Our neighbourhood is strongly influenced by the Fraser River, flowing west on our northern edge.
The Fraser River Basin stretches 1400 km from the Rockies to Richmond and covers an area the size of Britain or California. The Basin boasts one of world's most productive salmon river systems. Its vast ecosystem supports 65 species of fish and hundreds of species of birds, mammals, plants and trees. 80% of BC's economy is generated in the region. And, perhaps most importantly, for two out of three British Columbians, the Fraser Basin is home.
2005 BC’s Most Endangered Rivers List
1) Fraser River:
This year, after several years of improvement, the Fraser River has
taken a turn for the worse. For the first time in 9 years, the Fraser
River tops this year’s BC’s Endangered Rivers List. While long standing
issues such as sewage and industrial pollution continue to be
problematic, there are also a host of emerging issues that are the cause
of much concern. Among these are missing sockeye salmon, low
summer flows, unchecked agricultural impacts, reduced protection for
many urban stream tributaries, and excessive gravel extraction beyond
what is required for flood control purposes.
In addition, the river continues to be threatened by impacts associated with rapid urbanization, urban run-off, extensive logging in its headwaters, a loss of riparian habitat and industrial pollution, especially along the North Arm. There are also a number of old contaminated sites that continue to be problematic.
All of these issues have played a role in this year’s listing and
there are increasing concerns about the river’s long term health and our
commitment to sustainability. And while it’s important to note that
progress has been made on some fronts over the past decade thanks to the
valiant efforts of many stewardship groups, a significant majority of
respondents expressed concern that many of the most
pressing issues facing the Fraser are not being adequately addressed.