(CEMP) Tracking Report - the BIEAP and FREMP Website

Consolidated 

Environmental 

Management 

Plan for 

Burrard Inlet 

Tracking Report 

2008 

Burrard Inlet

Indian Arm — (2,670 ha) 

This deep water ord is fed 

by the Indian River watershed. 

Indian Arm is surrounded by 

parkland and is essentially in 

its natural state. 

Burrard Inlet 

False Creek — 77 ha 

This is the smallest water body 

in the City of Vancouver. 

The False Creek shoreline is 

highly developed and the 

water body is heavily used by 

recreational boaters. 

Drainage Basin — 97,800 ha 

The drainage basin for Burrard 

Inlet spans a significant upland 

area. While most of the upland 

is in a natural state, the land 

base available for urban 

expansion is laced with many 

streams that provide fish and 

wildlife habitat. 

Central Harbour — 890 ha 

This water body spans the area 

east of the Second Narrows 

and links Indian Arm and Port 

Moody Arm with the Inner 

Harbour. While the shoreline 

has pockets of industrial 

development, the Maplewood 

Flats have been reclaimed as a 

highly valued habitat for 

wildlife. 

Inner Harbour — 1540 ha 

Between the First and Second 

Narrows is the heart of the 

working port complex of Port 

Vancouver. This is the hub 

of marine and urban transportation 

for the Greater 

Vancouver region. 

Outer Harbour —5,600 ha 

This water body is the entry to 

Burrard Inlet from the Strait of 

Georgia and includes English 

Bay. 

N O R T H V A N C O U V E R 

D I S T R I C T 

WEST VANCOUVER 

ANMORE 

nd an Arm 

I i 

NOR TH 

VANCOU VER 

C ITY 

BE LC A R R A 

B U R R A R D 

I N L E T 

Port Moody Arm — 560 ha 

This water body contains 

isolated port facilities and 

industrial operations. The 

eastern portion of the Port 

Moody Arm is an extensive 

inter-tidal mudat. 

PORT 

MOODY 

Central Harbour 

Inner Harbour 

P rt M o y A m 

o o d r 

Outer Harbour 

English 

Bay 

Fal e C r e e k 

s 

U E L 

COQUITL AM 

BURN AB Y 

VANCOUVER

Contents 

4 Over the Years 

5 Introduction 

8 Report Outline 

10 Progress Reported 

11 CEMP Action 1.1 

Continue to coordinate the management of liquid waste in Burrard Inlet. 


Develop and implement a coordinated ambient water quality monitoring program in Burrard 

Inlet. 


Share information and contribute to the effort to eliminate non-point source pollution in 

Burrard Inlet. 


Develop and enhance Industrial Best Management Practices (BMPs) and strengthen 

partnerships with the industrial sector. 


Share information and explore ways how BIEAP could contribute to air quality initiatives in 

the region. 


Develop a database to monitor historically contaminated lands and 

sediments in Burrard Inlet. 


Make use of global research efforts to provide management options for contaminated lands 

and sediments. 


Confirm and acknowledge existing “protected” areas in Burrard Inlet. 


Assist the Greater Vancouver Biodiversity Conservation Strategy by identifying areas of 

ecological significance in Burrard Inlet for future protection and enhancement. 


Use legislative tools such as Marine Protected Areas, Wildlife Management Areas and 

ecological corridors to protect and enhance valuable areas in the Burrard Inlet ecosystem. 


Provide information and resources to all municipal, regional and port planning initiatives 

along the shoreline and in adjoining watersheds. 


Coordinate and provide support and technical expertise to stewardship and community 

stakeholder groups in their efforts to improve the environment . 


Update and promote the BIEAP Shoreline Development Guidelines. 


Develop pilot projects in cooperation with the public and private sectors to showcase 

innovative environmentally sensitive designs. 


Explore and develop models to deal with the cumulative effects of development within 

Burrard Inlet.

Over the Years 

Table 1 

CEMP Actions Reported by Year 

CEMP Action Item 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 

1.1 • • • 

1.2 • • • • • 

1.3 • 

1.4 • • • • • 

1.5 • • • 

1.6 • • • • 

2.1 • 

2.2 • • 

2.3 

2.4 • 

3.1 • • 

3.2 • • 

3.3 • 

4.1 • • • • 

4.2 • • • 

4.3 

* 

4.4 • • 

4.5 • • 

4.6 • • • 

4.7 • • 

4.8 • • 

The table above shows when reports were submitted for each of the CEMP Actions between 

2004 and 2008. The ‘•’ symbol indicates reporting was received by BIEAP for that year. 

* Technical challenges with marine habitat banking, resource limitations and conflicting 

priorities have prevented Port Metro Vancouver and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (a 

necessary partner in the initiative) from implementing Action 4.3 to date. However, since 

the habitat provisions of the Fisheries Act apply to development in Burrard Inlet, this delay 

in implementing Action 4.3 has not resulted in net loss of fish habitat. Port Metro Vancouver 

remains committed to the creation of a habitat bank within Burrard Inlet and is making this 

a priority for 2009.

Introduction 

5 

2 0 0 8 C E M P T R A C K I N G R E P O RT I N T R O D U C T I O N 

The Consolidated Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) for Burrard Inlet was 

approved by the BIEAP partners in 2002, and contains 21 action items to achieve four 

shared goals: 

Goal #1 Improve water quality in Burrard Inlet 

Goal #2 Minimize the effects of contaminated soils and sediments on human and 

ecological health 

Goal #3 Maintain and enhance productive fish and wildlife habitat and the natural 

biodiversity of Burrard Inlet 

Goal #4 Encourage human and economic development activities that enhance the 

environmental quality of Burrard Inlet 

These four goals are also grouped under three themes: 

Water Quality/Waste Management & Air Quality; 

Historically Contaminated Lands and Sediments; and 

Healthy Ecosystems and Biodiversity. 

In support of the goals, 21 action items are identified as follows: 

Goal #1 Improve water quality in Burrard Inlet. 

1.1 Continue to coordinate the management of liquid waste in Burrard Inlet. 

1.2 Develop and implement a coordinated ambient water quality monitoring 

program in Burrard Inlet. 

1.3 Review and make recommendations on the provincial permit discharge 

standards for industrial wastes. 

1.4 Share information and contribute to the effort to eliminate non-point source 

pollution in Burrard Inlet. 

1.5 Develop and enhance Industrial Best Management Practices (BMPs) and 

strengthen partnerships with the industrial sector. 

1.6 Share information and explore ways how BIEAP could contribute to air quality 

initiatives in the region. 

Goal #2 Minimize the effects of contaminated soils and sediments on human 

and ecological health. 

2.1 Develop and implement a risk-based sediment management plan for False 

Creek. 

2.2 Develop a database to monitor historically contaminated lands and sediments in 


2.3 Develop risk-based sediment management plans for historically contaminated 

areas of Burrard Inlet as required. 

2.4 Make use of global research efforts to provide management options for 

contaminated lands and sediments.

6 

2 0 0 8 C E M P T R A C K I N G R E P O RT I N T R O D U C T I O N 

Goal #3 Maintain and enhance productive fish and wildlife habitat and 

the natural biodiversity of Burrard Inlet. 

3.1 Confirm and acknowledge existing “protected” areas in Burrard Inlet. 

3.2 Assist the Greater Vancouver Biodiversity Conservation Strategy by identifying 

areas of ecological significance in Burrard Inlet for future protection and 

enhancement. 

3.3 Use legislative tools such as Marine Protected Areas, Wildlife Management 

Areas and ecological corridors to protect and enhance valuable areas in the 

Burrard Inlet ecosystem. 

Goal #4 Encourage human activities and economic development activities 

that enhance the environmental quality of Burrard Inlet. 

4.1 Provide information and resources to all municipal, regional and port planning 

initiatives along the shoreline and in adjoining watersheds. 

4.2 Coordinate and provide support and technical expertise to stewardship and 

community stakeholder groups in their efforts to improve the environment. 

4.3 Identify areas for habitat compensation banking. 

4.4 Develop environmental guidelines for recreation access, and park development 

and maintenance. 

4.5 Update and promote the BIEAP Shoreline Development Guidelines. 

4.6 Develop pilot projects in cooperation with the public and private sectors to 

showcase innovative environmentally sensitive designs. 

4.7 Develop an inventory of archeologically significant sites. 

4.8 Explore and develop models to deal with the cumulative effects of development 

within Burrard Inlet. 

In addition to the above, the CEMP identifies: 

Six sub-basins within Burrard Inlet and describes partnership actions for each sub-basin. 

The 6 sub-basins are the Outer Harbour, False Creek, Inner Harbour, Central Harbour, Port 

Moody Arm and Indian Arm. For a map of the BIEAP area of interest, see page 4 or visit 

our website at www.bieapfremp.org/maps.html. 

Stakeholders include community groups, First Nations, municipal governments, and 

agencies within regional government, provincial government and federal government. 

The CEMP is documented in a second print issued in November 2002 

(BIEAP, 2002).

PHOTOGRAPH: NEIL MCDANIEL (PROVIDED BY PORT METRO VANCOUVER)

Report Outline 

8 

2 0 0 8 C E M P T R A C K I N G R E P O RT R E P O RT O U T L I N E 

The CEMP contains a commitment towards an annual reporting system, namely, that 

BIEAP will institute an annual public reporting system on the work achieved through the 

partnership. The CEMP Tracking Report is part of annual progress-reporting; which is also 

achieved via BIEAP-FREMP Annual Reports. 

The BIEAP Plan Implementation Committee (PIC) guides Plan implementation and 

consists of representatives from the BIEAP partner agencies, First Nations and 

surrounding municipalities: Environment Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Port 

Metro Vancouver, BC Ministry of Environment, Metro Vancouver, City of Burnaby, City 

of North Vancouver, City of Port Moody, City of Vancouver, District of North Vancouver, 

District of West Vancouver, Squamish First Nation, Musqueam First Nation, Tsleil- 

Waututh Nation, Village of Anmore, and Village of Belcarra. 

Information was gathered from a number of the stakeholders in the period July— 

September 2008, and focused on ongoing and future projects related to progress on 

the selected Actions. Where information was gathered in 2007 for the same action, 

an update was obtained. Table 3 on the facing page outlines the CEMP actions whose 

implementation was tracked for this report, and those who provided information. Table 2 

below is a legend of the acronymns used for CEMP stakeholders who provided input into 

the 2008 CEMP Tracking Report. 

Table 2 

Acronymns Used in this Report for CEMP Stakeholders 

Acronym Organization 

BIEAP Burrard Inlet Environmental Action Program 

CNV City of North Vancouver 

CoV City of Vancouver 

CPM City of Port Moody 

DFO Fisheries and Oceans Canada 

DNV District of North Vancouver 

DWV District of West Vancouver 

EC Environment Canada 

MOE BC Ministry of Environment 

MV Metro Vancouver 

PMV Port Metro Vancouver

Table 3 

CEMP Actions Included in this Report 

CEMP Action Item 

9 

2 0 0 8 C E M P T R A C K I N G R E P O RT R E P O RT O U T L I N E 

Stakeholders providing input 

into the 2008 CEMP Tracking 

Report 

1.1 Continue to coordinate the management of liquid waste in Burrard Inlet. BIEAP, EC, MV, MOE, PMV 

1.2 Develop and implement a coordinated ambient water quality 

monitoring program in Burrard Inlet. 

1.4 Share information and contribute to the effort to eliminate non-point 

source pollution in Burrard Inlet. 

1.5 Develop and enhance Industrial Best Management Practices (BMPs) 

and strengthen partnerships with the industrial sector. 

1.6 Share information and explore ways how BIEAP could contribute to 

air quality initiatives in the region. 

2.2 Develop a database to monitor historically contaminated lands and 

sediments in Burrard Inlet. 

2.4 Make use of global research efforts to provide management options 

for contaminated lands and sediments. 

BIEAP, MV, MOE, 

BIEAP, CNV, CPM, CoV, DNV, DWV, 

EC, DFO, MV, MOE, PMV 

CPM, DWV, EC, MV, MOE, PMV 

CNV, CPM, DNV, EC, MV, MOE, 

PMV 

3.1 Confirm and acknowledge existing “protected” areas in Burrard Inlet. CNV, CPM, DNV, DWV, EC, DFO, 

PMV 

3.2 Assist the Greater Vancouver Biodiversity Conservation Strategy by 

identifying areas of ecological significance in Burrard Inlet for future 

protection and enhancement. 

3.3 Use legislative tools such as Marine Protected Areas, Wildlife 

Management Areas and ecological corridors to protect and 

enhance valuable areas in the Burrard Inlet ecosystem. 

4.1 Provide information and resources to all municipal, regional and port 

planning activities along the shoreline and in adjoining watersheds. 

4.2 Coordinate and provide support and technical expertise to 

stewardship and community stakeholder groups in their efforts 

to improve the environment. 

PMV 

PMV 

4.5 Update and promote the BIEAP Shoreline Development Guidelines. BIEAP 

4.6 Develop pilot projects in cooperation with the public and private sectors 

to showcase innovative environmentally sensitive designs. 

4.8 Explore and develop models to deal with the cumulative effects of 

development within Burrard Inlet. 

BIEAP, CNV, CoV, DNV, DWV, DFO, 

EC, MV, MOE, PMV 

CNV, CPM, DNV, DWV, MV, PMV 

CNV, CoV, CPM, DNV, DWV, EC, 

MV, PMV 

CNV, CoV, CPM, DNV, DWV, EC, 

DFO, MV 

CNV, CPM, DWV, DFO, MV, PMV 

DNV, MV, MOE

11 

2 0 0 8 C E M P T R A C K I N G R E P O RT P R O G R E S S R E P O RT E D 

Progress Reported The information gathered for this report is summarized below. 

CEMP Action 1.1 

Continue to coordinate the management of liquid waste in Burrard Inlet. 

BIEAP Burrard Inlet Environmental Action Program 1.1 

In March 2008, BIEAP coordinated a workshop to review and discuss the Metro 

Vancouver Discussion Document: Strategy for Updating the Liquid Waste 

Management Plan. 

Participating agencies included: City of North Vancouver, District of North Vancouver, 

Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Environment Canada, Metro Vancouver, Ministry of 

Environment and Port Metro Vancouver. A summary of recommendations stemming 

from the workshop was compiled and presented to Metro Vancouver for consideration. 

E C Environment Canada 1.1 

Environment Canada continues to participate in various committees related to 

stormwater (Stormwater Interagency Liaison Group or SILG) and receiving environments 

(Environmental Monitoring Committee or EMC). Although not directly linked 

to the LWMP process, EC is developing national regulations under the Fisheries Act 

for municipal wastewater effluents which will require upgrades to existing treatment 

facilities. 

M V Metro Vancouver 1.1 

Metro Vancouver is updating its 2001 Liquid Waste Management Plan (LWMP), the 

document that guides liquid waste programs and services in the region. The LWMP 

Update will focus on two goals: (1) Protecting public health and the environment, and 

(2) Managing liquid wastes affordably and effectively. 

Metro Vancouver is gathering input from municipalities, non-governmental organizations, 

businesses, residents and First Nations in order to draft a Liquid Waste Management 

Plan Update. A discussion document and Draft LWMP 2008 have been prepared 

and are available at: 

http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/wastewater/planning 

M O E Ministry of Environment 1.1 

The Ministry of Environment continues to work with Metro Vancouver (regarding 

regional wastewater) and member municipalities (regarding municipal stormwater) 

through the Metro Vancouver Liquid Waste Management Plan. As well, the Ministry 

administers effluent discharge permits for various industries bordering Burrard Inlet. 

P M V Port Metro Vancouver 1.1 

Port Metro Vancouver has no direct role in the management of liquid waste in Burrard 

Inlet. However, the Port Authorities Operations Regulations prohibit discharges that 

will or are likely to adversely affect water quality unless otherwise authorized by the 

Port Authority. Port Metro Vancouver does not authorize such discharges to Burrard 

Inlet unless a BIEAP partner with an appropriate mandate has provided favourable 

comments or unless the discharge for which an authorization has been requested is of 

a type that has been previously reviewed with BIEAP partner input.

12 



Develop and implement a coordinated ambient water quality monitoring program 

in Burrard Inlet. 


In February 2008, BIEAP produced the Burrard Inlet Environmental Indicators Report. 

This consultation document presented information on water and sediment quality, 

including baseline and trend measurements for copper, PCBs, and fecal coliform 

bacteria. 


In the beginning of 2004, Metro Vancouver initiated its Burrard Inlet Ambient 

Monitoring Program. The initial study undertaken was a compilation of existing data 

available for the inlet. In 2006, Metro Vancouver developed a Burrard Inlet Ambient 

Monitoring Strategy to allow the assessment of ambient conditions through water, 

sediment, fish health and fish tissue chemistry (biota) monitoring in the Outer 

Harbour, Inner Harbour, Central Harbour, Port Moody Arm and Indian Arm. In 2007, 

water column samples were collected in October/November and biota samples were 

collected in September/November. Draft 2007 Burrard Inlet Water Column Monitoring 

and 2007 Burrard Inlet Fish Health Survey reports are currently in review. In March/ 

April 2008, sediment monitoring was conducted and water column monitoring will be 

carried out in October/December 2008. 

MO E Ministry of Environment 1.2 

The Ministry of Environment is collaborating with Metro Vancouver on a coordinated 

receiving environment and ambient monitoring program that includes marine water, 

sediment and benthic fauna tissue chemistry. The Ministry will focus on Burrard Inlet 

Water Quality Objectives Attainment Monitoring at locations that are of interest to 

MOE. As well, the Ministry will collaborate on monitoring areas of joint interest to 

all parties involved with monitoring and reporting in Burrard Inlet. Sampling by the 

Ministry is planned in the fall/winter of 2008. 


Share information and contribute to the effort to eliminate non-point source (NPS) pollution 

in Burrard Inlet. 


In summer 2008, BIEAP initiated a comprehensive research study to compile all 

relevant guidelines and Best Management Practices (BMPs) that can be used to help 

prevent or reduce the introduction of non-point source pollution into the Burrard Inlet 

watershed. A series of educational products will soon be released to educate and 

empower members of the general public and local businesses who impact water 

quality in the region.

13 


C N V City of North Vancouver 1.4 

The City is continuing to partner with the Districts of North Vancouver and West 

Vancouver and the North Shore Recycling Program in the GardenSmart pesticide 

reduction initiative. In 2007, a telephone survey was conducted to assess the 

program’s effectiveness. 42% of City respondents reported a decrease (by 18%) or 

cessation (by 24%) of pesticide use over the past five years. In addition, 76% of City 

respondents were aware of information discouraging the use of pesticides in lawns 

and gardens, an increase over the previous 43% of respondents in the 2004 survey. 

The North Shore Recycling Program also offers the “Enviroscape” non-point source 

pollution workshop kit to North Shore teachers. 

A number of new rain gardens have been constructed throughout the City to improve 

stormwater quality. Also, planted bioswales and detention areas at field and lane 

perimeters adjacent to Kinsmen Field have been installed to prevent rock dust from the 

field from entering Mission Creek. 

Reconstruction of Wagg Pond to increase its storm water improvement functions is 

almost complete with the final stage involving additional excavation to create greater 

holding capacity along with the installation of wetland vegetation, a viewing platform 

along the shore, and interpretive signage. Water quality and benthic invertebrates will 

be monitored post-installation and compared with pre-installation metrics. 

C P M City of Port Moody 1.4 

The City of Port Moody has launched a new storm drain marking program in partnership 

with Fisheries and Oceans Canada. This program utilizes the stylized yellow fish 

emblem now produced on a vinyl decal. The decal has improved visibility and has a 

10-year lifespan. Community volunteers are marking 100 drains within the Stoney Creek 

watershed over the next twelve months. 

C o V City of Vancouver 1.4 

The City of Vancouver continues with the combined sewer main and building separation 

program with the goal to eliminate all combined sewer overflows by 2050. 

The City of Vancouver and Metro Vancouver are jointly proceeding with the “Greening” 

of the English Bay Interceptor. Currently, construction plans are being finalized to 

redirect three sewage pumping stations from the English Bay Interceptor to the Eighth 

Avenue Interceptor which will reduce combined sewer overflows into Burrard Inlet. 

This project involves tunnelling four blocks from 4th Avenue to 8th Avenue. 

A rainwater management study is being undertaken in the City’s combined sewer 

areas as well as separated sewer areas to look at the effects of runoff in highly 

urbanized areas. It will also look at potential BMPs to deal with runoff contaminants. 

This study is expected to be completed in 2009.

14 


D N V District of North Vancouver 1.4 

DNV operates and maintains 17 Oil & grit separators at key locations on the storm 

drainage system. As a result, DNV was able to intercept, trace, mitigate and prevent 

a significant discharge to Burrard Inlet that was migrating from contaminated private 

property. The District of North Vancouver passed the Pesticide Use Control Bylaw to ban 

the cosmetic use of pesticides, effective January 1, 2009. DNV also continues to enforce 

the Environmental Protection and Preservation Bylaw. 

D W V District of West Vancouver 1.4 

The District of West Vancouver continues to enforce the watercourse protection bylaw. 

New wetlands are also being installed at Ambleside Park, along with an oil and grit 

separator. DWV has also partnered with streamkeepers on a new educational and 

awareness brochure that will be distributed to homeowners. 

DF O Fisheries and Oceans Canada 1.4 

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada is a member of the Stormwater 

Interagency Liaison Group (SILG), an interagency group tasked with facilitating the 

co-ordination and sharing of common research related to stormwater management. DFO 

is also responsible for providing input into all ISMPs developed within the area. 


2008 has seen Metro Vancouver and its member municipalities undertake an update of 

the Liquid Waste Management Plan. New regional stormwater (rainwater) initiatives are 

under consideration in the updated plan, and once the plan is approved, the Stormwater 

Interagency Liaison Group (SILG) will determine the best way to implement and complete 

the new initiatives. 

Metro Vancouver recently held a workshop with SILG to discuss the successes that have 

been achieved in implementing stormwater source controls in the region’s municipalities. 

Also discussed were the policies and research that still require attention to allow decision 

makers to have more confidence when assessing the implementation of source controls 

in their municipalities. Results from the workshop were taken into consideration during 

the update of the LWMP. 

In 2007, through SILG, green infrastructure tours at UniverCity in Burnaby, Langley 

Township, and Delta were completed where source control initiatives were successfully 

showcased to more than 150 municipal and regional staff and politicians. Rain gardens, 

greenroofs, and pervious paving were some of the initiatives that were demonstrated 

to event participants through on-site tours and half day seminars. The following link 

provides more details on the highly successful events: 

www.waterbucket.ca/gi/index.asp?sid=61&id=278&type=single 

Data collection and analysis by University of British Columbia graduate students is 

continuing in the tree canopy rainfall interception study. Much of the infrastructure for 

this study was funded by SILG as the results of this study will be used by all member 

municipalities to quantify the benefits of the urban tree canopy. 

The website www.waterbucket.ca/rm continues to provide success stories for rainwater 

management initiatives.

15 



The Ministry participates with member municipalities on the Stormwater Interagency 

Liaison Group and through their Integrated Stormwater Management Plans to address 

stormwater issues. 

In addition, the MOE introduced a “Living Water Smart” initiative. Key actions that may 

be relevant to Burrard Inlet freshwater tributaries include: 

• By 2012, water laws will improve the protection of ecological values, provide for more 

community involvement, and provide incentives to be water efficient; 

• Legislation will recognize water flow requirements for ecosystems and species; 

• Government will require all users to cut back their water use in times of drought or 

where stream health is threatened; 

• Government will limit all new licences to 40-year terms in areas where there is high 

demand and pressure on water; 

• Government will support communities to do watershed management planning in 

priority areas; 

• By 2020, water use in British Columbia will be 33 percent more efficient; 

• By 2012, government will require all large water users to measure and report their 

water use; 

• Community development strategies will be developed to recognize the importance of 

riparian zones in adapting to climate change; 

• Adapting to climate change and reducing our impact on the environment will be a 

condition for receiving provincial infrastructure funding; 

• Fifty percent of new municipal water needs will be acquired through conservation by 

2020; 

• Government will fund household evaluations of water, energy and transportation use; 

• The Green Building Code will require water conservation plumbing fixtures such as low 

flush toilets; and 

• By 2010, government will mandate purple pipes in new construction for water collection 

and re-use 

For further information on BC MOE initiatives, please visit: 

www.livingwatersmart.ca/actions.html 


Port Metro Vancouver participates in efforts to eliminate non-point source pollution 

in Burrard Inlet. For instance, the Port uses its project and environmental review 

processes to promote continuous improvement in storm water management.

17 



Develop and enhance Industrial Best Management Practices (BMPs) and strengthen 

partnerships with the industrial sector. 

C PM City of Port Moody 1.5 

The City of Port Moody has improved communication with Pacific Coast Terminals 

regarding their operational projects. Pacific Coast Terminals is the largest port industry 

operating within the city. Letters are sent to neighbours alerting them to any upcoming 

work that is a change from normal terminal operations. This information sharing has had 

a positive effect when handling routine inquires from the public. 


The District of West Vancouver is currently working with private residents and Fisheries 

and Oceans Canada to protect and enhance the foreshore through innovative projects 

that have totalled over 1 million dollars in work. 


Environment Canada is involved in the development of Best Management Practices for 

wetlands through the Wetland Stewardship Partnership, which cover the activities of 

most sector groups. 

EC also administers the Boatyard BMP Program: a program that provides information on 

environmental best management practices and pollution prevention in boatyards. 

The following is a list of initiatives undertaken in 2008: 

• Numerous facilities have now installed containment systems that collect contaminated 

pressure-wash water and paint residues; 

• On-site wastewater treatment systems have also been installed at some facilities; 

• EC contributed to the development of a reference document on alternatives to 

copper-based anti-fouling paints titled “Alternative Fouling Control Systems” with 

Georgia Strait Alliance (GSA); 

• Promoted the BMP program and the reference document at the Vancouver 

International Boat Show and Victoria Boat, Fishing, Outdoor Show and Sale in 

February 2008; 

• GSA launched their Clean Marine BC program, a voluntary environmental recognition 

program for marinas, harbour authorities, yacht clubs and boatyards in BC; and 

• The first Clean Marine BC certification was completed by Westport Marina 

June 2008

18 



Metro Vancouver’s Sustainable Business Services (SBS) is working with Regulations 

and Enforcement to develop and promote “Codes of Performance” for the proper 

disposal of amalgam by the dental industry and the proper disposal of oil and grease 

by the food service industry. SBS has also been involved in industry awareness 

outreach activities addressing once through cooling water including assisting in the 

development of a draft model bylaw for municipalities in association with Regional 

Utility Planning. 


The following codes of practice and regulations were recently completed or amended by 

BC MOE: 

• Concrete and Concrete Products Industry Code of Practice 

• Contaminated Sites Regulation 

• Hazardous Waste Regulation 

• Organic Matter Recycling Regulation 

• Ozone Depleting Substances and Other Halocarbons Regulation 

• Slaughter and Poultry Processing Industries Code of Practice 

• Vehicle Dismantling and Recycling Industry Regulation 

As well, the Ministry of Environment continues to administer the authorization process 

associated with discharges to the environment. This includes pesticide and waste 

management plans; permits; licenses and approvals. 


Port Metro Vancouver will continue to participate in efforts to develop and enhance 

industrial BMPs in Burrard Inlet. It actively promotes continuous improvement in 

industrial environmental management through its project and environmental review 

processes, and facilitates periodic meetings of port industrial environmental managers 

(two or three meetings a year) to share information, improve practices and build 

relationships.

19 



Share information and explore ways how BIEAP could contribute to air quality initiatives 

in the region. 


The City of North Vancouver adopted its Local Action Plan for Greenhouse Gas 

Reduction in 2005. The City has implemented a number of corporate green fleet 

initiatives including vehicle right-sizing and the replacement of conventional vehicles 

with hybrids. In 2008, the City adopted a new Transportation Plan which gives priority 

to pedestrian and transit modes of transportation. The City is currently developing an 

outreach program aimed at reducing community CO2 emissions. 


The City of Port Moody has directed its Environmental Protection Committee to conduct 

a feasibility study for a waste to energy facility. If approved, it would be sited at the 

location of the former landfill site on the Barnet Highway above Burrard Inlet. For 

detailed information visit: 

www.cityofportmoody.com/City+Hall/Services/Garbage+and+Recycling/ 

Waste+to+Energy.htm 


The District of North Vancouver has initiated work to develop the Corporate & 

Community Climate Change Action Plans. Beginning in mid 2008 an exhaustive, 

comprehensive review of all corporate energy use in buildings and fleet was 

completed for District operations (hydro, gas, fuels) to develop an energy use and 

GHG emissions baseline. Taking into account the life cycle of the various assets and 

using the baseline analysis, the big energy uses will be identified and a potential 

retro fit program will be determined (2009) to effect energy cost savings and GHG 

reductions. 

The development of a Community Climate Change Action Plan (2009) will target 

reductions at the community level through long term transportation and land use 

planning to gain efficiencies in building design, transit and alternate energy use. GHG 

reduction targets will be set in the plan and incorporated into the District’s revised 

Official Community Plan (2010). 

The District of North Vancouver also works with Metro Vancouver on air quality issues 

as they arise from the industrial and commercial sectors.

20 



The following outlines Environment Canada’s recent work on regional air quality, 

followed by examples of current projects/programs: 

Transportation and Fuels 

• Continue efforts that support national clean air priorities related to air emissions 

from rail, marine, shipping and aviation 

° coordinate/chair the BC Locomotive and Rail Air Quality Working Group—a 

collaborative effort of the rail industry and government to reduce emissions 

from rail transportation; 

° demonstrate advanced emission reduction technology in a commuter rail 

application in the Lower Mainland; 

° test emissions from an older switching locomotive running on biodiesel 

• Provide technical expertise through environmental assessment processes 

° provide technical input to environmental assessments to reduce air quality 

impacts from major transportation infrastructure projects such as Gateway 

• Explore and advance regulatory mechanisms at the federal level through joint efforts 

with the provincial government related air pollutants/greenhouse gas emissions in 

the transportation sector 

° advise/support the provincial Ministry of Environment’s school bus retrofit 

program 

Marine and Ports 

• Support national efforts related to development of new international standards for 

controlling emissions from ships 

° together with US EPA Region 10, assisted in the development of the Northwest 

Ports Clean Air Strategy; 

° participate in emissions reduction technology demonstration projects (e.g. 

seawater scrubbing technology on a cruise ship home-ported in Vancouver); 

° together with the Chamber of Shipping of BC, co-chair the multi-stakeholder BC 

Marine Vessel Air Quality Work Group 

• Support national efforts related to development of new international standards for 

controlling emissions from ships 

° together with US EPA Region 10, assisted in the development of the Northwest 

Ports Clean Air Strategy; 

° participate in emissions reduction technology demonstration projects (e.g. 

seawater scrubbing technology on a cruise ship home-ported in Vancouver); 

° together with the Chamber of Shipping of BC, co-chair the multi-stakeholder BC 

Marine Vessel Air Quality Work Group 

continued…

21 


E C Environment Canada (continued) 1.6 

Air/Health Effects 

• Explore and implement clean air strategies, programs and partnerships to protect 

Canadians and their environment from the effects of harmful air pollutants. 

° participate in the BC Lung Association’s Air Quality & Health Steering 

Committee to promote the understanding of air/health effects & deliver initia- 

tives throughout BC (including the Lower Mainland) 

Transboundary Air 

• Support national commitments related to Canada-US transboundary air quality 

° together with US EPA Region 10, coordinate the Georgia Basin-Puget Sound 

International Airshed Strategy, including the work of initiatives to address 

agriculture, residential wood combustion, clean vehicles & fuels, and marine/ 

port emissions; 

° together with BC Ministry of Environment, coordinate visibility management 

efforts of the BC Visibility Coordinating Committee (e.g. planning/implementation 

of pilot projects in the Lower Fraser Valley transboundary airshed) 


The Ministry of Environment is working with Metro Vancouver and member 

municipalities on the following initiatives: 

• Two Idle-free Ambassadors are now working in the MV area with a third in the 

Sea-to-Sky corridor; 

• The woodstove exchange program is promoted through municipalities; 

• The Ministry has a PM2.5 Intentions paper that proposes to match the Provincial 

particulate matter standard to Metro Vancouver’s ambient PM2.5 standard; 

• The Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation is currently being updated 

For further information please visit: 

http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/#scien_pol_issues 

The Ministry also recently released the BC Air Action Plan. More details can be viewed 

at: http://www.bcairsmart.ca/about/highlights.html 

The plan’s 28 actions focus on targeting the worst pollutants, clean transportation, 

clean industry and clean communities. Action #13, Support Greener Ports and Marine 

Vessels, notes that the Provincial Government will work with ports and related industry 

organizations to test new ways to reduce emissions from port operations.

22 



Metro Vancouver is currently implementing its 2005 Air Quality Management Plan 

which contains 33 actions designed to: 

• Minimize the risk to public health from air pollution 

• Improve visibility 

• Minimize Greater Vancouver’s contribution to global climate change 

Under the 2005 AQMP, Metro Vancouver has initiated the Burrard Inlet Area Local Air 

Quality Study (BIALAQS) which is the first in a series of neighbourhood or “local” air 

quality studies. 

There are many air emission sources within the Burrard Inlet area including automobiles, 

buses, heavy construction equipment, industrial sources, locomotives, 

marine vessels, port operations, sea buses, small aircraft, and space heating. Metro 

Vancouver is conducting this study to determine how air quality varies within the 

Burrard Inlet area, and to assess whether the levels of air pollutants are higher in this 

area than other locations in Greater Vancouver. 

Many of the emission sources in the Burrard Inlet area run on fossil fuels. When fossil 

fuels are burned they create a variety of air pollutants, including particles that are so 

small they can be inhaled deeply into the lungs. These particles can aggravate asthma, 

increase respiratory or cardiovascular hospitalizations, and in some studies have been 

linked to cancer and premature death. 

Many people live relatively close to the emission sources within the Burrard Inlet area. 

According to the 2006 Canada Census, a relatively high percentage of elderly persons 

live within the Burrard Inlet area. This group is often more sensitive to the effects of 

air pollution. 

Over the next two years (2008-2009), Metro Vancouver staff will: 

• Collect detailed information about air emission sources in the Burrard Inlet area 

• Set up equipment to monitor air quality levels at several locations 

• Conduct air quality modeling in areas where monitoring is not possible 

More information about BIALAQS is available at: BIALAQS@metrovancouver.org

23 



Port Metro Vancouver has implemented a wide ranging air quality contaminant and 

greenhouse gas emissions reductions program for its jurisdiction. The program 

targets contributing port-related sectors including ocean going vessels, cargo handling 

equipment, and cargo transportation by truck and rail. Specific components of the 

program include a differentiated harbour dues program that incents shipping lines 

to implement emissions reduction or improvement measures and a truck licensing 

system that will remove older, more polluting trucks from the container fleet over the 

next few years (and has already eliminated most trucks built before 1990). 

The port is preparing to provide shore power at two cruise berths in time for the 2009 

cruise season, which will enable appropriately equipped cruise ships to shut off their 

power generating equipment while at berth. Shore power infrastructure has also been 

incorporated into three of the port’s four container terminals. Intermodal yard container 

handling equipment is electric powered at one of those terminals, and the port is 

working with and encouraging its tenants to find other ways to improve cargo handling 

equipment. One container terminal has tried hybrid technology with its rubber tire 

gantries (RTGs) with great success and as a result is expanding its fleet of hybrid RTGs. 

Also, Port Metro Vancouver is facilitating meetings of the railway companies that 

service the port with the intent of finding and implementing ways to reduce air quality 

contaminant and greenhouse gas emissions. Port Metro Vancouver uses its project 

and environmental review processes to promote continuous improvement in emissions 

reductions and to ensure that fugitive emissions of contaminants are mitigated to 

the fullest practical extent during project implementation. All of these measures were 

undertaken in full consultation and cooperation with the BIEAP partners, and this 

consultation and cooperation continues. 

Port Metro Vancouver is committed to continuous improvement in this regard, and 

to that end initiated a partnership with the Ports of Tacoma and Seattle to produce 

the Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy to ensure that environmental improvement 

measures do not become issues in competition between the ports. The port is also 

participating in coast-wide initiatives that include other B.C. ports and the major ports 

of the U.S. west coast.

24 



Develop a database to monitor historically contaminated lands and sediments in Burrard Inlet. 


Under the Canada Marine Act, Port Metro Vancouver is charged with the management 

of the lands within its proprietary boundaries, including historically contaminated 

lands. It is engaged in an active program of investigation of untenanted lands and 

is implementing remediation and risk management efforts where investigation 

outcomes indicate that these are warranted. Meanwhile, port tenants are required by 

provisions in their leases to undertake site investigations upon lease commencement 

and termination and, in most cases, periodically during their tenure of port lands. The 

outcomes of these investigations are reviewed by Port Metro Vancouver environmental 

programs staff to ensure that land use does not lead to environmental degradation and 

to ensure that appropriate mitigations are applied where necessary. 


Make use of global research efforts to provide management options for contaminated lands and sediments. 


Port Metro Vancouver searches global research efforts for management options in the 

context of its land management responsibilities (see Action Item 2.2). 


Confirm and acknowledge existing “protected” areas in Burrard Inlet. 


In 2006, the City of North Vancouver established Development Permit Areas for 

Streamside Protection and Enhancement. This process regulates development 

activities, including tree removal, within 15m of the top of all stream banks and within 

10m of the top of ravine banks. Within City boundaries, all significant natural areas are 

protected as parkland.

25 



The City of Port Moody launched an interpretive signage program along the Shoreline 

Trail and Trans Canada Trail. Twenty-nine signs are installed, illustrating Burrard Inlet 

history, geology, flora and fauna. 

One sign panel located at Rocky Point Park acknowledges Tidal Park at the head of Port 

Moody arm on Burrard Inlet. The city entered a 99-year lease agreement with Port Metro 

Vancouver to become primary caretaker of this area. Tidal Park now links five established 

parks and nine ecological zones to form a continuous 84.3 hectare reserve. Tidal Park is 

one of only two remaining intertidal flats left on Burrard Inlet. 


Following the conclusion of a 2-year ecological study of the western portion of the 

Maplewood Conservation Area (MCA), the District of North Vancouver has added the 

undeveloped Park Street road allowance to the western boundary of the Maplewood 

Conservation Area thereby adding to the MCA and providing a secure buffer to the 

adjacent commercial and industrial buildings and operations. 

The District of North Vancouver has created and adopted the Streamside Protection 

Development Permit Area to regulate development next to streams. 


The West Vancouver Rockfish Conservation Area was established to protect and 

conserve inshore rockfish. Whytcliff Marine Park is also a marine protected area 

located in Horseshoe Bay. 


EC has been working with The Nature Trust of British Columbia, Ducks Unlimited 

Canada, and the BC Ministry of Environment under the auspices of the Conservation 

Land Forum Land Management Committee to map all Crown and NGO conservation 

areas in BC at a cadastral scale. A database of standardized attributes has also been 

developed. Boundaries and attributes are expected to be completed later this year and 

will be available on the Community Mapping Network website (www.cmnbc.ca). 

Updates will be available on an annual basis. 

D F O Fisheries and Oceans Canada 3.1 

DFO continues to implement a Rockfish Conservation Strategy within the RCAs in 



Port Metro Vancouver confirms and acknowledges the existing protected areas within 

its proprietary jurisdiction, which includes Burrard Inlet east of the mouth of the 

Capilano River in North Vancouver.

PHOTOGRAPH: PETER WOODS

27 



Assist the Greater Vancouver Biodiversity Conservation Strategy by identifying areas of 

ecological significance in Burrard Inlet for future protection and enhancement. 

B C S Biodiversity Conservation Strategy 3.2 

The Biodiversity Conservation Strategy for the Greater Vancouver Region is a partnership 

initiative under Environment Canada’s Georgia Basin Action Plan involving Metro 

Vancouver, Environment Canada, BC Ministry of Environment, BIEAP-FREMP and local 

government agencies. 

In April 2006, the BCS Partnership published a major mapping project. The results 

include regional scale mapping of habitat types; identifying the location and 

geographic extent of remaining significant habitat areas; and evaluating relative 

biodiversity, habitat connectivity and the level of protection provided by various 

management classes. In terms of habitat types, wetlands and intertidal areas, along 

with old growth forests, receive the highest rating for biological diversity. At a regional 

scale, specific areas with high relative biodiversity within the BIEAP area include 

Maplewood Flats, the eastern end of Burrard Inlet in Port Moody, the head of Indian 

Arm and Spanish Banks. 

Next steps for the BCS Partnership will include a forum to publicly release the 

document outlining Strategic Directions for Biodiversity Conservation in the Region. 


While all significant natural areas within the City of North Vancouver are protected, as 

a relatively dense urban municipality, the acquisition of any other significant areas is 

unlikely. However, whenever properties adjacent to environmentally sensitive areas are 

redeveloped, the city investigates opportunities for additional habitat connections. The 

City manages its remnant habitat areas based on ecosystem function and biodiversity 

conservation objectives. The City’s Urban Forest Master Plan was completed in 2007. 

Ecosystem rehabilitation projects, mostly involving invasives removal and replanting, 

are currently underway in a number of areas. 


During the development of the South-East False Creek lands, Vancouver has created 

new fish and bird habitat by building a new island just east of the Cambie Street Bridge. 

This project has created a significant amount of marine shoreline and habitat areas 

adding to the ecosystem in this area. 


DFO continues to participate in the Burrard Inlet Environmental Review Committee 

(BERC) which reviews project proposals for shoreline development and other activities 

and strives to ensure that adverse effects on ecosystem features and functions are 

avoided or mitigated/compensated.

28 



DNV’s Alpine Recreation Study and Trail Classification has established and ranked 

areas on the upper mountains for habitat and recreational use, as well as BMP’s for 

trail construction and maintenance. 

A District staff member also sits on the BCS Steering Committee and is assisting with 

development of a Strategic Directions for Biodiversity Conservation document. 


The District of West Vancouver continues to work on baseline data collection 

to support ongoing protection and enhancement projects in the Ambleside and 

Dundarave areas. 


Through the Metro Vancouver Regional Growth Strategy (RGS) and the Ecological 

Health Plan currently in development, strategies will be developed to ensure 

ecosystem function. EC will have involvement in these regional processes through the 

implementation of the Biodiversity Strategy for Metro Vancouver. 


Metro Vancouver has completed regional biodiversity mapping of the area which will 

build on the three MV management plans (Liquid Waste Management Plan, Drinking 

Water Management Plan, and Air Quality Management Plan). 

Metro Vancouver is also in the process of developing an Ecological Health Plan, 

building on the successes of the Greater Vancouver Biodiversity Conservation Strategy 

Partnership. This Plan is expected to be complete by the close of 2009. Metro 

Vancouver also expects to begin another round of public consultation on its draft 

Regional Growth Strategy in late 2008. 


Port Metro Vancouver actively cooperates in the identification of areas of ecological 

significance through its role in BIEAP. 


Use legislative tools such as Marine Protected Areas, Wildlife Management Areas and 

ecological corridors to protect and enhance valuable areas in the Burrard Inlet ecosystem. 


The city’s Environmentally Sensitive Areas strategy has been approved by Council and 

provides best practice guidelines to improve the ecological health of the community. 

The removal of fish barriers, restoration of streams corridors, planting of streamside 

vegetation and daylighting of creeks are some examples.

29 



In 2006, the City of North Vancouver established Development Permit Areas for 

Streamside Protection and Enhancement. This process regulates development activities, 

including tree removal, within 15m of the top of all stream banks and within 10m 

of the top of ravine banks. 


Utilizing Part 26 of the Local Government Act, The District of North Vancouver 

established the Streamside Protection Development Permit Area. 


The District of West Vancouver administers the head lease on Whytcliff Marine Park 

and reviews and controls activities within the intertidal and subtidal areas. 


Metro Vancouver’s Source Control Bylaw regulates non-domestic dischargers to the 

sewer system. For Burrard Inlet, potential ecosystem impacts are possible through 

discharge of treated effluent from the Lions Gate Wastewater Treatment Plant. On 

the North Shore there are relatively few non-domestic sources to sewer. A significant 

action has been the inclusion of a Dental Code of Practice in the Bylaw for the control 

of mercury and other amalgam metals in the discharge from dental offices. The Code 

of Practice for Dental Operations, as well as the entire Source Control Bylaw, can be 

accessed at: 

www.metrovancouver.org/boards/bylaws/Bylaws/GVSDD_Bylaw_299.pdf 


Port Metro Vancouver participates in authorizing the protection of ecological sensitive 

areas within its proprietary jurisdiction where this can be done in the context of its 

Canada Marine Act mandate. 


Provide information and resources to all municipal, regional and port planning initiatives 

along the shoreline and in adjoining watersheds. 

The BIEAP partners are regularly consulted on the development of land use plans around Burrard Inlet. Information about 

the various initiatives is also shared at the quarterly meetings of the BIEAP Plan Implementation Committee; below is a list 

of some of the planning initiatives ongoing around the Inlet and its watersheds. 


The City of North Vancouver, in partnership with Squamish Nation and others, is 

currently planning for construction of a new waterfront greenway, the “Spirit Trail”, 

which will provide for public access along some sections of the waterfront.

30 



The City of Port Moody is planting streamside vegetation at Ailsa Park. This park 

forms at the headwaters of Stoney Creek. 


Work is well underway to reduce and eliminate combined sewer overflows at the 

downtown Burrard Street outfall and the False Creek Crowe Street outfall (in the area 

of the proposed Olympic Athletes Village), through Vancouver’s sewer separation 

program. Elimination of combined sewer overflows at these locations is expected 

within the next two years. 

The City is continuing with the South East False Creek flats development along the 

south shore using sustainable practices. This includes a new seawall walkway, green 

building designs, green roofs, rainwater reuse and stormwater swales and ponds. 


The District of North Vancouver is continuing to advance the “Indian Arm Development 

Policy”. Work also continues on the Seymour Greenway to connect the upper 

mountain to the inlet as well as the alignments for the east-west “Spirit Trail” connection 

across the North Shore. 


2006/07 saw the successful planning, construction and completion of eight pilot 

projects along the West Vancouver shoreline from the mouth of the Capilano River to 

Navvy Jack Point. The goals accomplished by each pilot project included increased 

wave protection, reduced shoreline erosion, habitat enhancement and improved public 

access and awareness as to the importance of the shoreline to the community. 

In December 2008, DWV developed a Shoreline Preservation Plan (SPP) to address 

short and long term damage to the District’s waterfront. The SPP accomplishes this 

by developing near shore and subtidal works that reduce environmental and physical 

shoreline damage caused by such factors as: 

• urbanization and shoreline planning methods of the past; 

• climate change and its effect of raising sea levels; 

• waves driven by storm events and increased ship traffic; and, 

• interruption of the upland and marine sediment transport systems 

The success of the eight pilot projects was the first phase in the SPP’s multi-year 

program of shoreline enhancement and preservation. The next goals of the SPP include 

additional near shore intertidal pilot structures at Lawson Park, Navvy Jack Point, Marr 

Creek and sections of the shoreline from Navvy Jack Point to Dundarave Pier. Major 

projects have also been identified and developed based on the successes of the first 

eight pilots and include subtidal works located offshore from Lawson Pier, Navvy Jack 

Point and along the shore form Navvy Jack Point to Dundarave Pier.

31 



EC has been a key partner in the development of the Green Bylaws Toolkit, which has 

been provided to all regional and municipal planning offices. 

MV Metro Vancouver 4.1 

Metro Vancouver is developing a new Regional Growth Strategy. A preliminary draft 

has been prepared and presents the key goals and policy directions under consideration 

by the Land Use and Transportation Committee. MV will start another round of public 

consultation once the Metro Vancouver Board releases the draft Regional Growth 

Strategy for discussion, expected in the fall of 2008. 

Metro Vancouver staff are also involved with the BC Marine Vessel Air Quality Working 

Group, a government-industry collaboration working on reducing air emissions impacts 

from marine vessels and port operations. The working group is co-chaired by Environment 

Canada and the Chamber of Shipping of BC and members include Vancouver 

Fraser Port Authority, Metro Vancouver, Transport Canada, BC Ministry of Environment, 

BC Ministry of Transportation, BC Ferries and others. 

P MV Port Metro Vancouver 4.1 

Where this does not conflict with its Canada Marine Act mandate and responsibilities, 

Port Metro Vancouver actively facilitates planning initiatives throughout its proprietary 

jurisdiction (Burrard Inlet east of the mouth of the Capilano River in North Vancouver). 

The port works actively with a number of its municipal neighbours in this regard, either 

directly through liaison committees (e.g., City of Vancouver/Port Liaison Committee 

and the East Vancouver Port Lands planning committee) and project specific liaisons 

(e.g., City of Burnaby with its on-going plans for Barnet Marine Park and with the 

Province of B.C. and the Tsleil Waututh Nation on the formation of Say Nuth Khaw 

Yum park in the northern part of Indian Arm) or indirectly through BIEAP committees 

and partnerships. 


Coordinate and provide support and technical expertise to stewardship and community 

stakeholder groups in their efforts to improve the environment. 


The City supports and coordinates with a number of stewardship groups, including 

the North Shore Streamkeepers, the North Shore Fish and Game Club, the North 

Shore Black Bear Society, and the Evergreen Mahon Park Stewards. In 2008, the City 

established a Parks and Environment Grant Program to provide funding support for 

stewardship initiatives.

32 



In-kind support to the Burrard Inlet Marine Enhancement Society, Port Moody 

Ecological Society and Burke Mountain Naturalists is an on-going function of the city’s 

environmental services division. 


The City of Vancouver is working with the Spanish Banks streamkeepers group to 

enhance the water quality in Spanish Banks Creek. This creek has recently been 

rejuvenated and an increased number of salmon have been returning to the creek. The 

City is now developing plans to redirect additional cool, clean water toward the creek 

along North West Marine Drive to enhance the low flows in the summer. 


The District of North Vancouver Parks Department coordinates a large group of 

volunteers throughout the year on numerous habitat restoration projects. 


The District of West Vancouver is working in cooperation with the Streamkeepers 

Program and the West Vancouver Shoreline Preservation Society endeavours to 

protect and enhance aquatic habitats (including surf smelt enhancement). 


Along with a consortium of other agencies, Environment Canada, Fisheries and Oceans 

Canada and BC MOE form the Wetland Stewardship Partnership (WSP)—a multiagency 

group dedicated to the conservation of wetlands and other sensitive ecosystems. 

In November 2007, the WSP released the Green Bylaws Toolkit, an important 

resource for understanding how local governments and developers can safeguard the 

environment from a regional to a site level. The Green Bylaws Toolkit and associated 

user support is also available to community and stewardship groups, who are using the 

tools and advocating for the use of conservation bylaws in their communities. 


In the Pacific Region, Fisheries and Oceans Canada has a long history of stewardship 

and community involvement through initiatives such as The Community Involvement 

Program. The Community Involvement Program brings people from communities 

throughout the province together to participate in locally-based enhancement efforts. 

Individual Programs are as follows: 

• Community Advisors (CAs) are the key liaisons between DFO and communitybased 

projects. Each CA supports a number of community projects. For more 

information about community projects in and around Burrard Inlet visit their 

website at: 

www-heb.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/community/dir/hollickk_e.htm 

continued…

33 


D F O Fisheries and Oceans Canada (continued) 4.2 

• The Streamkeepers Program trains and supports citizens in the monitoring, 

protection and improvement of aquatic habitat. The Streamkeepers program 

has increased public awareness and involvement at the local level. For more 

information on the Streamkeepers Program visit the program website at: 

www.pskf.ca 

• The Stream to Sea Program utilizes a range of educational material to teach 

schoolchildren about the value of salmon as a resource. The goal of the 

program is to foster students and educators in the Pacific Region that are 

“well-informed on aquatic ecosystems, motivated by a stewardship ethic and 

contributing to the health and sustainability of their community.” 


Metro Vancouver supported the Spanish Bank Streamkeepers and Fisheries & Oceans 

Canada (DFO) in upgrading fisheries habitat in the lower reaches of the Creek in the 

early 2000’s (fence building and interpretive signage by Metro Vancouver). This project 

was preceded (late 1990’s) by the day-lighting of the Creek between NW Marine Drive 

and English Bay by members of the Musqueam Creek Committee, Fisheries & Oceans 

Canada (DFO) and Vancouver Park Board. Metro Vancouver Regional Parks continues 

to support the on-going work of the Spanish Bank Streamkeepers and Fisheries & 

Oceans Canada (DFO) in monitoring the Creek. 

Metro Vancouver also supports volunteer efforts (for example Wreck Beach Preservation 

Society) to undertake annual beach clean-up in the fall. MV provides tools, 

supplies, and disposal services. In addition, Metro Vancouver supports Fisheries & 

Oceans Canada (DFO) in the operation of the Visitors Centre at the Capilano Hatchery. 

2008 marks the fourth year that the crab study at Belcarra has been in operation. This 

study is done by Beachkeeper volunteers under the direction of a Metro Vancouver 

staff member—the Beachkeepers Volunteer Coordinator. The Beachkeepers are trained 

in methods of how to approach people to ask them to participate in the study, and also 

to ask to measure the crabs sitting in peoples’ buckets, to make sure they are male, 

and of legal size. They know how and when to disengage if necessary. Their main role, 

beyond doing the crab study, is to educate people, rather than to enforce fisheries 

regulations. This is the only study in British Columbia, possibly in Canada, which 

records information on recreational crabbing. 


The Ministry of Environment has been engaged in a stewardship training project with 

Tsleil Waututh Nation (TWN) as follow up to the 2007 oil spill that contaminated birds 

and marine life in Burrard Inlet. The Ministry has also working in collaboration with 

TWN to develop a Management Plan for Say Nuth Khaw Yum Heritage Park/Indian Arm 

Provincial Park. The plan includes stewardship approaches taken by the First Nation.

34 



Where this does not conflict with its Canada Marine Act mandate and responsibili- 

ties, Port Metro Vancouver continues to provide support and technical expertise to 

stewardship and community stakeholder groups. For instance, it recently supported 

and facilitated an eelgrass transplantation project undertaken in Port Moody Arm by the 

Pacific Wildlife Federation. The port also directly sponsors organizations like the Pacific 

Salmon Foundation and participates in numerous community events like Port Moody’s 

Fingerling Festival and the North Shore Coho Festival. It offers environmental presentations 

to educational groups, local businesses and community groups. 


Update and promote the BIEAP Shoreline Development Guidelines. 


The BIEAP Shoreline Development Guidelines are aimed at parties proposing to 

undertake physical works within or adjacent to the waters and foreshore of Burrard 

Inlet. Guiding principles are provided by the Burrard Environmental Review Committee 

(BERC) member agencies, along with more specific guidance for the use of fill, 

dredging, and required field surveys. The Guidelines were revised in 2005 and have 

since been promoted via the BIEAP website and BIEAP web toolbox. Copies of the 

guidelines have also been circulated to surrounding local government agencies for 

distribution to municipal staff and members of the public. 


Develop pilot projects in cooperation with the public and private sectors to showcase 

innovative environmentally sensitive designs. 


The City of North Vancouver has completed a number of recent projects, including the 

installation of rain gardens, bioswales, and the use of permeable paving. The new City 

library is being constructed to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) 

standard and features solar hot water panels. 


The Polygon Development at Klahanie has daylighted a section of Pigeon Creek 

creating approximately 600 metres of new parkland. The lengthened creek provides an 

additional buffer to a heavily urbanized creek improving water quality in Burrard Inlet.

35 



The District of North Vancouver was selected by SolarBC as one of six communities 

in BC to become a “solar community”. The District will promote solar applications as 

an alternate energy source and establish a demonstration, solar-hot water project on a 

municipal building. DNV is developing a “Green Building” policy to promote all aspects 

of efficient building design and use of alternate energy sources. 


The District of West Vancouver is currently engaged in numerous both private and 

publicly funded projects that showcase environmentally sensitive designs including 

the construction of the West Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre. 


DFO, as part of SILG, has assisted in the promotion of environmentally sensitive 

designs with respect to rainwater management which has resulted in projects 

undertaken by various municipalities (e.g. City of Vancouver Crown Street). 


Metro Vancouver’s Sustainable Business Services coordinated two half day workshops 

for partner municipalities to explore the development of Green Building Codes and 

Regulations in association with the Cascadia Green Building Council in 2007. Also, 

MV held six “LEED for contractors” training workshops in 2006, 2007, and in 2008. 

This is an ongoing outreach initiative. 

P M V Metro Vancouver 4.6 

Port Metro Vancouver is not currently involved in any pilot projects intended to 

showcase environmentally sensitive designs. However, it actively encourages environmentally 

sensitive design through its project and environmental review processes, and 

to that end ensured that its own new headquarters office met LEED gold standards 

when it moved a few years ago. 


Explore and develop models to deal with the cumulative effects of development within 



In the fall of 2008, the BIEAP Plan Implementation Committee has established a 

sub-group with members from Environment Canada, Metro Vancouver, BC Ministry of 

Environment and Port Metro Vancouver to explore and develop models to deal with the 

cumulative effects of development within Burrard Inlet.

36 


DNV District of North Vancouver 4.8 

The District of North Vancouver is working with UBC on a research project to 

determine the rainwater capture by tree canopy cover. The data will be used to add 

another layer for calculation of storm water management for development scenarios in 

the ‘Water Balance Model.” 


In 2007 Metro Vancouver initiated the Burrard Inlet Area Local Air Quality Study which 

is the first in a series of neighbourhood or “local” air quality studies being developed 

under the regional Air Quality Management Plan. The Burrard Inlet area was selected 

because of the number and variety of emission sources present, including automobiles, 

buses, heavy construction equipment, industrial sources, locomotives, marine vessels, 

port operations, sea buses, small aircraft, and heating. In addition, the population 

distribution and demographics can lead to higher exposure or sensitivity to the effects 

of air pollution. 

The study is intended to determine how air quality varies within the Burrard Inlet area 

and how it compares to other areas in Metro Vancouver. The study uses a combination 

of emission source characterization, air quality monitoring and modeling in order to 

identify areas of elevated pollutant concentrations, and the emission sources which 

contribute to those elevated exposure levels. 


The MOE is currently undertaking a multi-watershed examination of the cumulative 

effects of development on ecosystem health initiated by both Environmental 

Stewardship and Environmental Protection Divisions. The goal of this project is to help 

MOE refine its approach in providing guidance to stormwater management (ISMP) 

processes. The objectives of this work include: 

Determine whether implemented conservation/ mitigation tools and incentives associated 

with urban and rural development are effective provide a written assessment of 

tools available in other jurisdictions for predicting urban water quality impacts, review 

water quality correlations to land use metrics in the literature, determine the adaptability 

to current local government stormwater management framework and a list of 

recommendations for the Ministry to consider to help stakeholders move toward being 

able to predict impacts to water quality and water uses. 

The project watersheds include Hyde Creek (Coquitlam), Clayburn Creek (Abbotsford), 

Elk Creek (Chilliwack). While no Burrard Inlet watersheds are included in this study, 

the forecasting and management frameworks developed can be adapted to all urban 

streams. 

For Burrard Inlet, the Ministry supports Metro Vancouver’s use of the ‘Cautions, 

Warnings and Triggers’ approach for assessing water quality impacts and trends. As 

most water quality concerns in such an intensively used waterbody are cumulative in 

nature, due to multiple sources and contaminants, a collaborative approach is needed 

to effectively address them. The Ministry would support the use of the BIEAP Management 

and PIC Committees to lead such a collaborative approach.

Environment 

Canada 

Fisheries and Oceans 

Canada 

Transport 

Canada 

Enivironnement 

Canada 

Transports 

Canada 

Pêches et Océans 

Canada

501 —5945 Kathleen Avenue 

Burnaby, BC 

V5H 4 J7 

Tel: 604 775 5756 

Fax: 604 775 5198 

www.bieapfremp.org 

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