Ecosystem Restoration at Robert Burnaby Park
About this project
Robert Burnaby Park is a vital part of our city’s urban forest. Many creeks and streams run through the park and over half of its area is critical wildlife habitat. To make sure this sensitive ecosystem is protected and climate-resilient for generations to come, we’re taking on an environmental restoration of the park. This fall, we’ll be removing invasive species and planting 3,000 new trees. During this work, some trails and areas of the park may be closed. Thank you for your patience and for respecting restoration fencing while we work to protect this natural treasure for generations to come.
Why restoration is needed
A healthy forest has a mix of trees at different ages, heights, and species. As Robert Burnaby’s mature trees age and approach the end of their lifespan, we’re ensuring there is a ‘next generation’ of diverse trees native to the local ecosystem to be tomorrow’s tree canopy. The health and diversity of the plants under the tree canopy are important to the overall health of the forest too and by replacing the invasive species from the ground cover plants, we’re protecting the important habitats for the fish, animals, birds and other life that the park is home to.
To find out more about the urban forest and how the City is protecting Burnaby’s tree canopy, you can read our Urban Forest Strategy.
What's happening now?
We’ve done an environmental survey of the park and identified sites for restoration, with 6 being completed this fall. Our team is currently assessing each site for hazard trees and mitigating the risk, preparing the sites by removing invasive plant species, conducting soil aeration and mulching and installing a combination of permanent and semi-permanent fencing to protect the planting areas. Restoration planting will begin in October.
Register for a tree planting
If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and help plant trees, you’re invited to sign up for a planting session in November. These all-ages, rain-or-shine sessions are co-hosted by the Invasive Species Council of Metro Vancouver, who will provide instruction, gloves, all the required tools and refreshments. No experience is necessary, so if you’re ready to help restore a critical wildlife habitat, enjoy some fresh air and meet new friends, register early. These sessions are expected to fill up quickly!
- Thursday, November 6 from 10:30-noon
- Thursday, November 6 – 12:30-2:30 pm – Overflow session if the morning session is at capacity