Ecosystems, Enhanced.

Healthy, functioning ecosystems support an array of wildlife and enhance our own quality of life. From peaceful and natural settings, to atmospheric benefits, stream protection, and even a reduction in potential storm-water damage, these ecosystems are easy to take for granted but have a great environmental impact. So, it just makes sense to protect and enhance them.

The City works with various community partners to protect and restore urban natural areas. Tree and shrub planting, removing invasive species, restoring riparian areas, and enhancing fish and wildlife streams and habitat – it all contributes to protecting Nanaimo’s ecosystems.

Re: Planted. Trees come with more benefits than meet the eyes. They provide oxygen, shade, wildlife habitat, trap carbon dioxide, enhance the appeal of a park or neighbourhood, soak up excess ground water, and help protect our waterways from erosion and even pollution. Shrubs do much of the same, but on a smaller scale!

Re: Established. Re-establishing and protecting streams and riparian areas takes a well-planned and coordinated effort as well, and partnerships play a big role. Both the Departure Creek Realignment Project and the Woodstream Park Fish Habitat Enhancement Project saw involvement and planning with the Departure Bay Neighbourhood Association, Nanaimo Stream keepers, Department of Fisheries and Oceans and Snuneymuxw First Nation.