SIMPLE WAYS TO PROTECT A STREAM

There are many ways in which we can protect our urban streams from damage and keep them healthy. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has a ‘HomeTips for Healthy Streams' document detailing simple ways to protect streams. Please visit the North Vancouver District "Rules for Healthy Streams" site for more information

Many of us live or work near a stream. If you want to help protect this habitat, remember the following:

Maintain the stream in a natural condition.

• remove man-made litter from stream banks and keep garden wastes away
• leave natural materials undisturbed (nature is not always tidy)
• respect fish and other wildlife
• protect and plant native species of shrubs and trees near streams

Prevent harmful substances from entering the stream.

• remind neighbours and contractors that storm drains empty into streams
• participate in the Storm Drain Marking Program (yellow fish next to storm drains)
• use environmentally friendly products
• many items are harmful and often are washed into local streams

  cleaning compounds

  swimming pool water

  hot tub water

  animal wastes

  wet concrete

  pesticides

  tap water

  oils

  soaps

GUIDELINES FOR WORKING IN A STREAM