Habitat Compensation Island Tour

Habitat Compensation Island Tour

History / Why was it created ?

Construction for Habitat Island began in 2007 and finished in 2009 as a new habitat for species. It was built to make up for the lost portion of the natural waterfront which was used to develop island and buildings for the 2010 olympics(Southeast False Creek). The creation of the shoreline/island was required by the Department of Fisheries & Oceans because other shoreline and the resources were being taken during urban development of the buildings.

How was it created?

Materials such as 60,000m3 (cubic metres) of rocks, cobble, gravel, boulders and sand were used as well as leftover dirt and other materials from village excavation. All of the materials were placed in shallow water and were planted with over 2000 native trees, plants, grasses, and dead trees for birds to lay on. Deep layers of soil was added to provide nutrients for trees. Since it’s surrounded by water and high tides, it’s a sanctuary for birds. The fencing around some trees is to protect them from the beavers eating the bark.

What is a wetland?

Lowland with soil that’s covered by enough water to support aquatic plants and wildlife.

Sightings

-ISLAND

1. Intertidal includes barnacles and moss on rocks, kelp and crabs.
2. Bird houses built high up on trees.
3. Island is surrounded by tall and dense trees including pine and cedar with many flowers and shrubs grown.

-WETLAND

1. Includes a lake, waterway built throughout the park which filters the rain and returns to false creek.
2. Connected to habitat island and is a naturalized which means it was originally not a wetland before, but became one after construction.
3. There’s a dog park next to it as well as separate walking and biking paths.