Mission’s wetlands bolstered by marsh donation

Mission, B.C. – An ecologically-significant group of rare tidal wetlands at the confluence of the Fraser and Stave Rivers grew larger and will stay productive for years to come thanks to a generous eco-gift by Genstar Development Company to Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC).

“We are extremely pleased to be the recipient of this valuable parcel of wetland habitat,” says Dan Buffett, DUC’s head of conservation on the coast. “Last year, we worked closely with Genstar to conserve the bulk of these wetlands for their value to waterfowl, wildlife and people. This new 3.5 ha gift ensures the final parcel of wetland habitat in the Stave River Wetlands network is added to the project, guaranteeing the incredible natural values and ecological services of these wetlands are locked down forever.”

Located west of Mission along Lougheed Highway and adjacent to Silvermere Lake, the Stave River Wetlands now represent 17 ha of rare tidal wetland habitat along the Fraser River. The Stave River Wetlands is one of the few undiked and unprotected sites along the Fraser River – a region that has seen extremely aggressive and significant losses of wetland habitat – before Genstar, DUC, the BC Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure, District of Mission, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and The Fraser River Valley Regional Watersheds Coalition huddled around and set a game plan to conserve the wetlands.

“Genstar is honoured to able to contribute to this significant conservation initiative in the District of Mission,” says James Hammermeister, Genstar’s president. “Under Ducks Unlimited stewardship, the Stave River Wetlands will continue to benefit citizens of British Columbia for generations to come. We are proud to be associated with this permanent legacy.”

The Stave River Wetlands are tidal wetlands. Buffett says these areas are incredibly productive ecosystems due to the fluctuating water levels of the Fraser River tides and the bounty of biodiversity that flourish in these areas.

“Tidal wetlands are incredibly valuable to waterfowl, especially during wintering and migrations stages of their life cycle due to the presence of plants, invertebrates and mollusks that provide energy for long migration and critical food source for birds,” he says. “Tidal wetlands also provide shelter and valuable habitat for salmon as they make their way to and from the Fraser River. Salmon that would use this site include coho, chum and chinook.”

Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is the leader in wetland conservation. A registered charity, DUC partners with government, industry, non-profit organizations and landowners to conserve wetlands that are critical to waterfowl, wildlife and the environment. Learn more at ducks.ca.