Connected Waters

The Fraser River is known as one the most important wild Pacific salmon rivers in the world. At the same time, in the lower reaches near Vancouver, the river, its side channels, and tributaries have been diked and controlled to stop the waters from inundating the floodplain. This reach of river is important overwintering and rearing habitat for juvenile salmon. As the climate changes and extreme weather become more frequent, the waterways, wetlands and floodplains of the lower mainland are brought into stark focus. Decisions are now being made on how best to live with water. How can we explore nature-based, comprehensive, and multi-beneficial solutions to protect our communities, restore salmon, and build resilient ecosystem?