
In the face of alarming climate change trends, coastal ecosystems are struggling with the consequences of increased storm surges and king tides. The delicate balance of these environments is under threat, and urgent action is needed to preserve their unique beauty and biodiversity. In a promising turn of events, Iona Beach Regional Park has received a much-needed boost to restore and protect its endangered coastal dune ecosystems.
Last year, an unprecedented storm surge and king tide caused severe damage to the beach, causing severe damage to its delicate habitat. Thanks to the generosity of MBS Equipment Co., a significant pledge of $25,000 was made to support the restoration efforts. This support paved the way for a comprehensive project aimed at not only repairing the damage but also fortifying the resilience of this unique coastal ecosystem.
- Log Cleanup (August – September 2023): The initial phase involved the meticulous removal of logs, a crucial step in clearing the way for the subsequent restoration activities.
- Invasives Removal and Beach Planting (October 2023): The second stage focused on eliminating invasive species and introducing native flora to strengthen the ecosystem. The chosen plants, including 120 dune grass (Elymus mollis) and 144 coastal strawberry (Fragaria chiloensis) plants, have been carefully selected for their compatibility with the coastal environment.
Key achievements of this project include:
- Log Removal: Fourteen 100 cubic yard bins of logs have been successfully removed and repurposed for beneficial reuse, amounting to an impressive 1400 cubic yards. This concerted effort has significantly improved the landscape’s visual appeal and removed potential hazards to the delicate habitat.
- Dune Area Cleanup: Logs have been successfully removed from a coastal sand dune area covering approximately 3000 square meters (0.3 hectares). This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication of the restoration team in reclaiming valuable habitat space.
- Planting Party: During EcoBlitz events, 120 dune grass and 144 coastal strawberry plants were used to play a pivotal role in reestablishing a balanced and resilient coastal ecosystem.
The restoration efforts at Iona Beach Regional Park stand as a beacon of hope in the face of climate change challenges. Thanks to the financial support from MBS Equipment Co. and the dedication of the restoration team and volunteers, the delicate coastal dune ecosystems are on the path to recovery. The meticulous planning and execution of the project promise not only to undo the damage caused by recent events but also to fortify the area against future threats. As we look forward to the positive changes that will unfold in the coming months, we are reminded of the collective responsibility we share in preserving the natural wonders that define the Metro Vancouver region.
