The Stream Team at Veins of Life Watershed Society

Stream Assessments

The Team conducts habitat surveys which include water quality testing, invertebrate sampling, plant identification, juvenile fish trapping, physical surveying, mapping, and an overall assessment of the condition of the stream. Once these factors are taken into consideration we develop a strategy to address any problems.

Stream Restoration

With the data we have collected we can identify problem areas and plan restoration projects. Some of our projects have involved planting native vegetation to improve water quality and provide habitat for fish and wildlife along Durrell Creek, an area highly impacted by pollution and development. At one site on lower Craigflower Creek, we removed two tons of debris that was obstructing salmonid passage. This project also involves planting for bank stabilization and in-stream placement of coarse woody debris to provide fish habitat.

These projects involve working in partnership with the BC Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, the CRD, BC Hydro, and other enhancement groups. Other projects we have participated in include the clean-up of the Gorge Waterway, removal of invasive plant species such as purple loosestrife, and salvage of stranded salmonids.