Summer Highlights with Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society

This summer, Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society joined forces with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to help protect our local waters from the invasive European green crab. These destructive crabs threaten the eelgrass meadows that form the foundation of the marine food web in Boundary Bay. In recent trapping, 23 green crabs were discovered in previously untrapped sites; a reminder of how urgent this work has become. Learn more about this invasive species here: DFO Green Crab Info.

We were also thrilled to take part in the White Rock Sea Festival on BC Day. Families gathered at our marine creatures aquarium to get an up-close look at local shore crabs and other marine life. One enthusiastic young participant even found a Hooded Nudibranch to share with the crowd. Perhaps a budding marine biologist in the making! Kids had fun making sculpin hats, while visitors explored displays and brochures about the invasive green crab and our efforts to protect eelgrass meadows.

On land, our volunteers continued their stewardship in the White Rock Native Plant Garden. On August 2, five dedicated FoSBS members spent four hours planting 122 native herbaceous plants, while also removing invasive species and collecting litter to keep the space thriving for pollinators, birds, and the community.

Our shoreline cleanup efforts also made a big impact this summer. On East Beach in Semiahmoo Bay and in front of the Semiahmoo First Nation Reserve, 11 volunteers collected 65 pounds of garbage in just one day. Items included everything from flip flops and underwear to returnable bottles and bags of dog waste. While this effort made a visible difference, it was also a stark reminder of how much more work needs to be done to keep our beaches clean and healthy. Our next shoreline cleanup will take place at the Serpentine Wildlife Management Area on September 28 from 10 a.m. to noon—register with Marg at blueheron@birdsonthebay.ca to get involved.

As we look back on these accomplishments, we also pause to remember Sharon, a long-time member of Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society, who we lost this summer. Sharon’s dedication, warmth, and tireless commitment to protecting local ecosystems left a lasting mark on our community. Her legacy will continue to inspire our work and the many volunteers who follow in her footsteps.

We’re grateful to everyone who joined us this summer, whether on the beach or in the garden. To get involved in upcoming events with FoSBS and our partners, check out our event calendar, we’d love to see you there!