We are thrilled to announce our new project in collaboration with Fraser Valley Watersheds Coalition (FVWC) with support from the Canada Water Agency.
Vedder River Restoration, Youth-Led Action for Freshwater Health will provide youth aged 16-25 in the Fraser Valley with an opportunity to participate in the stewardship of a local ecosystem. This project will empower youth with practical skills and leadership in sustainability, while monitoring and improving freshwater quality and habitat for salmon and other native species along the Vedder River in Chilliwack.
The Vedder River Watershed is a diverse ecosystem located on the traditional lands of the Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe of the Stó:lō Nation. Holding significant ecological, cultural, spiritual, and recreational value, this floodplain area is crucial for the survival of salmon populations as well as many off-channel habitats for animals, and plant species.
Since 1997, the FVWC has been doing important work to conserve, protect, and restore watersheds across the Fraser Valley. Alongside the Coalition’s field work expertise, the FBC YP adds its experience of involving young folks across the province in on-the-ground solutions to sustainability challenges.
This partnership delivers a project designed to support youth to learn about both Indigenous and western approaches to ecosystem health. expose youth to different career pathways within restoration and sustainability, and enable youth to communicate knowledge to the wider community through creative storytelling to encourage the broader community to do their part in ensuring freshwater health. Canada Water Agency’s investment in this project enhances opportunities to deliver significant restoration outcomes through expansion of capacity for field work and strengthening relationships with community partners. It also helps young people cultivate a sense of confidence in conservation work and deepens their commitment to sustainability in their communities.
Thank you to all of the youth who have applied for this initiative! We will be in touch soon with next steps.
The Vedder River Restoration Project is made possible with funding through EcoAction, a program of the Canada Water Agency, which supports partner-led projects across Canada that improve water quality and protect fresh water and ecosystem health through local actions and innovative solutions.
Funding Partners
project partners
