State of the Bay: 2025 Year in Review
- Nadia Mcgowan
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Citizen Science & Marine Projects
Invasive European Green Crab Monitoring
Led by Diane, a comprehensive report will be released in late October. This season included 33 trapping sessions across Blackie Spit, Mitigation Channel, Centennial Beach, and additional sites including Wickson Pier, Gilley, Culvert, and Pump Station. With the help of 50 dedicated volunteers, this project continues to play a critical role in protecting our coastal ecosystems.
Looking ahead, we are deeply grateful to the Stewards of the Little Campbell River Society for their funding support for the 2026 Invasive European Green Crab trapping project in Boundary Bay.
Forage Fish Spawn Habitat Monitoring
Also coordinated by Diane, 11 volunteers contributed 66 hours of field sampling over three days (February 8, May 25, and July 26) at Crescent Beach and Blackie Spit.
An additional 24 volunteers participated in training, and four days were dedicated to detailed lab egg analysis. These efforts support long-term monitoring of vital shoreline habitats.
A Rocha Projects
Paul and the A Rocha team continued their important conservation initiatives throughout the year, contributing valuable ecological stewardship across our region.
Habitat Enhancement Projects
Shoreline Cleanups
Coordinated by Marg, four successful cleanups took place:
April 27 – Blackie Spit
May 17 – West Beach
June 8 – Blackie Spit (World Ocean Day)
August 10 – East Beach
A total of 56 volunteers contributed 136 hours, collecting approximately 250 pounds of trash.A fifth cleanup will take place on September 28 at Serpentine WMA, in celebration of BC Rivers Day.
White Rock Native Plant Demonstration Garden
Thanks to the ongoing dedication of our team, the garden continues to thrive. Monthly work parties supported weeding, planting, and maintenance. In September, 122 native plants were added, sourced from BC Wild Heritage Nursery. A special thanks to White Rock staff for their continued logistical support.
Dart’s Hill Native Plant Demonstration Garden
Despite some enthusiastic nibbling from deer, rabbits, and slugs, the gardens are doing well.
Nest Box Stewardship Program
A February outing to Serpentine WMA was blessed with beautiful weather. The team hopes to begin collecting seasonal nesting data with training support from Birds Canada in the future.
School Programs Are Back
We are thrilled to announce the relaunch of our three hands-on environmental education programs:
Birds in Focus
Beach Hero Marine
Wetland / Pond Discovery
Classrooms receive a resource kit two weeks before their field trip, and sessions are led by passionate local naturalists. Programs operate by donation ($3–$5 per child suggested) and are always free where cost is a barrier, because access to nature should be for everyone.
Learn more or book a program: birdsonthebay.ca/program-booking-materials
Thank you for being part of our growing community of environmental stewards. Your time, energy, and passion continue to make a real difference for the health of Semiahmoo Bay and beyond.
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