Still Creek Enhancement

Still Creek Enhancement is the first project in a comprehensive 50-year plan to enhance Still Creek. This is a major step towards recognizing the great potential of one of Vancouver's two remaining streams. In 2005, development of the creek included naturalizing a 70 m section of the creek, creating a side channel and small planted island, and installing interpretive signs and a viewing platform. Coordinators ensured that the project's benefits were not only environmental. Other benefits included involving and educating community members, providing public art, and securing long-term financial support.

The project's environmental focus was on stream enhancement with the eventual goal of supporting salmon. The stream enhancement addressed urban runoff by cleaning it and allowing it to infiltrate into the ground. The enhancement also accommodates a larger volume of water than pipes do, helping to reduce downstream flooding. Native plants with good habitat value were planted next to the stream. The use of materials salvaged from development sites minimized off-site environmental impacts.

Vancouver Film Studios' payments for leasing part of nearby Cornett Road provides long-term financial support for Still Creek Enhancement, one of the most unusual aspects of the project. The Film Studio's presence makes the otherwise conventional industrial area more attractive, providing value to businesses, employees, and nearby residents.

Tours: Open to the public

This post was imported from the 'Greater Vancouver Green Guide', it's part of the 'Green Guide Portal' to the Green Building Brain.