Major investment supports B.C.’s Fraser River Estuary

Fraser River Estuary: a refuge for waterfowl

This habitat is a haven for finned and feathered species alike. The Fraser River Estuary is an area of continental significance for North American ducks, geese and swans. Migration paths of many birds converge here, as waterfowl and shorebirds travelling from northern and prairie breeding grounds stop to refuel on their way to winter in California, Mexico, Central and South America or the South Pacific. Other species choose to make the Fraser River Estuary their home year-round.

Defence against sea level rise

In the face of a changing environment, impacts of coastal flooding and sea-level rise are growing. Residents are bracing themselves for more frequent and severe floods—and seeking solutions. As the transition zones between the land and water, coastal habitats like the Fraser River Estuary are a powerful, natural form of defence. The marshes and sea grasses that line the Fraser River Estuary act as a buffer from storm surges and rising tides, while also helping to hold excess water.

Fighting back against invasive Spartina

A portion of the funds DUC receives from the Coastal Restoration Fund will be used to battle an invasive species that’s threatening to overtake coastal mudflats in the Fraser River Estuary. Spartina is an invasive cordgrass that destroys habitat by outcompeting native plants like eelgrass. DUC staff are actively working to map and remove invasive Spartina from this landscape, which will allow the mudflats to flourish and provide waterfowl and other wildlife with the food they need.

Visit the Fraser River Estuary during any season and you’ll see that it’s a magical place. The ebb and flow of the tides creates a unique link between B.C.’s land, water, wildlife and people. Funding from the Coastal Restoration Fund will help ensure this link remains strong so future generations will continue to benefit from the estuary’s many environmental gifts.