The Brooksdale Conservation Team is celebrating a decision by the City of Surrey’s Council that will better protect streams within Surrey. Equipped with years of data and first-hand knowledge of the Little Campbell River Watershed, A Rocha staff presented at the City’s council meeting on September 12th advocating for more protective measures around feeder streams to the Little Campbell River.
Later in that same meeting the Council adopted new Streamside Protection measures through amendments to their Official Community Plan bylaw: specifically, adding a new Development Permit Area and Guidelines for Sensitive Ecosystems, including defined streamside protection setback areas. You can find details and guidance documents online.
In plain language, the City’s decision means sensitive streamside habitat has a better chance to thrive!
We support and celebrate these changes because they will help protect forested areas identified in Surrey’s Biodiversity Conservation Strategy. In turn, this protection will allow for more continuous forested habitat and also provide clearer direction and greater protection for streamside area buffers. All these good outcomes serve the City’s desire for sustainability as described in Surrey’s updated Sustainability Charter.
A Rocha’s conservation work at Brooksdale and throughout the Little Campbell Watershed is contributing to the City’s sustainability goals.
