Riparian restoration of 32E Greenbelt, along Quibble Creek, to enhance canopy cover and limit urban impacts within the wildlife corridor

Abstract

A wildlife corridor, composed of a series of connected greenways, connects Bear Creek Park and Green Timbers Urban Forest. The restoration site is situated within 32E Greenbelt adjacent to Quibble Creek (North Surrey, B.C.) which, together, act as a wildlife corridor between the two biodiversity hubs, allowing for increased movement of local species. Quibble Creek and 32E Greenbelt have been degraded by anthropogenic activities and invasive species, specifically a monoculture of Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus). This riparian restoration project, in partnership with the City of Surrey, aimed to enhance the wildlife habitat within the corridor by removing Himalayan blackberry and planting native tree and shrub canopy. A native plant prescription was created based on the biogeoclimatic site series, site assessments and local characteristics. Planting events were organized through the City of Surrey’s ReLeaf program which included engaging local grade four students from Cindrich Elementary and Creekside Elementary schools. Additional maintenance and monitoring of the restoration site, and the greater 32E Greenbelt area was recommended to ensure increased biodiversity and abundance of native shrub and tree species.