Sturgeon Banks Flourishing With Nature at Our Doorstep

The shoreline marshes, mud flats and shallow water areas of Sturgeon Banks, part of the Fraser River estuary, represent one of the most significant wetland habitats in North America. They result from a mix of fresh and salt water that are very rich biologically. These marshes provide habitat and stopover sites for large numbers and species of waterfowl and other birds. Flocks of tundra swans, snow geese, Canada geese and duck species are regular sights, while marsh birds such as harrier, American bittern, Virginia rail and marsh wren are easily observed. Short-eared owls and recently, long-eared owls are frequent visitors to Sturgeon Banks. Tidal pools support populations of the starry flounder, shore crab, black-tailed shrimp and pipefish, while the large horse clam and the soft-shell clam can be found in the mud flats. Sturgeon Banks is also a significant feeding ground for many fish fry and, in particular, is a highly significant feeding ground for salmon fry.

©Frank Dawson—Mallard duck pair foraging in Sturgeon Banks.

The vegetation of Sturgeon Banks ranges from extensive cattail marshes to reed marsh and shoreline meadow plant communities. Common plants species present include three square (scirpus americanus), leafy three-square (scirpus paludosus), cattail (typha latifolia), scirpus validus, scirpus acutus and carex lyngbyei. In addition to these native species, a significant number of alien species are found in the area, including many European grasses, scotch broom, yellow iris and the ever-present Himalayan and evergreen blackberries.A marvelous place to go for a walk or bike ride is along Richmond's West Dyke Trail parallel to Sturgeon Banks. Sturgeon Banks starts around Garry Point Park, just west of the village of Steveston and ending in the Terra Nova area of Richmond to the north. Take the kids with you as there's lots to see. A good pair of binoculars, camera with a telephoto lens and maybe a picnic lunch would be a great idea.

©Frank Dawson—Container ship off Sturgeon Banks with Gulf Island mountains in background.

The vegetation of Sturgeon Banks ranges from extensive cattail marshes to reed marsh and shoreline meadow plant communities. Common plants species present include three square (scirpus americanus), leafy three-square (scirpus paludosus), cattail (typha latifolia), scirpus validus, scirpus acutus and carex lyngbyei. In addition to these native species, a significant number of alien species are found in the area, including many European grasses, scotch broom, yellow iris and the ever-present Himalayan and evergreen blackberries.

So, when in the mood for exercise and fresh air, or just a peaceful walk or ride through the nature-rich corridor we call the Dyke Trails, come see Sturgeon Banks via the West Dyke Trail (opens a satellite map showing Sturgeon Banks on the extreme left), you'll be glad you did.