one shared illness—this is the focus of this year’s PROFILE. Through the stories of Jeff Symonds and Andrea Burk, we find out how asthma affects athletes during training and competition. We also discover how a positive outlook and courage help Jeff and Andrea overcome adversity, something from which their fellow asthmatic athletes can learn so much.
Jeff Symonds: Professional Triathlete
Today, Jeff is one of Canada’s top Ironman 70.3 athletes. The 70.3, dubbed the Half Iron- man, is a gru- elling triathlon race consist- ing of a 1.9-km swim, followed by a 90-km bicycle ride and a 21.1-km run. Jeff esti- mates that he enticton’s Jeff Symonds grew up P participates playing “a ton of sports.” While at- in about 25 tending the University of British Co- events a lumbia, he participated in track and year—or one cross-country events, eventually de- event every veloping a passion for competing in other week—which include 10 major triathlons. “Triathlons are definitely competitions and over a dozen short- endurance events,” he reflects. “It’s all Jeff’s asthma wasn’t diagnosed until er ones. about who can push the longest.” he was 18. While competing in cross- country events at UBC, he started experiencing breathing difficul- “A lot more athletes than ties and tired out easily. At first he you’d expect have asthma. thought it was due to physical exer- tion, but when his colleagues started With proper treatment, any noticing that he wheezed while run- asthmatic athlete can succeed.” ning, Jeff finally decided to get him- self checked. While many don’t think about the im- “I was diagnosed and given medica- portance of breathing efficiently, it tion to control my asthma,” he nar- holds special importance to someone rates. “After that, my performance like Jeff who has asthma. “Breath- levelled out.” Though not severe, ing is huge,” he is quick to point out. Jeff’s asthma can drain him when “Competing in endurance events is he’s competing. “If I’m wheezing, a lot about getting oxygen into your it’s harder to breathe—air is not get- muscles, of staying as efficient as ting in. When I’m swimming, I have possible. If you can’t keep breathing difficulty taking deep breaths, so I calmly, it will affect your whole body. get fatigued.”
You’re going to have a tough day.” (Cont’d on p. 4)
2 EP 120911 - 156 - riumph Over Ad T versity PROFILE
Andrea Burk: WHY DO WE CARE ABOUT AIR QUALITY? Rugby Player asthma and the environment
Asthma is a chronic lung disease affecting hundreds of thousands of chil- dren and adults in British Columbia. People with asthma have very sensi- tive airways that are easily irritated when they inhale certain substances. When irritated, the airways become inflamed, leading to symptoms like wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
There is no cure for asthma, but current knowledge and treatments allow most asthmatics to live normal, active lives while managing the disease. Andrea Burk is an athlete who com- In most cases, asthma symptoms are mild and readily controlled by res- petes for Canada on the Women’s Rugby 7s and 15s teams. She began cue medications. However, sometimes they escalate into a full-blown and playing rugby in Grade 10. Today, at potentially life-threatening asthma attack. There is no cure for asthma, but age 30, Andrea continues to train five current knowledge and treatments allow most asthmatics to live normal, hours daily for a sport that has taken active lives while managing the disease. her to tournaments all over the world. On March 6, 2012, the BC Lung Association hosted the 9th Annual Air “Every couple months,” she says, Quality and Health Workshop on the subject. A group of 12 local and “there’s a tournament in which teams international experts were gathered to share their knowledge of the dis- might play five games in a day.” ease, and to describe how a wide variety of factors can affect people liv- Rugby is a physically demanding ing with asthma. sport requiring strength, speed and Highlights included: agility. Rugby 7s, played with seven players on each side, is particularly • The increase in the number of people living with asthma over the recent fast and demands aerobic fitness. The decades, adding to health care cost sport would be challenging to even • Challenges to asthma management, including the role of genetics and the most physically fit, but Andrea’s the environment in the development of asthma achievements are especially remark- able because she has asthma. • The effects of irritants such as outdoor air pol- lution, climate change, tobacco smoke, pollens, “I have mild to moderate asthma,” she moulds, and cleaning agents shares. “I was diagnosed when I was 11. When I have an asthma attack, my • Valuable online tools for people liv- chest feels tight. I feel like I’m breath- ing with asthma—namely, the Air Quality ing through a straw, and occasionally Health Index and BlueSky smoke forecast- I get lightheaded due to lack of oxy- ing system gen. Though I’ve never been hospi- Podcasts of all presentations are available talized due to my asthma, I know my online at www.BC.Lung.ca. Planning for the lungs don’t function as well as a regu- 2013 Air Quality and Health Workshop on lar person’s.” “Ultrafine Particles and its Health Impacts” Because poor air quality can trigger is underway, and details will be available her asthma, Andrea feels very fortu- from the BC Lung Association soon. nate to be living on B.C.’s West Coast where air quality is relatively good. “I
(Cont’d on p. 4)
EP 120911 - 157 - (Jeff Symonds... cont’d from p. 3)
Of triathlon’s three events, Jeff finds quality—and air quality and terrain swimming the biggest challenge to his definitely affect how hard I push breathing. “Much of it has to do with myself. So when I have issues with chemicals in the pool—of breathing breathing, I simply go slower.” in chlorine,” Jeff explains. “I find that Jeff is looking forward to com- swimming in pools is tougher, espe- peting this summer locally and cially if I forget to take my medication.” nationally, and he offers this Today, Jeff does most of his training in advice to other young athletes Penticton. “Air quality there is great,” with asthma: “A lot more ath- he says, “except during the fire sea- letes than you’d expect have son. When that starts and I notice air asthma, but with proper treat- quality declining, I make sure I take my ment, you can succeed.” medication. I can’t really control air
(Andrea Burk... cont’d from p. 4) Besides being prepared, Andrea’s can go for months training and exer- to cope with air pollutants. “It’s impor- ability to be in tune with her body has cising at home, with my lungs getting tant for me to be aware of the air qual- helped her successfully manage her stronger,” she says. ity,” she reflects, “and to be prepared— which means having my medication all asthma. “When I hear myself wheez- Outdoor air pollution affects An- the time. I could be walking to a venue ing, I speak encouragingly to myself. I drea’s ability to breathe freely, but feeling fine, only to get wheezy when I remind myself that I’ve been through indoor air quality can be just as start my warm-ups.” this before, and that I’ll get through problematic for her. As she explains: it again. Sometimes, this is enough “If the air is dry or there’s some- Andrea recognizes how critical to calm down the attack and I won’t thing in the air—dust, certain strong breathing is to competing at full ca- need my inhaler.” smells, cigarette smoke—my asthma pacity. “I’m always prepared,” she can get triggered.” says, “so I’ve never reached a point where I’ve had to be removed from Through the years, Andrea has learned “It’s very possible to stay active a game.” with asthma. I’m happy where I am today. My dream is coming true!”
Asthma certainly hasn’t slowed An- drea down one bit. There is no stop- ping her as she prepares to compete nationally and internationally in the game she loves the most. She remains positive and cheerful, her optimism reflected in her words: “I don’t let my asthma limit me. And I would tell asthmatic kids who are into sports to not let their asthma stop them, too. It’s very possible to stay active with asthma. I’m happy where I am. This has been a dream for me— and it’s all coming true!”
COLIN WATSON 4 EP 120911 - 158 - What’s in the air we breathe?
Pollutant Description Sources Human Health Effects Environmental Effects
Particulate Microscopic solid and Fuel combustion (includ- Aggravation of respiratory Impairment of visibility, effects Matter liquid particles that are ing wood and diesel), and cardiovascular disease, on climate, and damage and/ (PM) suspended in the atmo- industrial processes, reduced lung function, or discolouration of structures 10 refers to sphere; PM agriculture, unpaved increased respiratory and property particles 10 micrometres roads, and reactions in symptoms and premature
and smaller and PM2.5 to the atmosphere involving death
particles 2.5 micrometres NOx, SO2, hydrocarbons
or smaller and ammonia
Ozone Very reactive oxygen Formed in the atmo- Aggravation of respiratory Damage to vegetation, such species; in the upper at- sphere from reactions and cardiovascular disease, as impacts on tree growth and mosphere, ozone shields involving NOx and decreased lung function and reduced crop yields earth from sun’s harmful hydrocarbons in the increased respiratory symp-
ultraviolet rays presence of sunlight toms, increased susceptibility
to respiratory infection and
premature death
Nitrogen Group of highly reactive High-temperature com- Aggravation of respira- Contributes to acidification Oxides gases that include nitric bustion sources, such tory disease and increased and nutrient enrichment (NOx) oxide (NO) and nitro- as transportation and susceptibility to respiratory (eutrophication, nitrogen gen dioxide (NO2); NO2 industry infections; contributes to saturation) of soil and surface is odorous, brown and ozone and PM formation with water; contributes to ozone highly corrosive associated health effects and PM formation with associ- ated environmental effects Sulphur Colourless gas with pun- Burning of sulphur-con- Aggravation of asthma and Contributes to acidification Dioxide gent odour that smells taining fossil fuels and increased respiratory symp- of soil and surface water (SO2) like a struck match processing of sulphur- toms; contributes to PM and mercury methylation in containing ores formation with associated wetland areas; contributes to health effects PM formation with associated environmental effects Based on: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (2008) National Air Quality Status and Trends Through 2007. Report EPA-454/R-08-006, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Air Quality Assessment Division, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, November 2008.
The Ministry of Environment and—within the Lower Fraser Val- POLLUTION LEVELS: ley—Metro Vancouver and FVRD operate an extensive monitoring How does network to track levels of common air pollutants in B.C. commu- BC measure up? nities. These pollutants include fine particulate matter, ground- level ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur dioxide.
Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5). Figure 1 shows annual aver- age concentrations of PM2.5 measured at continuous (TEOM) monitoring sites in 2011. The highest concentrations were observed in interior communities such as Quesnel (6.3 µg/ m3), Golden (6 µg/m3), and Grand Forks (5.8 µg/m3), with peak levels occurring in the fall and winter. None of these sites exceeded the provincial annual objective of 8 µg/m3 or the 24-hour objective of 25 µg/m3. However, data from the past three years show that monitoring sites in both Quesnel and Williams Lake exceeded the Canada-wide Standards for PM2.5 of 30 µg/m3 due largely to the influence of wildfires in 2010.
Fig. 1: Ambient mean PM2.5 concentrations in µg/m3 for 2011. Data shown reflects TEOM or TEOM-compatible measurements from continuous samplers. (Cont’d on p. 6) 5 EP 120911 - 159 - (B.C. Pollution Levels... cont’d from p. 5)
Ground-level Ozone (O3). Figure 2 summarizes O3 concentrations, which typically peak in the summer months when conditions are warm and sunny. In 2011, no B.C. monitoring sites exceeded the Canada-wide Standard of 65 ppb. The highest concentrations were observed in the eastern Fraser Valley, in Hope (58 ppb), Chilliwack (56 ppb), Abbotsford (55 ppb), and Maple Ridge (55 ppb). The lowest concentrations were found in western parts of Metro Vancouver.
Fig. 2: Annual average O3 concentrations in ppb based on the eight- hour daily maximum concentrations (annual 4th highest averaged over 2009 to 2011).
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2). Figure 3 summarizes annual average NO2 concentrations in 2011. Concentrations were well below both the national (~31 ppb) and Met- ro Vancouver (~21 ppb) objectives. Average concen- trations ranged from 1 ppb in Ucluelet (a background site) to almost 17 ppb in Vancouver. In general, the highest concentrations were found in Metro Vancou- ver—in areas close to major traffic corridors or trans- portation hubs—during the fall and winter months.
Fig. 3: Annual mean NO2 concentrations in ppb for 2011.
Sulphur Dioxide (SO2). Annual average SO2 concen- trations in 2011 (see Figure 4) ranged from less than 1 ppb in a handful of communities to a high of 12.8 ppb in Warfield (near Trail), which exceeded the provincial objective of about 9.4 ppb. Short-term concentrations in excess of about 170 ppb were observed at several sites in Trail, Port Alice and Prince George, each of which was in close proximity to major industrial sourc- es such as smelters, pulp and paper mills, and petro- leum refineries.
Fig. 4. Annual mean SO2 concentrations in ppb for 2011.
6 EP 120911 - 160 - CLEANING UP THE NEIGHBOURHOOD: Reducing Exposure to Traffic Emissions
Internal combustion en- Four general approaches have been * Limiting heavy truck traffic to spe- identified to reduce TRAP exposure: cific routes and times gines in cars and trucks * Land-use planning and transporta- * Vehicle inspection and mainte- emit a myriad of differ- tion management—e.g., through the nance programs to identify high siting of new buildings and roads, emitting vehicles requiring retrofit- ent gases and particles. road setbacks, the separation of mo- ting or removal A growing body of scien- torized from active transportation * Separating active commuting (e.g., modes tific evidence links traf- cycling) from busy roads * Vehicle emission reduction—e.g., * Anti-idling bylaws via new vehicle emission regulations, fic-related air pollution * Traffic ongestion c reduction poli- fuel quality standards, inspection and cies—e.g., tolls, parking restrictions, (TRAP) to human health. maintenance programs for existing low emission zones, car-share pro- fleets Scientists at the University of British grams, and increased public trans- Columbia recently reviewed local and * Existing structure modification— portation e.g., through outdoor measures such international studies on the health ef- Actions expected to provide longer as physical barriers and the separa- fects and public health implications term (years to decades) benefits in- tion of bicycle lanes from traffic, and of traffic-related air pollution; re- clude land use planning that incor- indoor measures such as air filtration viewed legislation and guidelines on porates health impact assessments urban planning, the built environment * Encouraging behaviour change— as well as the siting of buildings that and traffic exposure; and identified e.g., by offering alternatives to pri- house susceptible populations, such options to reduce human exposure vate vehicles such as car-sharing and as schools, daycare and retirement to TRAP. The following summarizes improved public transport, and edu- homes at least 150 metres from busy their key findings: cating people on how transportation roads. choices impact emissions and TRAP TRAP has become a public health Some of these measures have already exposure concern due to the large percentage been incorporated into B.C.’s “Devel- of Canadians exposed to it. Approxi- A cohesive strategy to reduce TRAP op with Care” guidelines (www.Env. mately one-third of all Canadians live exposure will consist of various ac- Gov.BC.ca/wld/Documents/bmp/ within 100 metres of a major road or tions with both short- and long-term DevWithCare2012/), which identify 500 metres of a highway—the zones benefits, especially for susceptible best-management practices to pro- most greatly affected by TRAP. Of sub-populations. Actions with po- tect environmental values. The Cali- this population, approximately 20% tential short-term (months to years) fornia Air Resources Board (CARB) live within 50 metres of a major benefits include: also offers a useful reference guide road. Nearly one-third of elementary * Installing HVAC filter systems in for evaluating and reducing air pol- schools in Canadian cities are located buildings that house susceptible lution impacts associated with new in high-traffic areas. In short, those populations within 150 metres of projects that go through the land-use who live, work, exercise or commute busy roads—i.e., >15,000 AADT (an- decision-making process (see: www. near major roads are exposed to in- nual average daily traffic) ARB.ca.gov/ch/LandUse.htm). creased levels of TRAP that may af- fect their health. 7 EP 120911 - 161 - ULTRAFINE PARTICLES: Sources and Health Effects
As part of efforts to explain the health have proven to be effective in dra- effects associated with exposure to matically reducing UFP emissions (by particulate air pollution, one proposed 99% and 95% for particle number and mechanism focuses on the very small- mass, respectively). est particles—ultrafine particles (UFP), with a diameter smaller than 0.1 mi- However, the same filters increase the crometre. While making relatively mi- emissions of very fine sulphate parti- nor contributions to the mass concen- cles. They are also subject to emissions trations traditionally measured, these from periodic filter regeneration (when particles comprise the vast majority of particles trapped by the filters are airborne particles by number. burned off), which may contribute to high, short-term concentrations of UFP. UFP exist in large numbers and make up a large surface area, arguably a pa- Emissions from small gasoline engines rameter more relevant to toxicity than (the type found in mopeds and scoot- mass. As well, their minute size allows ers) and from off-road vehicles and them to cross into the bloodstream, machinery (construction equipment, through which they can impact the marine vessels, diesel backup power body more easily. generators) may also be significant animal and clinical studies, and epide- sources of UFP emissions. Under spe- Concern for UFP partly grew out of the miologic investigations were reviewed. cific conditions, wood combustion, increasing widespread use of specific Preliminary conclusions of the panel’s space heating and emissions from vehicle technologies, such as gasoline report were presented at the HEI An- cooking can also be important sources. direct injection. UFP are not routinely nual Conference (www.HealthEffects. measured by ambient air quality man- A recent study by the University of Brit- org/Slides/AnnConf2012/), and find- agement agencies, but for the past ish Columbia established that motor ings relevant to British Columbia are 15 years there has been extensive re- vehicles are the leading source of UFP briefly summarized here: search into the toxicology, exposure to emissions in urban areas. In measuring and epidemiology of UFP in ambient While UFP emissions have numerous UFP in 80 different sites in the Lower air, and a general understanding has sources, motor vehicles, especially Fraser Valley, the study found higher begun to emerge. older diesel vehicles, are the primary concentrations at locations closest to source in urban areas. To address this, major roads (see Figures 5 and 6). Recently, the Health Effects Institute Europe set particle number emissions (HEI), a non-profit research organiza- The measurements obtained were limits for all diesel vehicles. These limits tion dedicated to providing high-qual- further used to develop a spatial ensure that diesel particle filters (DPFs) ity, impartial, and relevant science on model of UFP concentrations for the are installed on all diesel vehicles. A air pollution’s health effects, commis- region (see Figure 5). Factors de- particle number standard for gasoline sioned a panel of experts to evaluate termining spatial variability in UFP cars is currently being studied. evidence of UFP emissions from mo- counts were identified as follows: the tor vehicles. The review aimed to ad- North America has not adopted these density of truck routes (within 50 dress two questions: emissions standards, though they will af- metres), the proximity to ports, and fect imported European vehicles. The Cal- the number of restaurants with fry- 1. How much do mobile sources contrib- ifornia Air Resources Board is considering ing/grilling found within 200 metres ute to human exposure to ambient UFP? an optional particle standard as it imple- of the locations of measurements. 2. Do UFP affect human health at envi- ments Low-Emission Vehicle regulations Given motor vehicles’ huge effect on ronmental concentrations? for light- and medium-duty vehicles. UFP concentrations, it is hardly sur- To address these questions, emissions Diesel particle filters, which are now prising that time spent in proximity to and exposure research, experimental required on all new diesel vehicles, motor vehicles (i.e., in traffic) greatly
8 EP 120911 - 162 - Fig. 5: Measurements showing that ultrafine particle counts are highest in close proximity to major roads. The measurements were used to develop a spatial model of ultrafine particle concentrations for the region.
contributes to personal exposure to evidence demonstrates the potential ambient UFP in urban areas. Depending for UFP to produce adverse health on commuting mode, route type, and effects. However, no strong evidence duration, exposures during commuting exists to show a huge difference in ef- may account for as much as 50% of an fects between short-term exposures individual’s daily UFP exposure. to UFP and to larger particles. The ef- fects of long-term exposures have not Toxicologic studies indicate that UFP been adequately investigated. are potentially toxic. While they do not appear to cause significant lung A large number of epidemiologic stud- inflammation at environmentally-rele- ies have similarly evaluated the effects vant concentrations, UFP can enhance of short-term exposures to UFP. These allergen responses, affect the progres- studies have inconsistent results, pro- sion of atherosclerosis, and influence viding suggestive evidence only of hu- autonomic control of the heart. man health effects at ambient concen- trations due to UFP. There is also evidence that UFP have extra-pulmonary (neurologic, cardio- Like the experimental toxicologic stud- vascular) effects. Experimental studies ies, epidemiologic studies on long- in humans further indicate that small term exposure effects of UFP are lack- proportions of inhaled UFP may cross ing. Presently, the available evidence into the epithelium and the blood- does not provide strong support for stream, but their significance from a regulations or management programs clinical perspective is unclear. specifically targeting ambient concen- trations of UFP. Fig. 6: Decreasing concentrations of ultrafine particles Overall, the experimental toxicologic measured at various distances from a major road. From Albernethy R. A land use regression model for ultrafine particles in Vancouver, B.C. MSc Theses, UBC. 2011. https://circle.ubc.ca/handle/2429/41895
9 EP 120911 - 163 - Every year, the BC Lung Association’s Air Quality and Health Steering Committee CLEAN AIR selects an individual, organization, community, physician or scientist who has made CHAMPIONS a difference in protecting air quality in our province and the lung health of its resi-
Prince George Air Improvement Roundtable Prince George has a history of people plementation of effective long-term terior Health Areas. During the study working together to improve air quality. strategies by identifying problems and period, Prince George had the highest Industrial and non-industrial human ac- solutions early.” annual average PM2.5 of all the Northern tivity, weather, and topography all pose BC and Interior communities monitored. Creating working groups to implement a number of air quality challenges for operational activities is a key compo- To help address air quality challenges, Prince George. The Prince George Air nent of PGAIR’s approach. Through PGAIR welcomes the opportunity to Improvement Roundtable (PGAIR) is these working groups, various partici- collaborate with other communities. working to develop air quality solutions pating organizations are encouraged “There are a number of shared chal- in support of its vision: Acceptable air to work together toward advancing lenges that we can find collective solu- quality is everyone’s right. Protecting air air quality improvements in three main tions for,” Robert believes. “For exam- quality is everyone’s responsibility. areas: education and awareness; moni- ple, transportation-related emissions, PGAIR is a multi-stakeholder, com- toring; and research. both on- and off-roads, for which com- munity-based, non-profit society munities need to develop short- and composed of representatives from PGAIR Executive Director long-term solutions that factor in eco- the general public, business, industry, nomic, environmental and social con- community groups, government, aca- Terry Robert: “This is a critical siderations. We can make large gains demia, and the medical community. time for us. We’re in a position addressing emission problems at pro- The group was originally formed in to implement recommenda- vincial, regional and local scales.” 1998 under a different name. In 2008, tions made in our Phase 3 “This is a critical time for PGAIR,” PGAIR became a non-profit society Airshed Management Plan.” Robert reflects. “After years identify- committed to researching, monitoring, ing and researching air quality issues recommending and implementing air and building relationships in Prince quality improvements. The group also “The range of agencies, jurisdictions George, PGAIR is currently in a posi- promotes public awareness and edu- and sectors represented through tion to implement recommendations cation in the Prince George airshed. PGAIR and the working groups is im- made in our Phase 3 Airshed Manage- pressive,” notes Robert. “It is the re- PGAIR strives to provide a place where ment Plan: a five-year plan to develop lationships and systems that form air quality topics, issues, opportunities strategies which can be utilized by all through these processes that will help and implementation strategies can be the stakeholders, whether or not they promote long-term air quality solu- explored from economic, environmen- are PGAIR members. The plan aims to tions for the community.” tal and social perspectives. PGAIR’s meet the emission reduction targets integrated approach includes govern- Preliminary data suggest the efforts of set by PGAIR by reducing particulate ment, industry, the public, and local, PGAIR, its predecessor, and the vari- matter. It also seeks to create a com- regional, provincial and national ju- ous stakeholder groups involved are munity where social well-being is sup- risdictions. PGAIR Executive Director paying off, with improvements in fine ported by a vibrant economy and sus- Terry Robert explains that “integrated particulate matter and sulphur dioxide tained by a healthy environment.” collaborative processes like PGAIR concentrations of 28% and 73% re- For more information, visit http:// help ensure the development and im- spectively since the mid 1990s, and in PGAirQuality.com. total reduced sulphur (associated with a rotten egg odour) of 84% since the late 1980s. Despite these accomplishments, how- RADON: ever, particulate matter concentrations in Prince George remain among the threats, challenges highest in B.C. A study conducted by El- & actions liott and Copes in 2011 reveals that PM2.5 concentrations accounted for up to 74 A radon workshop was held on day deaths per year in the Northern and In- 2 of the Air Quality and Health Work- shop. The objective was to identify ways in which public health practitio- ners and others can work together to reduce radon levels in B.C. homes and buildings. The workshop was well at- tended by public health practitioners,
10 EP 120911 - 164 - dents. This year, the Committee recognizes the valuable contribution of two Clean Air Champions—the Prince George Air Quality Improvement Roundtable and Dana Schmidt, who founded the Donna Schmidt Memorial Lung Cancer Prevention Society in honour of his late wife.
. Donna Schmidt Memorial Lung Cancer Prevention Society
In January 2009, Castlegar resident Health Canada’s guideline for yearly ex- sidies/grants be made available to Dana Schmidt lost his wife Donna to posures is 200 ßq/m3 (a measure of ra- mitigate radon levels in homes, like in lung cancer. “I spent a lot of time look- dioactive decays per second). Although Castlegar where 46% of homes tested ing into cures, hoping I could save my no level of radon is safe, individuals can were above the Canadian guideline. wife,” he remembers. “Eventually, I had reduce their health risks by ensuring In fact, according to the BC Centre for to acknowledge that this wasn’t going their homes are below this guideline. Disease Control, radon levels in Castle- to happen, so I turned my attention to Schmidt and his son Brian, a 2011 Nobel gar households are the second-highest the causes of lung cancer.” recorded in the province. Schmidt is Radon exposure is responsible for over “Spending 70% of your time in convinced that the savings to the health 200 lung cancer deaths in the province care system would far outweigh the every year. your home greatly increases cost of subsidies and upgrading homes. In his research, Schmidt discovered the risk of a very preventable “Exposure is cumulative,” Schmidt as- that exposure to radon gas is the cancer,” notes Dana Schmidt. serts. “Spending 70% of your time in second leading cause of lung cancer “Do not smoke—and have your your home greatly increases the risk (smoking being the first). “I was a bit home tested for radon gas.” of a very preventable cancer. Do not ignorant about radon, particularly its smoke—and have your home tested toxicity level,” he admits. “I had no idea for radon gas.” just how deadly it was.” Prize winner in Physics, founded the Schmidt recognizes that raising Radon is an odourless, tasteless and in- Donna Schmidt Memorial Lung Cancer awareness of the issue is an ongoing visible gas produced when naturally oc- Prevention Society to help reduce lung campaign. He maintains that “if we can curring uranium decays in water and soil. cancer from home and workplace ra- get even just 10% of the people to act, Most radon-induced lung cancers are don exposure. that will start saving lives. This is a real due to long-term exposures in homes. The Society distributes radon test kits issue, not just a health scare. It’s sup- At his son’s insistence, Schmidt had his throughout the West Kootenays. Dana ported by a number of studies.” home tested for radon, only to discover has also spoken to city councils and Schmidt`s goal is to prevent loss of life that radon levels were 50% above Can- given many presentations to commu- due to lung cancer by raising aware- ada’s national guideline. nity groups on how to eliminate the ness of the importance of testing “I’ve done work on particulates in the hazards of radon gas. and mitigation and by advocating for air, carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide,” One significant outcome of Dana’s changes in building codes and policy. shares Schmidt, who has a PhD in Toxi- work is that Castlegar’s City Council For more information, contact Dana cology. “The hazard in my own home is now ready to adopt a new build- Schmidt at (250) 365-0344, Ext. from radon gas was 500 times as ing code requiring new homes to be 227 or at [email protected]. Or deadly as that from other toxins!” radon-resistant. visit the society’s website at www. Dana advocates that government sub- DDSchmidt.ShawWebSpace.ca.
scientists, physicians, policy makers, Radon releases tiny radioactive particles. When breathed in, and students. they can damage the lining of the lung, which over a long Workshop presenters covered a period could result in lung cancer. Radon exposure is re- range of topics, including the health sponsible for 200 lung cancer deaths in B.C. every year, and impacts of radon, how it moves is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. from rock to homes and buildings, In smokers, exposure to both radon and cigarette smoke how it is distributed in B.C., testing greatly increases the risk of lung cancer. Children are also vul- and mitigation, as well as challenges nerable because—when they are exposed to radon’s damag- in setting public policies on radon. ing effects—they have a longer time to develop lung cancer Several organizations and agencies over their lifetime compared to adults. described their radon programs, in- A key message from the workshop is that people should be cluding Health Canada, Northern Health Authority, Interior aware of the health risk of radon and test their home, par- Health Authority, the Donna Schmidt Memorial Lung Cancer ticularly those living in areas where radon levels are known Prevention Society, and the US Environmental Protection to be high such as parts of the Interior and Northern B.C. Agency, among others. (Cont’d on p. 16)
11 EP 120911 - 165 - Air Pollution in B.C. through the Years
Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
Long-term PM2.5 trends are available for a handful of moni- Figure 8 shows trends in annual mean NO2 concentrations. toring sites in B.C. (see Figure 7). Concentrations in 2011 Significant downward trends were observed in Metro Van- were the lowest of the past 14 years in Nanaimo, Kelowna couver and the FVRD, reflecting reduced emissions due to and Prince George, and the second lowest over this period in improved vehicle emission standards and the AirCare ve- Metro Vancouver. Local restrictions on open burning, emis- hicle inspection program. In Victoria and Kelowna, 2011 con- sion reductions from light- and heavy-duty vehicles, and centrations were the lowest of the past 10 years. reduced emissions within Metro Vancouver from the petro- leum refining and wood products sectors have contributed to these downward trends.
3 Fig. 7: Trends in annual PM2.5 concentrations in µg/m at selected sites from Fig. 8: Trends in annual mean NO2 levels in ppb at selected sites from 1998 - 2011 (TEOM monitors only). 2002 - 2011.
Ground-level Ozone (O3) Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)
No significant trends in 3O were observed in B.C. based on Figure 10 shows trends in annual SO2 levels in Trail, Prince the annual eight-hour daily maximum ozone values at 21 George, Metro Vancouver, and Chetwynd. Concentrations in monitoring sites (see Figure 9). However, concentrations in Prince George and Metro Vancouver in 2011 were among the 2011 were the lowest of the past 11 years in Victoria, Metro lowest recorded over the 11-year period. Concentrations at the Vancouver and the FVRD, and the second lowest in Kelowna. Trail Butler Park site were the lowest in six years, while 2011 These levels can be attributed partly to the cool, wet weather SO2 levels in Chetwynd were the lowest since 2002. conditions in the first part of the summer of 2011.
Fig. 10: Trends in annual mean SO2 levels in ppb at selected B.C. sites from Fig. 9: Trends in O3 concentrations in ppb based on the 4th highest daily 2001 - 2011. eight-hour maximum concentrations at selected sites from 1999 - 2011.
12 EP 120911 - 166 - National Comparison
Air Quality levels at selected B.C. sites are compared with measurements from elsewhere in Canada. This does not re- flect comprehensive ranking of Canadian cities as data from B.C. communities with the largest population or highest air pollution levels were compared against readily available measurements from other Canadian cities with a population greater than 150,000, where the types and sources may be quite different. Metro Vancouver, Abbotsford, Victoria and Kelowna are examples of such urban areas in B.C. However, this comparison does indicate how B.C. sites are doing rela- tive to other parts of Canada.
Fig. 11: Annual mean PM2.5 concentrations in µg/m3 at selected Canadian cities in 2011 based on measurements from dichotomous samplers. B.C. sites are high- lighted in dark blue.
Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5)
Figure 11 shows annual mean PM2.5 concentrations. Of the selected sites, the highest concentrations in 2011 were recorded in Quesnel (8.7 µg/m3), followed by Montreal (8.2 µg/m3), Quebec City (7.9 µg/ m3) and Smithers (7.7 µg/m3). In contrast, PM2.5 concentrations at the Metro Vancouver sites were among the lowest of the sites ex- amined.
Fig. 12: Annual one-hour maximum O3 concentrations in ppb in selected Canadian cities in 2011. B.C. sites are highlighted in dark purple.
Ozone (O3)
Figure 12 shows maximum one-hour O3 concentrations at various sites across Canada. The highest concentrations were found along the Windsor-Quebec corridor, particularly in Windsor (101 ppb), Hamilton (95 ppb), Toronto (88 ppb) and Montreal (84 ppb), each of which exceeded the national one-hour objective of 82 ppb. Con- centrations measured at B.C. sites were comparatively low, with the highest one-hour concentration found in Abbotsford (73 ppb).
Fig. 13: Annual mean NO2 concentrations in ppb in selected Canadian cities in 2011. B.C. monitoring sites are highlighted in brown.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
Figure 13 shows annual mean NO2 concentrations at various Ca- nadian sites. Of the cities examined, the highest concentrations were observed in large urban areas, particularly Toronto and Mon- treal (both 19 ppb), followed by Vancouver (17 ppb). All sites were below national (31 ppb) and Metro Vancouver (21 ppb) objec- tives. Concentrations in Victoria, Abbotsford, and Kelowna were less than half the average NO2 levels in Toronto and Montreal.
Fig. 14: Annual mean SO2 concentrations in ppb in selected Canadian cities in 2011. B.C. monitoring sites are highlighted in dark green.
Sulphur Dioxide (SO2)
Figure 14 shows annual mean SO2 concentrations in selected Ca- nadian cities. The highest levels were observed in the vicinity of Trail (12.8 ppb) and Port Alice (7.9 ppb), reflecting the proximity of these sites to major industrial sources. Only the Trail site exceeded the provincial objective. Concentrations in major cities elsewhere in Canada were at least a factor of two lower than the provincial objective, with the exception of Hamilton at 5.2 ppb.
13 EP 120911 - 167 - News from Partner Agencies
FRASER VALLEY REGIONAL DISTRICT matter (soot) from older, non-road Caring for the Air diesel engines such as excavators, Air Quality Monitoring Stations backhoes, and stationary equipment Metro Vancouver’s first annual Caring for the Air report, which describes air In cooperation with Metro Vancouver, operating in the region. Non-road en- gines are a large source of air pollut- quality and climate change issues in Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD) the Lower Mainland, was prepared to will install two new air quality moni- ants like diesel soot, which increases the risks for short- and long-term complement the BC Lung Association’s toring stations in Agassiz and Mission. State of the Air Report. It is available at Equipment has been provided in part respiratory problems, heart and lung disease, and cancer. www.MetroVancouver.org/Services/Air/ through Environment Canada’s Na- Documents/Caring_for_Air-MV2012.pdf. tional Air Pollution Surveillance (NAPS) Engine owners can reduce their fees or Network, with assistance from the B.C. receive a refund by decreasing emis- B.C. MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT Ministry of Environment. The stations sions or retiring an engine. There are will become operational in mid-2012, The Ministry of Environment seeks to also staged prohibitions against oper- protect the environment and prevent and will be run and maintained coop- ating Tier 0 and Tier 1 engines starting eratively with Metro Vancouver. pollution through monitoring, report- in 2015 and 2020, respectively. ing, regulations and enforcement activ- Air Quality Management Plan Reducing Exposure to ities. Among the Ministry’s most recent programs are the following: Work is continuing on an amendment to Traffic Emissions the FVRD Air Quality Management Plan. In partnership with the B.C. Ministry Smoke Management Once a new draft is completed, it will go of Environment and TransLink, and through consultation and revision pro- The Open Burning Smoke Control with input from several municipalities, Regulation outlines the conditions un- cesses before being presented to the health authorities and other govern- FVRD Board of Directors for adoption. der which open burning of vegetative ment agencies, Metro Vancouver ini- debris can be authorized. These con- . METRO VANCOUVER tiated a consulting study to evaluate ditions include setback distances from strategies to reduce resident exposure residences, schools, hospitals and care Heavy-Duty Diesel Vehicle Remote to traffic-related air pollutants, and to facilities; favourable venting conditions; Emission Testing Study develop air quality-focused land use smoke release periods; and number of planning and urban design guidelines. As part of its strategy to reduce emis- burns per year. Proposed changes to sions of and public exposure to diesel Controlling Open Burning this regulation were discussed in Inten- particulate matter, Metro Vancouver is Emissions and Odour tions Papers released to the public in considering options to reduce emis- 2010 and 2011. This regulation is expect- sions from on-road, heavy-duty ve- Metro Vancouver plans to propose an ed to be finalized by the end of 2012. Open Burning Smoke Control Regu- hicles. Metro Vancouver—with the B.C. The Solid Fuel Burning Domestic Ap- Ministry of Environment, FVRD, Air- lation to manage the discharge of air pollutants from smoke caused by the pliance Regulation sets out the re- Care, Port Metro Vancouver and oth- quirements for selling wood stoves ers—plans to collect real-life emission uncontrolled burning of vegetative materials such as land clearing debris and other solid fuel-burning domestic data representative of the local heavy- appliances. This regulation is being duty diesel fleet during a three-month and backyard waste. To meet the goals of regional liquid and solid waste man- updated to include a wider range of trial period in the summer of 2012 using wood-burning appliances, such as out- remote sensing device (RSD) technol- agement plans, Metro Vancouver is likewise addressing malodorous sub- door wood-fired boilers, and to adopt ogy. Through infrared and ultraviolet more stringent emission standards technology, RSD instantaneously reads stance emissions from select sources in the region, including new facilities. for fine particulate matter. Proposed emissions levels from vehicle stacks as changes to the regulation were de- they pass by. Regulatory requirements would be proposed for odours from industrial scribed in a 2010 Intentions Paper that New Bylaw for Non-Road Diesel Engines operations, such as composting, aero- can be found at: www.Env.Gov.BC.ca/ bic and anaerobic digestion, and ren- Epd/Codes/Solid-Fuel/Index.htm. In January 2012, a new bylaw for non- dering facilities. Consultation with The Wood Residue Burner and Incin- road diesel engines came into effect industry, government, and the public in Metro Vancouver. The bylaw will erator Regulation was amended in about these two initiatives is expected 2011. The amendment requires phas- reduce emissions of diesel particulate to take place throughout 2012.
14 EP 120911 - 168 - ing out all remaining beehive burn- Pellet Manufacturing Facilities, Com- The Environmental Health Program at ers in B.C. by December 31, 2016. The bustion of Municipal Solid Waste, and Health Canada continues to partici- parts of the regulation dealing with Best Available Technology. These pate in promotional and awareness ac- emissions from incinerators were also publications summarize key emis- tivities related to the AQHI. The AQHI removed. These changes will encour- sions information contained in the is currently available in 21 locations age lower environmental impact end- Ministry’s Guidelines governing these in B.C., representing over 1/3 of AQHI uses for wood residuals. four activities. communities in Canada, and contin- ues to be implemented in communi- Air Quality Monitoring Finally, the Ministry has updated its ties across the country. For current inventory of local government bylaws and forecasted AQHI in your region, The Ministry (like Metro Vancouver and on open burning, wood heating and the FVRD) is in the process of upgrad- visit: www.BCAirQuality.ca. For more anti-idling. The report is expected information on the AQHI, go to: www. ing its network of continuous PM2.5 to be useful to communities who are AirHealth.ca. monitors from the current TEOM in- considering adopting or updating air strument to models providing a more quality bylaws and to the concerned Transit complete measurement of PM2.5 mass. public. The report can be found at: Widespread reporting of data from the www.BCAirQuality.ca/Reports/pdfs/ Health Canada will study the levels of new instruments is expected to com- Bylaws-2011.pdf. pollutants that Metro Vancouver’s bus mence in 2013. and light rail transit commuters are ex- HEALTH CANADA posed to along their routes. Smoke Forecasting Tool Air Quality Health Index Indoor Air Quality The Western Canada BlueSky Smoke Forecasting System was launched in Health Canada will study how to ad- The Environmental Health Program 2010 as a tool to provide up-to-date dress two key elements of its AQHI re- continues to participate in provincial wildfire smoke forecasts based on sat- search plan: one, the AQHI‘s accuracy programs raising awareness of radon’s ellite technology, forest inventory data, in predicting health risk in rural areas health risks, in addition to encourag- and weather forecasts. It is the product and smaller cities and towns; two, the ing the testing and remediation of of a multi-agency collaboration, which AQHI’s effectiveness in reducing health homes to reduce radon levels. Health includes the provinces of B.C., Alberta risk among vulnerable populations. Canada is also collaborating with the and Manitoba, federal agencies, the BC CDC and SFU Health Sciences on University of British Columbia, and the B.C.’s rural areas have a distinct mix of two research studies: one, on develop- U.S. Forest Service. Twice-daily fore- pollutants compared to urban areas ing a framework for carbon monoxide casts (in the morning and afternoon) where the majority of air pollution re- in long-term care facilities and hospi- are now available at: www.BCAirQual- search has been done. The first part of tals; the other, on phthalates exposure ity.ca/BlueSky. the study will measure health markers in children. in a sample of individuals living in a ru- Other Activities ral area and evaluate their relationship COLLABORATIVE INITIATIVES with the AQHI. The second part will ex- Over the past year, the B.C. Environ- amine the use of mobile technology in Visual Air Quality ment Ministry published a guideline sending updated AQHI health messag- for municipal solid waste combustion. A pilot project is underway to develop es directly to cellphones of people vul- a visual air quality management pro- The document provides policy guide- nerable to air pollution’s health effects. lines for the issuance of air discharge (Cont’d on p. 16) authorizations—including numerical emission limits for new and existing fa- cilities—and expectations for monitor- ing and best management plans. The document better prepares Ministry de- cision-makers in dealing with possible new facilities in the province. The Ministry has also published four new Fact Sheets on Biomass-Fired Electrical Power Generation, Wood
Fig. 15: Various instruments monitor visual air quality in Metro Vancouver and the Lower Fraser Valley. The camera on the left is programmed to take photos every 30 minutes for uploading to the Clear Air BC website. Nephelometers in the centre photo measure light scattering by particles and gases every hour. Scattering and light absorption measurements are combined to arrive at a near real-time mea- surement of visibility conditions. The speciated particulate matter (PM) sampler on the right collects fine particulate matter onto a filter over a 24-hr. period. Lab analysis helps determine which pollutants affect visibility degradation. 15 EP 120911 - 169 - (Partner Agencies... cont’d from p. 15) Visit or contact the following agencies FOR MORE INFORMATION gram for Metro Vancouver and the Lower Fraser Valley. Monitoring and computer modelling of visual air qual- BC LUNG ASSOCIATION BRITISH COLUMBIA ity have been enhanced over the past www.bc.lung.ca HEALTH AUTHORITIES year, and much more is planned. Steps 2675 Oak Street have also been taken to improve how Vancouver, B.C. V6H 2K2 Northern Health Authority visual air quality is communicated to (604) 731-5864 or toll-free at www.northernhealth.ca the public. This includes posting hourly 1-800-665-5864 (in B.C. but Suite 600, 299 Victoria Street images of six scenic vistas from Lions outside the Lower Mainland) Prince George, BC V2L 5B8 Bay to Burnaby to Chilliwack on the (250) 565-2649 ENVIRONMENT CANADA - Clear Air BC website (www.ClearA- Vancouver Island Health Authority irBC.ca). These images will help iden- PACIFIC AND YUKON REGION www.pyr.ec.gc.ca www.viha.ca tify when and where visual air quality 1952 Bay Street is diminished. In the near future, these 401 Burrard Street Vancouver, B.C. V6C 3S5 Victoria, B.C. V8R 1J8 photos will be accompanied by a new (250) 370-8699 Visual Air Quality Rating linking pollu- (604) 664-9100 tion concentration to air clarity. (See HEALTH CANADA Vancouver Coastal Health Authority Figure 15 for related information.) ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH www.vch.ca 11th Floor, 601 West Broadway Wood Stove Exchange Program PROGRAM - B.C. REGION www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/air/ Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 4C2 The Provincial Wood Stove Exchange index-eng.php (604) 736-2033 or 1-866-884-0888 Program provides financial incentives 400-4595 Canada Way Fraser Health Authority for upgrading old wood stoves, in ad- Burnaby, B.C. V5G 1J9 www.fraserhealth.ca dition to educating wood burners on (604) 666-2671 Suite 400, Central City Tower how to improve their burning prac- BC CENTRE FOR 13450–102nd Avenue tices. In December 2011, the province Surrey, B.C. V3T 0H1 announced $200,000 new funding to DISEASE CONTROL www.bccdc.ca (604) 587-4600 or 1-877-935-5669 support the change-out programs in 12 655 West 12th Avenue communities. By the end of 2012, over Interior Health Authority Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 4R4 5,000 old stoves are expected to have www.interiorhealth.ca (604) 707-2400 been exchanged for cleaner burning 220-1815 Kirschener Rd models. This includes 106 exchanges in B.C. MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT Kelowna, B.C. V1Y 4N7 the FVRD and 225 exchanges in Metro www.bcairquality.ca (250) 862-4200 Vancouver. This equates to a reduction of over 310 tonnes of PM2.5 per year. Environmental Standards Branch PO Box 9341, Stn Prov Govt Please send correspondence and Victoria, B.C. V8W 9M1 evaluation to Dr. Menn Biagtan, (250) 387-9932 [email protected] or call . (604) 731-5864 • 1-800-665-LUNG Ministry of Environment (outside the Lower Mainland). (Radon... cont’d from p. 11) Regional Offices Testing is easy, inexpensive and can www.env.gov.bc.ca/main/regions.html be done with a “do–it-yourself” test METRO VANCOUVER Published June 2012 kit. Contact the BC Lung Associa- www.metrovancouver.org tion (www.BC.Lung.ca/AirQuality/Air- Working Committee: 4330 Kingsway Quality_Radon_qanda.html) or the Burnaby, B.C. V5H 4G8 Dr. Ryan Allen Northern Health Authority (www. (604) 432-6200 Ms. Prabjit Barn NorthernHealth.ca/YourHealth/En- Dr. Menn Biagtan vironmentalHealth/Radon.aspx) to FRASER VALLEY Dr. Mike Brauer purchase a $30 test kit. If you live in REGIONAL DISTRICT Ms. Nina A. Dobbin the Castlegar area, contact the Donna www.fvrd.bc.ca Mr. Derek Jennejohn Schmidt Memorial Lung Cancer Pre- 45950 Cheam Avenue Dr. Sarah Henderson vention Society for a test kit (see con- Chilliwack, B.C. V2P 1N6 Dr. Tom Kosatsky tact information on page 11). (604) 702-5000 or Ms. Natalie Suzuki Mr. Julian Zelazny To view presentations from this work- 1-800-528-0061 shop, please visit: www.BC.Lung.ca/ Contributing Writer: Association_and_Services/Air_Qual- B.C. MINISTRY OF HEALTH www.bcairquality.ca Mr. Larry Pellizzari ity_Workshop.html. Health Protection Branch Content Editing & Graphic Design: 1515 Blanshard Street, RBB 4-2 Little Brown Bros. Victoria, B.C. V8W 3C8 Advertising & Marketing (250) 952-1469 16 EP 120911 - 170 -