Good News from the Biosphere - Fall 2024
We are pleased to share good news stories from our partners and collaborators in our region. Here are some of the many news headlines since the Summer. The collective efforts of individuals and small and large organizations always makes a difference.
Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation)
The Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw Climate Legacy Strategy sets a path for climate action, focusing on both adaptation and mitigation efforts to protect the environment and future generations. This strategy is a crucial step in addressing climate change through community-driven initiatives and sustainable solutions.
On November 2nd, the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw unveiled the Úxwumixw 2050, their Generational Plan, which is a vision for a sustainable and thriving future, emphasizing cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. It sets goals for long-term prosperity, including enhancing governance, protecting natural resources, and fostering a resilient economy. This strategic framework focuses on aligning future growth with Indigenous knowledge and values.
The West Vancouver Memorial Library has introduced Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Sníchim kits for borrowing, with resources like dictionaries, audio tools, and cultural games. This initiative supports Squamish language learning and strengthens cultural ties.
Growing minds, nurturing nature: education happening in our Biosphere Region
Capilano University will launch five new programs at its Squamish campus in fall 2025, enhancing its connection to the Sea to Sky region. The new offerings include a Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Environment and Society, Education Assistant Certificate, Diploma in Kinesiology, and Tourism Management Co-operative Education Diploma. These programs aim to support local student and business needs while fostering an engaging learning environment.
West Vancouver Schools and the District of West Vancouver are collaborating to plant trees and foster environmental stewardship in the community. Three schools in our Biosphere Region will participate: Eagle Harbour Montessori, Gleneagles Ch'axáý Elementary, and Rockridge Secondary. This initiative aims to enhance local green spaces and educate students on sustainability practices. The project emphasizes the importance of trees in improving air quality and providing habitat while engaging students in hands-on learning experiences.
This past summer, the Learn-to-Camp program offered by ParksCanada welcomed new campers to experience the beauty of nature in Átl'ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound. Participants gained hands-on skills for exploring Canada’s amazing landscapes from setting up a tent to cooking outdoors. Programs like these help more people connect with nature and build lasting respect for our environment.
A win for conservation, new community spaces, and the best spots to watch the salmon run
The Bowen Island Conservancy has acquired 160 acres at Cape Roger Curtis, safeguarding coastal and inland areas, including the Huszar Creek corridor. Thanks to generous donors, this land will be preserved, creating a legacy of natural beauty. This is an exciting milestone for conservation in the Átl'ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region. Read the Bowen Island Undercurrent article here.
Miyiwts Park Waterfront Landing in Squamish is a community project that aims to enhance public access to the waterfront while preserving natural habitats. The design incorporates recreational areas, pathways, and facilities that promote outdoor activities and ecological awareness. The park will serve as a gathering space, encouraging community engagement and stewardship of the local environment. Read the Squamish Chief Article here.
The salmon run is still happening. See it in action at three local locations reccomended by the Pacific Salmon Foundation.
November & December Terminal Creek Fishway / Bowen Island Hatchery - Bowen Island Coho & Chum
November - February Tenderfoot Creek Hatchery - Squamish - Coho & Chinook
October - November (Chum) & November - February (Coho) Mamquam Spawning Channel - Squamish - Coho & Chum
Progress and efforts dedicated to safeguarding and revitalizing our natural resources for future generations
The allowable annual cut for Tree Farm Licence 38 near Squamish is reduced by 53%. Squamish Nation spokesperson Sxwixwtn (Wilson Williams) supports the move, calling it a key step toward restoring ecosystems damaged by over a century of industrial logging. Read more here.
Gibsons' integration of natural assets with traditional infrastructure earned recognition in the UN-Habitat's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Canada Report. This approach reduces costs and serves as a model for other BC communities, emphasizing the importance of valuing and protecting natural assets like ponds and aquifers.
Marine Stewardship Initiative (MSI) partnered with the Ocean Legacy Foundation to remove nearly 17 tons of marine debris from Átl'ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound from September over four days with two barge loads. The crew cleaned four sites, including Gibsons and Gambier Island, removing large amounts of debris like tires, buoys, and styrofoam blocks. The collected waste was transported to Steveston for recycling or disposal, with community support playing a key role in the success of the cleanup. 81% of the debris was recyclable.
