Regional Parks Committee Agenda Package - January 20, 2021

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January 12, 2020

METRO VANCOUVER REGIONAL DISTRICT REGIONAL PARKS COMMITTEE

REGULAR MEETING Wednesday, January 20, 2021

9:00 AM

28^th Floor Boardroom, 4730 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia

A G E N D A¹ OPENING REMARKS

Director Sav Dhaliwal, Board Chairand Ex Officio committee member 1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

1.1 January 20, 2021 Regular Meeting Agenda

That the Regional Parks Committee adopt the agenda for its regular meeting scheduled for January 20, 2021 as circulated.

2. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES

2.1 November 18, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes

That the Regional Parks Committee adopt the minutes of its regular meeting held November 18, 2020 as circulated.

3. DELEGATIONS

4. INVITED PRESENTATIONS

5. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEE OR STAFF

5.1 2021 Regional Parks Committee Priorities and Work Plan

That the Regional Parks Committee endorse the work plan as presented in the report dated December 3, 2020, titled “2021 Regional Parks Committee Priorities and Work Plan”.

5.2 Manager’s Report – Regional Parks

That the Regional Parks Committee receive for information report dated December 3, 2020, titled “Manager’s Report – Regional Parks”.

1Note: Recommendation is shown under each item, where applicable.

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Regional Parks Committee Regular Agenda January 20, 2021 Agenda Page 2 of 2

6. INFORMATION ITEMS

6.1 Regional Parks Upcoming Events – January 2021 7. OTHER BUSINESS

8. BUSINESS ARISING FROM DELEGATIONS 9. RESOLUTION TO CLOSE MEETING

Note: The Committee must state by resolution the basis under section 90 of the Community Charter on which the meeting is being closed. If a member wishes to add an item, the basis must be included below.

That the Regional Park Committee close its regular meeting scheduled for January 20, 2021 pursuant to the Community Charter provisions, Section 90 (1) (e) as follows:

“90 (1) A part of the meeting may be closed to the public if the subject matter being considered relates to or is one or more of the following:

(e) the acquisition, disposition or expropriation of land or improvements, if the board or committee considers that disclosure could reasonably be expected to harm the interests of the regional district.”

10. ADJOURNMENT/CONCLUSION

That the Regional Parks Committee adjourn/conclude its regular meeting of January 20, 2021.

Membership:

McEwen, John (C) - Anmore Wiebe, Michael (VC) - Vancouver Calendino, Pietro - Burnaby Clark, Carolina - Belcarra Dilworth, Diana - Port Moody

Guerra, Laurie - Surrey Harvie, George - Delta Hodge, Craig - Coquitlam Miyashita, Tracy - Pitt Meadows Muri, Lisa - North Vancouver District

Nicholson, Maureen - Bowen Island Penner, Darrell - Port Coquitlam Richter, Kim - Langley Township Soprovich, Bill - West Vancouver Trentadue, Mary - New Westminster

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Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the MVRD Regional Parks Committee held on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 Page 1 of 6 METRO VANCOUVER REGIONAL DISTRICT

REGIONAL PARKS COMMITTEE

Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Metro Vancouver Regional District (MVRD) Regional Parks Committee held at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 in the 28^th Floor Boardroom, 4730 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia.

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Chair, Mayor John McEwen, Anmore

Vice Chair, Councillor Michael Wiebe*, Vancouver

Councillor Pietro Calendino*, Burnaby (arrived at 9:01 a.m.) Councillor Diana Dilworth*, Port Moody

Councillor Laurie Guerra*, Surrey Mayor George Harvie*, Delta Councillor Craig Hodge*, Coquitlam

Councillor Tracy Miyashita*, Pitt Meadows (arrived at 9:03 a.m.) Councillor Lisa Muri*, North Vancouver District

Councillor Maureen Nicholson*, Bowen Island Councillor Darrell Penner*, Port Coquitlam Councillor Kim Richter*, Langley Township Councillor Bill Soprovich, West Vancouver Councillor Mary Trentadue*, New Westminster MEMBERS ABSENT:

None.

STAFF PRESENT:

Mike Redpath, Director, Regional Parks, Parks and Environment Jerry W. Dobrovolny, Chief Administrative Officer

Klara Kutakova, Deputy Corporate Officer

1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

1.1 November 18, 2020 Regular Meeting Agenda It was MOVED and SECONDED

That the Regional Parks Committee adopt the agenda for its regular meeting scheduled for November 18, 2020 as circulated.

CARRIED

*denotes electronic meeting participation as authorized by Section 3.6.2 of the Procedure Bylaw

2.1

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Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the MVRD Regional Parks Committee held on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 Page 2 of 6 2. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES

2.1 October 14, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes It was MOVED and SECONDED

That the Regional Parks Committee adopt the minutes of its regular meeting held October 14, 2020 as circulated.

CARRIED 9:01 a.m. Councillor Calendino arrived at the meeting.

3. DELEGATIONS No items presented.

4. INVITED PRESENTATIONS

4.1 Ross Davies, Kanaka Education and Environmental Partnership Society

Ross Davies, Education Coordinator, Kanaka Education and Environmental Partnership Society (KEEPS), provided the Committee with a presentation on KEEPS, the stewardship activities of KEEPS, environmental aspects of the Kanaka Creek Stewardship Centre, and the 2020 challenges.

9:03 a.m. Councillor Miashita arrived at the meeting.

Presentation material titled “K.E.E.P.S.” is retained with the November 18, 2020 Regional Parks Committee agenda.

5. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEE OR STAFF

5.1 Kanaka Creek Regional Park – Contribution Agreement for Operation of the Kanaka Creek Bell-Irving Hatchery 2021 - 2023

Report dated November 9, 2020 from Doug Petersen, Division Manager, East Area, Regional Parks, seeking MVRD Board approval to enter into a three-year Contribution Agreement with the Kanaka Education and Environmental Partnership Society toward the operation of the Kanaka Creek Bell-Irving Hatchery.

It was MOVED and SECONDED

That the MVRD Board approve the Contribution Agreement between the Metro Vancouver Regional District and the Kanaka Education and Environmental Partnership Society toward the operation of the Kanaka Creek Bell-Irving Hatchery for a three-year term in the amount of $21,000 annually, commencing January 1, 2021 and ending on December 31, 2023.

CARRIED

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Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the MVRD Regional Parks Committee held on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 Page 3 of 6 5.2 Regional Greenway 2050

Report dated October 21, 2020, from Mike Redpath, Director, and Jamie Vala, Division Manager, Planning and Resource Management, Regional Parks, seeking MVRD Board adoption of the Regional Greenways 2050 plan and support for inclusion of the Regional Greenway Network, as described on page 20 of Attachment 1, in the update of the Regional Growth Strategy, Metro 2050.

Members were provided with a presentation on the Regional Greenways 2020 plan, including benefits of greenways, the process for the update of the plan, collaboration with TransLink, vision, definition and goals of regional greenways, regional greenways network, operational status, implementation framework, and the engagement process.

Discussion ensued on educational opportunities, enhancements of the Greenway Network, multi-use trail challenges, collaborative governance of the trails, and the importance of a consistent branding of the greenway trail system.

Request of Staff Staff was requested to:

• Investigate the potential implementation of a trail etiquette or policy

• Continue to build on common branding of the regional greenways

• Provide a hard copy of Attachment 1 “Regional Greenways 2050” to member municipal councils

Presentation material titled “Regional Greenways 2050 Plan” is retained with the November 18, 2020 Regional Parks Committee agenda.

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the MVRD Board:

a) approve the Regional Greenways 2050 plan; and

b) direct staff to include the Regional Greenways Network and supporting policies, as appropriate, in the update of the Regional Growth Strategy, Metro 2050.

CARRIED 5.3 MVRD Regional Parks Regulation Amending Bylaw No. 1314, 2020 – Amends

Bylaw 1177, 2012

Report dated October 10, 2020, from David Leavers, Division Manager, Visitor and Operations Services, Regional Parks, seeking Board’s adoption of the amendments to the Metro Vancouver Regional District Regional Parks Regulation Bylaw No. 1177, 2012 that propose regulatory changes and amended or new fees and charges.

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Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the MVRD Regional Parks Committee held on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 Page 4 of 6 It was MOVED and SECONDED

That the MVRD Board:

a) give first, second and third reading to Metro Vancouver Regional District Regional Parks Regulation Amending Bylaw No. 1314, 2020; and

b) pass and finally adopt Metro Vancouver Regional District Regional Parks Regulation Amending Bylaw No. 1314, 2020.

CARRIED 5.4 MVRD Notice of Bylaw Violation Enforcement and Dispute Adjudication

Amending Bylaw 1315, 2020 - Amends Bylaw 1117, 2010

Report dated October 17, 2020, from David Leavers, Division Manager, Visitor and Operations Services, Regional Parks, seeking Board’s adoption of the amendments to the Greater Vancouver Regional District Notice of Bylaw Violation Enforcement and Dispute Adjudication Bylaw No. 1117, 2010 (Bylaw No. 1117) that will help further protect Regional Parks’ natural resources and assets, and better define acceptable public conduct.

a) give first, second and third reading to Metro Vancouver Regional District Notice of Bylaw Violation Enforcement and Dispute Adjudication Amending Bylaw No. 1315, 2020; and

b) pass and finally adopt Metro Vancouver Regional District Notice of Bylaw Violation Enforcement and Dispute Adjudication Amending Bylaw No. 1315, 2020.

CARRIED 5.5 MVRD Ticket Information Utilization Amending Bylaw 1316, 2020 – Amends

Bylaw 1050, 2006

Report dated October 10, 2020, from David Leavers, Division Manager, Visitor and Operations Services, Regional Parks, seeking Board’s adoption of the amendments to Greater Vancouver Regional District Ticket Information Utilization Bylaw No. 1050, 2006 (Bylaw No. 1050) that will help further protect Regional Parks’ natural resources, assets and better define acceptable public conduct.

a) give first, second and third reading to Metro Vancouver Regional District Ticket Utilization Amending Bylaw No. 1316, 2020; and

b) pass and finally adopt Metro Vancouver Regional District Ticket Utilization Amending Bylaw No. 1316, 2020.

CARRIED

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Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the MVRD Regional Parks Committee held on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 Page 5 of 6 5.6 Campbell Valley Regional Park – Engagement Results and Management Plan

Report dated October 5, 2020, from Doug Petersen, Division Manager, East Area, Regional Parks, and Lydia Mynott, Park Planner, East Area, Regional Parks, informing the Committee and the Board of the results of phase two engagement on the Campbell Valley Regional Park Draft Management Plan, and seeking MVRD Board approval of the revised Campbell Valley Regional Park Management Plan.

Members were provided with a presentation on the Campbell Valley Regional Park Draft Management Plan, including an overview of the process, engagement with First Nations, agencies, stakeholders and the public, feedback received, changes made to the park concept plan in response to the feedback, long-range vision for the park, and the final steps in the implementation of the plan.

Discussion ensued on the following:

• Incorporation of feedback into and potential additional adjustments of the management plan

• Process for First Nations employment and cultural opportunities in regional parks

• Implementation budget

• Management plan for sediments

Presentation material titled “Campbell Valley Regional Park – Engagement Results and Management Plan” is retained with the November 18, 2020 Regional Parks Committee agenda.

That the MVRD Board approve the Campbell Valley Regional Park Management Plan 2020, as presented in the report dated October 5, 2020, titled “Campbell Valley Regional Park – Engagement Results and Management Plan”.

CARRIED 5.7 Manager’s Report – Regional Parks

Report dated October 21, 2020, from Mike Redpath, Director, Regional Parks, providing an update on the Committee’s 2020 Work Plan, Parks Visits during COVID-19 pandemic, and Widgeon Marsh Regional Park development, and informing the Committee of the Delta Nature Reserve and Delta South Surrey Greenway Management Plan initiation, Regional Parks Ecoblitz 2020, and Regional Parks October program.

Members inquired about the number of regional parks visits.

Request of Staff

Staff was requested to provide Committee members with a break down of staff visits for each regional park.

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Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the MVRD Regional Parks Committee held on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 Page 6 of 6 It was MOVED and SECONDED

That the Regional Parks Committee receive for information report dated October 21, 2020 titled “Manager’s Report – Regional Parks”.

CARRIED 6. INFORMATION ITEMS

6.1 Regional Parks Upcoming Events – November & December 2020 7. OTHER BUSINESS

No items presented.

8. BUSINESS ARISING FROM DELEGATIONS No items presented.

9. RESOLUTION TO CLOSE MEETING It was MOVED and SECONDED

That the Regional Parks Committee close its regular meeting scheduled for November 18, 2020 pursuant to the Community Charter provisions, Section 90 (1) (e) and (m) as follows:

“90 (1) A part of the meeting may be closed to the public if the subject matter being considered relates to or is one or more of the following:

(e) the acquisition, disposition or expropriation of land or improvements, if the board or committee considers that disclosure could reasonably be expected to harm the interests of the regional district; and

(m) a matter that, under another enactment, is such that the public may be excluded from the meeting.”

CARRIED 10. ADJOURNMENT/CONCLUSION

That the Regional Parks Committee adjourn its regular meeting of November 18, 2020.

CARRIED (Time: 10:21 a.m.)

____________________________ ____________________________

Klara Kutakova, John McEwen, Chair

Deputy Corporate Officer

42324530 FINAL

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42499477

To: Regional Parks Committee

From: Mike Redpath, Director, Regional Parks

Date: December 3, 2020 Meeting Date: January 20, 2021

Subject: 2021 Regional Parks Committee Priorities and Work Plan RECOMMENDATION

That the Regional Parks Committee endorse the work plan as presented in the report dated December 3, 2020 titled “2021 Regional Parks Committee Priorities and Work Plan”.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

At its October 14, 2020 meeting, the Regional Parks Committee endorsed the 2021 Budget and Annual Work Plan for the Regional Parks function.

The 2021 Work Plan for the Regional Parks Committee’s endorsement is provided in Attachment 1, including the expected time frame staff will report work plan activities to this Committee. The Committee will be updated on the status of the actions and projects in this work plan on a monthly basis per the Committee’s schedule.

The Committee’s Terms of Reference is provided as Attachment 2, for the Committee’s information.

PURPOSE

To provide the Regional Parks Committee with the priorities and work plan for the year 2021.

BACKGROUND

At its October 14, 2020 meeting, the Regional Parks Committee reviewed the 2021 Budget and Annual Work Plans for the Regional Parks function, which served as the basis for the 2021 Budget approved by the MVRD Board on October 30, 2020. The 2021 Annual Work Plan included in that budget a list of key actions that has been used to develop the Regional Park Committee’s work plan (Attachment 1) presented in this report.

The work plan presented in this report is consistent with the Regional Park Committee’s terms of reference (Attachment 2) and with the Board Strategic Plan and is being brought forward for the Committee’s information, review and endorsement.

2021 WORK PLAN

The Regional Parks Committee is the standing committee of the Metro Vancouver Board that provides advice and recommendations on policies, bylaws, plans, programs, budgets, and issues related to the Regional Parks function.

5.1

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2021 Regional Parks Committee Priorities and Work Plan Regional Parks Committee Regular Meeting Date: January 20, 2021 Page 2 of 6

Key achievements of the 2020 Regional Parks Committee Work Plan include:

• Completion and Board approval of the Metro Vancouver Regional Greenways 2050 Plan

• Completion of the Regional Parks Asset Management Plan- State of Assets

• Opening of the Sheep Paddocks Trail at Colony Farm Regional Park

• Supporting Regional Park Covid19 Pandemic response with visitor and capacity management planning for a record number of regional park visitors (2020 Regional Park visitation was 16.60 million visitors in December 2020)

• Through approval of the ecological restoration of Burns Bog, key parkland acquisitions at Widgeon Marsh in Coquitlam and Codd Wetland in Pitt Meadows, 92% (27,440 of 29,834 tCO2e) of the estimated carbon credits to make Metro Vancouver Carbon neutral were from Parks projects @ $150/ton, the 27,440 tCO2e translating to a $4.1M value.

• Board adoption of the Campbell Valley Regional Park Management Plan Update

• Initiation of cultural studies and the advanced design of Widgeon Marsh Regional Park

• Completion of planning for new service yard facilities at Capilano, Crippen, and Pacific Spirit Regional Parks

• Approval and review of the Phase 1 Regional Park System Alternative Transportation study

• Commencement of discussions with Burnaby for the renewal of Burnaby Lake Regional Park agreement permitting MVRD to continue operating the park

• Continued implementation of Grouse Mountain Regional Park Management Plan

• Securing the Grouse Mountain Regional Park - Trail and Amenity Improvements funding through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program - Community, Culture and Recreation grant for $2.7 million

• Advancement of significant Regional Park land acquisitions – 108 hectares of new parkland in support of Regional Parks Land Acquisition 2050

• Approval of the transfer of the Burns Bog Regional Parks Delta Nature Reserve lands to become the first publicly accessible portion of Burns Bog Regional Park

Key actions in the 2021 Work Plan for the Committee are described below and listed according to the Committee responsibilities in its Terms of Reference.

• Approval of the Regional Parks Permit Framework

• Completion of the Regional Parks Alternative Transportation Study – Phase 2

• Completion of Burnaby Lake Regional Park – renewal agreement with the City of Burnaby

• Completion of the Regional Parks Asset Management Plan

• Completion of the Regional Parks Building Strategy

• Completion of the Regional Parks Park Partnership Program Update

• Continued implementation of Grouse Mountain Regional Park Management Plan and Canada Infrastructure Grant funding

• Crippen Regional Park - Dorman Point Concept Plan Update and trail plan

• Initiation of the Delta Nature Reserve and Delta South Surrey Greenway Management Plan – Phase 1 Engagement

• Initiation of the Regional Parks Natural Assets management plan

• Pacific Parklands Foundation Update

• Pursue land acquisitions in support of Regional Parks Land Acquisition 2050

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2021 Regional Parks Committee Priorities and Work Plan Regional Parks Committee Regular Meeting Date: January 20, 2021 Page 3 of 6

• Regional Parks Annual Budget and 5-year Financial Plan

• Regional Parks Annual Report for 2020

• Regional Parks Building Strategy Update

• Regional Parks Development Cost Charge Program Update

• Supporting Regional Park COVID - 19 Pandemic response with visitor and capacity management planning

• Regional Parks Visitor and Parking Capacity Management Update

• Widgeon Marsh Regional Park Development Updates and phase one major construction commencement

The 2021 Work Plan for the Regional Parks Committee is provided in Attachment 1, including the expected time frame for reports to this Committee. The Committee will be updated on the status of the actions and projects in this work plan on a monthly basis per the Committee’s schedule.

ALTERNATIVES

1. That the Regional Parks Committee endorse the work plan as presented in the report dated December 3, 2020, titled “2021 Regional Parks Committee Priorities and Work Plan”.

2. That the Regional Parks Committee endorse the work plan as presented in the report dated December 3, 2020, titled “2021 Regional Parks Committee Priorities and Work Plan” with the amendments provided at the Regional Parks Committee’s January 20, 2021 meeting.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The priorities in the 2021 Work Plan of the Regional Parks Committee are consistent with the 2021 Budget approved by the MVRD Board on October 30, 2020 and with key actions included in the Annual Work Plans.

CONCLUSION

The work plan presented in this report identifies the priorities for the Regional Parks Committee in 2021 and is consistent with its terms of reference and the 2021 Budget approved by the MVRD Board.

Staff recommends that Alternative 1 be approved.

Attachments

1. Regional Parks Committee 2021 Work Plan 2. Regional Parks Committee Terms of Reference

42499477

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Regional Parks Committee 2021 Work Plan Report Date: December 3, 2020 Priorities

1^st Quarter Status

Regional Parks Park Partnership Program Update In Progress

Regional Parks State of Assets In Progress

Regional Parks Permit Framework In Progress

Visitor and Parking Capacity Management Update In Progress

Regional Parks Program and Interpretation update Pending

Widgeon Marsh Regional Park Development Update Pending

Burnaby Lake Regional Park – Agreement with the City of Burnaby In Progress

Regional Parks Building Strategy Update Pending

2^nd Quarter

Regional Parks Annual Report for 2020 Pending

Regional Parks Capital Development Update Pending

Delta Nature Reserve Management Plan – Phase 1 Engagement Pending

Bylaw Amendment for Land Dedication Pending

Regional Parks Plan Update Pending

Brunette Fraser Greenway Sapperton Opening Pending

Pacific Parklands Foundation Update Pending

Hazard Tree Management Update Pending

Grouse Mountain Regional Park Grant Update Pending

Visitor and Parking Capacity Management Update Pending

3^rd Quarter

Regional Parks Committee Tour of Regional Parks Pending

Metro Vancouver 2021 Regional Parks PNE Display Update Pending

Regional Parks Building Strategy Pending

Asset Management Plan Pending

Review/Renew Park Association Contribution Agreements Pending

4^th Quarter

Regional Parks Development Cost Charge Program Pending

Regional Parks Park Partnership Program Review Pending

Regional Parks Annual Budget and 5-year Financial Plan Pending

Regional Parks Regulation Amending Bylaw Pending

Crippen Regional Park - Dorman Point Concept Plan Update Pending

Regional Parks Natural Assets Pending

Forest Health Results Study Update Pending

Alternative Transportation Study – Phase 2 Pending

Regional Parks Capital Development Update Pending

Status = Pending, In Progress or Completed

ATTACHMENT 1

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Regional Parks Committee

Terms of Reference

The Regional Parks Committee is the standing committee of the Metro Vancouver Board that provides advice and recommendations on policies, plans, programs, budgets, and issues related to the Regional Parks service.

Committee Responsibilities

Within the scope of the Board Strategic Plan, Regional Parks Plan, Regional Parks Land Acquisition 2050, and Metro Vancouver Financial Plan, the Committee provides guidance and oversight to staff on the implementation of annual work plans and business plans that guide the Regional Parks service delivery with the goal of protecting the region’s important natural areas and connecting people to nature. Specific Committee responsibilities include:

• Guiding the implementation of the Regional Parks Land Acquisition 2050 strategy and making recommendations to the MVRD Board to secure land for future regional park use, centered on protection of the region’s important natural areas and connecting people to them.

• Overseeing the ongoing implementation of the Regional Parks Capital Program, operating budget implementation to ensure the provision of safe, clean, and well maintained facilities for park visitors.

• Guiding policy, strategic direction, and analysis aimed at managing Regional Parks to ensure the protection and enhancement of natural areas.

• Providing strategic direction to guide the development of interpretive, educational and stewardship programs to enhance understanding and enjoyment of the natural environment that increase opportunities for people to connect with, enjoy and be active in nature.

• Reviewing and endorsing partnership/contribution agreements for MVRD Board approval with the Pacific Parklands Foundation, park associations and other stakeholders.

• Recommending to the MVRD Board amendments to the Regional Parks Regulation Bylaw that governs the Regional Parks service, including the setting of annual fees and charges to promote positive visitor experiences.

• Providing strategic direction in program delivery, community engagement and provision of special facilities or programs to support the regional parks system.

• Guiding and participating in engagement with member municipalities, First Nations, stakeholders, and the public on Regional Parks’ plans, policies and programs.

ATTACHMENT 2

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Regional Parks Committee Terms of Reference Page 2 of 2 Committee Membership and Meetings

The Chair, Vice Chair and members are appointed annually by the Chair of the Metro Vancouver Board. The Committee meets monthly, except for August and December, and holds special meetings as required. A quorum of 50% plus one of the Committee membership is required to conduct Committee business.

Committee Management

The Committee Chair, or in the absence of the Chair the Vice-Chair, is the chief spokesperson on matters of public interest within the Committee’s purview. For high profile issues the role of spokesperson rests with the Metro Vancouver Board Chair or Vice Chair. On technical matters or in cases where an initiative is still at the staff proposal level, the Chief Administrative Officer or a senior staff member is the appropriate chief spokesperson. Where necessary and practical, the Board Chair, Committee Chair and Chief Administrative Officer confer to determine the most appropriate representative to speak.

The Chief Administrative Officer assigns a Committee Manager for the Committee. The Committee Manager is responsible for coordinating agendas and serves as the principal point of contact for Committee members.

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42547281

To: Regional Parks Committee

From: Mike Redpath, Director, Regional Parks

Date: December 3, 2020 Meeting Date: January 20, 2021

Subject: Manager’s Report – Regional Parks RECOMMENDATION

That the Regional Parks Committee receive for information report dated December 3, 2020, titled

“Manager’s Report – Regional Parks”.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This Manager’s Report presents a summary of the MVRD Board endorsed Resilient Region Strategic Framework. The 2021 Regional Parks Standing Committee events are presented for information. An update on the 2021 record Regional Parks visitation is also included. Updates regarding the Anniedale - Tynehead Regional Park servicing project, the North Shore Rescue Patrol activities at Grouse Mountain Regional Park and a Regional Parks Programming Update is included.

RESILIENT REGION STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK

At its meeting held July 31, 2020 the MVRD Board endorsed the development of a Resilient Region Strategic Framework aimed at providing a consistent approach to integrating resilience across the organization starting with long-range management plans under development. The framework will seek to adopt a broad view of resilience, encompassing economic prosperity and equity, as well as physical and environmental conditions.

The Metro Vancouver region faces many challenges, now and into the future. The secondary economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have accelerated, aggravated, and exposed existing vulnerabilities in our regional economy. Many of Metro Vancouver’s fastest growing industries pre- pandemic were lower-skilled, temporary worker-dominated service industries, such as retail trade, tourism, and hospitality. These industries were most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the first six months of 2020, Metro Vancouver was one of the hardest hit urban centres in Canada in terms of unemployment and economic output, as well as the hardest hit region in British Columbia.

The contraction of our economy has disproportionately impacted youth, women, racialized workers, and recent immigrants, all of whom are more likely to be low-wage and part-time workers within these low-skill service sectors.

Metro Vancouver as an organization is also faced with the challenge of ensuring regional utility services are able to manage and respond to shocks and stresses and the urgent need to take action on climate change.

Given these challenges, the Resilient Region Strategic Framework will support Metro Vancouver in:

• Enhancing our capacity to prepare for and recover from acute shocks and manage chronic stresses;

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Manager’s Report – Regional Parks Regional Parks Committee Regular Meeting Date: January 20, 2021 Page 2 of 5

• Ensuring our contribution to shared prosperity throughout the region; and,

• Advancing our ability to integrate social equity considerations into our work across the region.

The framework is intended to cover the wide range of services that Metro Vancouver undertakes and will capture synergies between departments and support continuous improvement. Specific impacts to areas within the Regional Parks Committee’s purview will likely include:

• Integration of resilience concepts into future initiatives and management plan development;

• Consideration of opportunities to contribute to shared regional economic prosperity; and,

• Evaluation of social equity impacts in future policy and program developments.

A Board Strategic Planning workshop will be held February 26 and 27, 2021 to receive the Board’s direction on potential updates to the 2019-2022 Board Strategic Plan in light of these critical issues.

VIRTUAL ATTENDANCE AT 2021 STANDING COMMITTEE EVENTS

Participation at external events provides important learning and networking opportunities. The following events that fall under the purview of the Regional Parks Committee were included in the 2021 Leadership and Engagement budget. Only virtual attendance will be considered given travel restrictions under the COVID-19 pandemic.

• National Recreation and Parks Association Annual Conference (virtual attendance, if possible) Date and Place: September 21-23, 2021, Nashville, Tennessee

Number of attendee(s): 2

This conference focuses on the park and recreation community in north America.

• BC Recreation and Parks Association Symposium (virtual attendance, if possible) Date and Place: May 5-7, 2021, Vancouver, British Columbia

This annual symposium includes education, networking and leadership development for recreation and parks professionals, and community leaders from all over BC and beyond.

• Special Parks District Forum (virtual attendance, if possible) Date and Place: June 6-9, 2021, Portland, Oregon

This annual forum provides in-park learning opportunities for elected representatives and staff from special park districts and regional districts across North America.

Please notify the Committee Chair or Committee Manager as soon as possible, but no later than January 29, 2021, if you are interested in attending any of the above-noted events. As the funds for these events are budgeted in general government, the Finance and Intergovernment Committee will consider approval of the events, but final approval on attendance rests with the Board Chair.

REGIONAL PARKS VISITATION – 2020

2020 was a year like no other in so many respects. This includes visitation to Regional Parks which was at an all-time high. Over 16,600,000 visits occurred to Regional Parks. This is 39 % increase over the 2019 visitation rates. The high use that was seen early in the pandemic did not slow as the

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weather turned cooler and wetter this fall. Residents continue to value parks as an essential part of their mental and physical wellbeing.

COLONY FARM REGIONAL PARK – TRANS MOUNTAIN EXPANSION PROJECT (TMEP) TEMPORARY WORKSPACE AGREEMENT

As an alternative to the Canadian Energy Regulator issuing TMEP a unilateral ‘Order of Entry,’ MVRD granted a Licence Agreement to TMEP that permits an 11.4 acre (4.45 hectare) temporary staging or workspace along the western edge of the park, for staging and assembling pipe to be pulled under Fraser river, via trenchless construction.

The workspace area primarily includes an existing trail/ service road, and some old field.

Approximately 70% of the workspace area has been recently disturbed. Construction activities in the park are expected to last approximately 8 months. During this time, the western perimeter trail will be closed for safety reasons. No pipe or any other permanent works will be installed in the park.

Plans and Reports Required

TMEP is required to prepare the following plans for MVRD’s review and comment at least 45 days before starting construction activities in the park:

• Site Specific Environmental Management Plan

• Baseline Report

• Traffic Management Plan

• Traffic Control Plan

• Security Plan

• Sign and Communication Plan

TMEP is also required to prepare the following plans for MVRD review and comment within five months of starting construction activities:

• Drainage Identification and Assessment Plan

• Reclamation Plan

Construction and Environmental Monitor

TMEP will provide MVRD with funding for an onsite

construction and environmental monitor to act exclusively on MVRD’s behalf. The monitor will be a qualified professional who will inspect TMEP’s activities and operations on and in proximity to the workspace to help ensure protection of the park. MVRD staff will receive daily reports about activities and any concerns, so that any issues can be promptly addressed.

Community Benefit Agreement

TMEP has entered into a Community Benefit Agreement with MVRD that will provide up to $1.4 M toward the following projects:

• invasive species removal

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• habitat improvements

• trail improvements

• drainage improvements

• other similar projects to be developed, and discussed by both parties.

Regular Meetings

TMEP and MVRD staff will meet weekly while construction activities are performed in the park.

GROUSE MOUNTAIN REGIONAL PARK - NORTH SHORE RESCUE PATROL

The North Shore Rescue conducts nightly patrol on the Grouse Grind Trail after closing times to ensure that hikers have cleared the trail safely. The Grouse Grind Trail and the Skyride is operated by the Grouse Mountain Resort and opened to the public this year on June 22, two months later than usual due to COVID-19. To ensure adherance to public health guidelines, hikers were required to reserve the Skyride to return to the trailhead.

Around 12 volunteers conducted close to 2600 night patrols during the period of June 22, 2020 to November 10, 2020 after which the Grouse Grind was closed for winter conditions. The patrol team assisted hikers facing difficulty in getting up the trail and who were injured, and unprepared hikers without water or light. The patrollers encountered hikers returning down the trail due to long wait times at the tram. Since this is not permitted, extra measures were put in place to ensure such incidents do not recurr.

TYNEHEAD REGIONAL PARK – ANNIEDALE-TYNEHEAD SERVICING INFRASTRUCTURE On March 27, 2019, staff informed the

Regional Parks Committee about the Anniedale-Tynehead Servicing Infrastructure project. The City of Surrey is working with Beech Westgaard Developments to implement servicing for the Anniedale-Tynehead Neighbourhood Concept Plan (NCP). Part of the project includes installing twinned water and sanitary sewer within a Right of Way through Tynehead Regional Park.

Regional Parks staff have worked with the City of Surrey to determine the least impactful infrastructure alignment and installation method to minimize impacts to the park and its visitors. These terms and a modified alignment are captured in

a License Agreement with the City of Surrey. Approximately thirty trees will be removed within the refined park Right of Way; a tree replacement strategy has been developed, and sixty new trees will be planted.

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The anticipated start date for construction is February 2021. The work will result in a temporary closure to the eastside of the perimeter trail. The closure will affect 1.2 km of the trail and will be in place for approximately twelve weeks. The public will be notified about the project and closure through signage and webpage advisories.

REGIONAL PARKS PROGRAMS

Capilano Regional Park - Coho Commotion 2020, October 24

The Coho Commotion 2020 was held at Capilano River Regional Park to celebrate the annual salmon return, and highlight how the salmon life cycle shapes and influences the park’s ecosystem.

Interpretive roving stations were used and proper physical distancing measures were followed adhering to Covid-19 protocols. Visitors learned about the salmon life cycle (egg - spawning adult), challenges salmon face and how they adapt to survive. Over 400 people (in household bubbles) attended this event throughout the day. The Capilano River Hatchery was open during this program and visitors were able to see salmon in the fish ladder.

Kanaka Creek Regional Park – Return of the Salmon, October 25 This event took place in partnership with the Kanaka

Education and Environmental Partnership Society and Bell-Irving Hatchery volunteers. Participants were required to register under the modified program to reduce numbers on site and comply with Provincial Health Orders. Even with attendance restrictions, almost 100 people participated.

Visitors rotated through three stations where they learned about the salmon life cycle, salmon anatomy, and the plants and animals dependant on salmon. The highlight of the event was watching a live salmon at the Kanaka Creek.

42547281 Coho Salmon

Kanaka Creek Regional Park

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6.1 METRO VANCOUVER REGIONAL PARKS Upcoming Events

January 2021

DATE UPCOMING EVENTS

15 JAN & 16 JAN 2021 Wonders of Owls: Webinar and Walk CAMPBELL VALLEY REGIONAL PARK 20 JAN & 30 JAN 2021 Wonders of Owls: Webinar and Walk

PACIFIC SPIRIT REGIONAL PARK 29 JAN & 30 JAN 2021 Wonders of Owls: Webinar and Walk

ALDERGROVE REGIONAL PARK

*Note: For more information on Regional Parks Programs & Events, please visit http://www.metrovancouver.org/events/calendar