Author(s)

M. A. Adams1, B. G. Wernick2 & L. H. Nikl2

Abstract

The Southeast False Creek (SEFC) lands occur within Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The comprehensive redevelopment of the shoreline of the SEFC Lands included modification of the marine environment. Redevelopment impacted marine fish habitats as defined by the federal Fisheries Act. In accordance with the Act, the overall redevelopment was required to create habitats to compensate for impacts. The statutory requirement to create habitats does not pursue the restoration of ecological functions within the affected environment. In contrast, the design of the SEFC shoreline embraces the process of ecological restoration. The design, however, acknowledges that redevelopment cannot restore the shoreline to its original natural condition. It can, though, reclaim ecological functions within False Creek. In this regard, ecological reclamation defines the design philosophy for redevelopment of the SEFC shoreline. Redevelopment of the shoreline has resulted in significant enhancement of the False Creek ecosystem. The delivery of new fish habitats is a byproduct of the reclamation of ecological functions. Marine life, typical of southwestern British Columbia, has benefited from enhancement efforts. Residents of Vancouver, themselves part of the False Creek ecosystem, are also afforded benefits. Exposure to the dynamics of the ecosystem fosters an appreciation of the natural condition, which evolves into a sense of ownership and stewardship, and, ultimately, conservation of ecological functions. Keywords: Southeast False Creek, ecological reclamation, ecological restoration, ecological design, ecosystem enhancement, marine enhancement, habitat island.

Keywords

Southeast False Creek, ecological reclamation, ecological restoration, ecological design, ecosystem enhancement, marine enhancement, habitat island.