This Sunday, March 24, 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of an important event in Delta’s history — the acquisition of Burns Bog by the City of Delta. This acquisition set aside 2,042 hectares of the bog as an Ecological Conservancy Area, marking a big step forward for environmental conservation not just in Delta, but for the whole region.
Over the years, Delta and Metro Vancouver have worked together to expand the protected area, adding another 321 hectares to Burns Bog.
The City of Delta recognized that Burns Bog sits on the traditional lands of the scəw̓aθən (Tsawwassen), xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), and other Coast Salish Peoples. They expressed gratitude to these First Nations for their partnership in protecting the bog’s cultural and traditional significance. This collaboration aims to manage and protect Burns Bog while respecting its heritage.
In the past twenty years, various agencies have been hard at work preserving Burns Bog. The City of Delta has built almost 500 dams to raise the water level and reduce the risk of wildfires. Metro Vancouver has been tackling invasive species and restoring natural plant communities. Through scientific research and studies, scientists and the community who live and enjoy the area gained a better understanding of the bog’s ecosystem, guiding our conservation efforts for the future.
Honorable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, praised the dedication of conservation partners in preserving Burns Bog and biodiversity in Canada.
Honorable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Physical Activity and Member of Parliament for Delta, stressed the importance of everyone working together to protect and restore Burns Bog, regardless of government level.
Nathan Cullen, B.C. Minister of Water, Land, and Resource Stewardship, commends the collaboration between government and community in preserving Burns Bog and highlights the significance of agreements like the Tripartite Framework Agreement on Nature Conservation.
Mayor George V. Harvie celebrates Delta’s leadership in managing and restoring Burns Bog, reflecting on the community’s commitment to its conservation.
John McEwen, Vice Chair of Metro Vancouver, emphasizes the ongoing collaboration in restoring and conserving Burns Bog, aligning with Metro Vancouver’s broader efforts to protect natural environments across the region.
Initially recognized for its rare wildlife and plants, Burns Bog has become an important carbon sink, helping to combat climate change.
Protected by a Conservation Covenant, the Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area ensures preservation for future generations. To learn more, visit www.burnsbog.ca.
