WaterWeeks is an opportunity for Langley residents this September and October to immerse the importance of water.
“[It is an] annual series of events designed to encourage active community engagement in local environmental stewardship, while experiencing the best of Langley’s natural environment,” said Lisa Dreves, stewardship coordinator at the Langley Environmental Partners Society (LEPS).
Individual groups also host community clean-ups, invasive plants pulling and tree plantings.
"Every watershed in Langley is represented by a stewardship group, as well we have three greater Langley groups: Langley Field Naturalists, Climate Crisis Langley Action Partners, and the Langley Farmers Institute. Connect with me at stewardship@leps.bc.ca for more information about the individual groups,” she said.
The first WaterWeeks event, World Rivers Day, on Sunday, Sept. 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Williams Park, 68 Avenue and 238 Street, will celebrate the importance of local water resources, Dreves said.
“This family-friendly event will feature interactive activities and opportunities to learn what residents can do to protect and conserve Langley’s watersheds. The event will be held to celebrate Salmon River and all the other creeks and rivers that are the lifelines of our community,” she explained.
The second event is an outdoor film screening of "Soul of the Fraser" on Thursday, Sept. 26, at Derby Reach Heritage Area on 10716 Allard Cres. from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
“In this screening held along the banks of the mighty Fraser, local filmmakers explore the Fraser Estuary, the river delta beneath the urban sprawl of Vancouver. The filmmakers desire to use this film to bring the soul back to the Fraser, through educating the public about the ecological history they walk on. Popcorn will be provided, and you are advised to bring your own chair,” said Devres.
This year will be the first year of the ForestFest, on Saturday, Sept. 28 at Williams Park on 68 Avenue and 238 Street between 12 p.m and 4 p.m.
The ForestFest will feature a Raptors Ridge presentation, chainsaw carving, games and activities, a scavenger hunt, educational panels, exhibitor panels, exhibitor booths, and food trucks. Everyone in attendance will receive a seedling to take home.
Exhibitors for the ForestFest include the Langley Field Naturalists, Fortis BC, BC National Forest Week, Campbell’s Gold Honey Farm, Fraser Valley Regional Library, LEPS, Metro Vancouver, and the Township horticulture department.
“Hosted by the Township of Langley as part of the BC National Forest Week, this first annual family- friendly event celebrates forests, and encourages the Langley community to explore and enjoy nature. Free admission, and no registration required,” Dreves said.
The Streamside Clean Up will be held on the next day, on Sunday, Sept. 29 from 10 a.m to 12 p.m. at Yorkson Creek on 8218 207A St.
“Friends and family are welcomed of all ages to stroll the stream banks and remove accumulated trash from the stream banks of this salmon-bearing stream prior to spawning season. All supplies will be provided, and there is an RSVP for planning purposes,” said Dreves.
The following will be the Pollinator Patch Planting, held Oct. 12 from 10 a.m to 12 p.m. at Otter Park on 20 Avenue and 248 Street.
This event will revolve around “helping the Bertrand Creek Enhancement Society and Langley Field Naturalists plant a pollinator patch. [People will] install native trees and shrubs that attract a variety of pollinator species and learn how you can enhance habitat in your own backyard,” she explained.
The West Creek Wetlands Walk will be held on Oct.19 at 10 a.m to 1 p.m. at the unique ecological site in Glen Valley.
The wetlands have “one the largest areas of wildlife habitat in the municipality including nearly 170 animals using the natural landscape, including up to 22 endangered or threatened species. This site is also an important temporary home for migrating waterfowl and songbirds,” she said.
“Join us for a guided tour of this 160-acre gem, one of the largest areas of wildlife habitat in Langley. Must be 12 plus and capable of walking a distance on uneven trails in forested terrain. The exact location will be provided upon registration,” Dreves noted.
The seventh event, the Little Campbell Invasive Pull, is from 10 a.m to 12 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 20 at Langley Municipal Nature Park on 4 Avenue and 224 Street.
There are many “invasive plant species are invading our parks and threatening native plant and animal communities. Come to help enhance habitat as you help rid the world of these alien invaders. All equipment and refreshments will be provided,” said Dreves.
Dig in Treeplanting, the final event, will be on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Meadows Edge Park located on Willoughby Way at 198 Street.
“WaterWeeks concludes with community treeplanting. Residents can plant trees to encourage healthy habitats. All supplies and refreshments will be provided, and sturdy footwear is required. The event will run rain or shine,” said Dreves.
All of the tree planting will be done by a riverside so people should dress appropriately.
Although the events are all free and open to the public. Space is limited, and registration is often required. To register, contact 604-532-3511 or exec_director@leps.bc.ca.
LEPS is looking for volunteers for World Rivers Day Festival on Sept. 22 as well as for individual stewardship groups.
“You can volunteer to help at the event or just come and learn about stewarding our local streams,” Dreves added.
People can volunteer, contact the executive director at exec_director@leps.bc.ca.
