Coquitlam installed fencing last week around Maple Creek to protect sensitive salmon habitat.
COQUITLAM, B.C., March 23, 2021 – Coquitlam installed fencing last week around Maple Creek to protect sensitive salmon habitat from unauthorized hiking and illegal dumping.
The City’s Urban Forestry staff put up the fences near Tahsis Avenue and Ozada Avenue, south of the tot lot, to block unofficial trails being used to access or vandalize the Maple Creek watershed.
Report Vandalism and Damage
Sandbags and other debris were regularly being dumped into a culvert in the area, obstructing water flows to Maple Creek’s off-channel pond and drying up its sensitive salmon habitat, used primarily by Coho salmon.
Residents who spot damage or vandalism in Coquitlam parks and forested areas are asked to contact Parks Customer Service at 604-927-6300.
Many Safe Trail Options to Explore
Residents who enjoy exploring Coquitlam’s forests are urged to stay on official trails – not only to avoid disturbing sensitive habitat, but because unauthorized trails are not maintained or monitored for hazards such as potentially falling trees.
Coquitlam has more than 90 kilometres of marked trails, with options to suit those seeking a quiet solitary stroll or access to parks and amenities. As the weather improves and the outdoors beckon, residents are encouraged to check out www.coquitlam.ca/trails for maps and information about the trail system.
Help Protect Fish and Aquatic Life
Did you know that storm drains – and anything poured into them – empty directly into local creeks and streams?
Pool and cleaning chemicals, pesticides, paint, oil, fertilizer and other toxins require careful disposal. Using storm drains to dispose of them is not only harmful to fish and other wildlife – killing thousands of fish in local waterways in recent years – but could lead to penalties.
Do your part:
Media contact:
Erin Gorby
Urban Forestry and Parks Services Manager
City of Coquitlam
604-927-6330
egorby@coquitlam.ca