Squamish is located at the north end of Howe Sound, where the Squamish and Stawamus rivers meet the sea. This estuarine fjord provides important habitat for a rich and diverse variety of plants and animals. Encompassing the site of the Skwelwil’em Squamish Estuary Wildlife Management Area, the area is also designated an important bird area by Birdlife International and provides habitat for over 200 species of local and migratory birds.
With its many streams and watercourses, riparian areas make up part of the fabric of the Squamish landscape. Riparian areas constitute fish habitat by providing nutrients, leaf and insect drop, shade and temperature regulation to watercourses. Generally, a more complex riparian area enhances the quality of the fish habitat. Riparian areas also improve stormwater infiltration capacity. Wetlands are also scattered throughout Squamish and provide many functions such as amphibian habitat, water retention capacity, and improving water quality. Many of our local wetlands are ephemeral, drying out in the summer and retaining water in the winter.
In addition to providing an important natural habitat for flora and fauna, the Squamish estuary also provides opportunities for recreation, trails, wind sports, industry and economic development
July 12, 2024 at 3:42 PM
Squamish Building Bylaw Update: Adopting the Zero Carbon Step Code
Energy Step Code relaxed in response to changes following community consultation
An update to Section 17 of the Building Bylaw to…
July 9, 2024 at 3:11 PM
Annual sanitary and storm sewer flushing, video inspection and vapour testing - 2024
The District of Squamish has contracted C3 Mainline to conduct a sanitary and storm sewer inspection in Valleycliffe, Northyards, Downtown,…