TORCA is filing an application with Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC) to undertake the stewardship of Eagle Mountain mountain biking trails. This project includes upgrading and maintaining the trails which are currently being used and eventually constructing new trails to better tie together the network. Our goal is a well-maintained sustainable network that provides public recreational mountain biking spaces.
To better understand how the activities on Eagle Mountain affect fish and wildlife, TORCA received a tour of both the Noons Creek and Mossom Creek hatcheries. Salmon stock drastically decreased in past years, in part caused by loss of habitat and increased urbanized developments . This affects other species in our area too, including harbour seals, birds, and bears.
The hatcheries have been working for more than 20 years to restore salmon counts as well as protect riparian areas. Through their efforts, there are now once again salmon in Noons Creek and Mossom Creek. Their work has been substantial and is on-going.
Eagle Mountain is part of the watershed that includes Noons Creek and Mossom Creek. A riparian zone is land within 30 m from an aquatic body and is usually protected from development by provincial and federal laws (i.e., Water Act and Fisheries Act) . As part of the stewardship application, TORCA has reviewed the potential impact of the Eagle Mountain trails on the water bodies. Our priorities include:
- Protect creeks through proper and designated creek crossings
- Prevent sedimentation in the creeks by minimizing trail erosion
- Aim to preserve soil and plant life in riparian zones near trails
- Increase understanding of potentially endangered wildlife and plant species
While the fish head downstream, the creeks themselves are affected by what happens upstream on Eagle Mountain, including our mountain biking trails. As part of TORCA’s application with RSTBC to steward the Eagle Mountain trails, we are committed to ensuring the longevity of the creek and riparian habitats.