2006

November

Intense rain storms test the recent pilot projects and bring large volumes of sand and cobbles down the creek beds. The pilot projects appear to be achieving the goal of restoring sediment discharge paths and retention on the upper foreshore that more closely emulates the creek mouth prior to the box culvert constraint.

With collaboration of the District of West Vancouver and funding commitment provided by the WVSPS, the Canadian Hydrographic Service is able to perform a high resolution near shore hydrographic survey along the Ambleside waterfront.  By doing the survey on a very high tide it will be possible to link these aerial topographic surveys of the beach on extreme low tides that could be done by the District the next time they contract for aerial topographic work to be done.  This detailed survey will provide immediately useful improved understandings of the shoreline but also provides a highly accurate benchmark to evaluate long term process over time.

Pilot projects at Lawson Creek to McDonald Creek are underway.  Work is implemented around the tidal opportunities provided.   The work at Lawson Creek is intended to provide improved features at the creek mouth to mitigate the historic box culvert and vertical seawall at the creek’s mouth.  The soft modifications and placement of field boulders in the inter tidal areas are expected to enhance biological diversity, reduce erosion loss from the foreshore of sand and cobble beach materials and enhance the long term public appreciation and enjoyment of this shoreline feature.

Earlier in the year

Neighboring property owner indicated interest in following the solutions developed for adjacent seawall property.

Pilot principles being developed for public waterfront are suggested for private property owners contemplating seawall repairs.  Owners work with the District of West Vancouver to implement soft shoreline protection in place of concrete seawalls at less expense.

District of West Vancouver announces adoption of foreshore initiative and endorses implementation of initial three year action plan to 2008.

Engineering Advisory Committee –  Report submitted  to Council. – Ambleside – Dundarave Long Term Shoreline Planning Framework