Waterbodies

On this podcast (recorded on-location in False Creek), we're platforming expert conversations to foster a deeper, mutual relationship between people and urban waterways, and amplify local voices shaping public policy. As beautiful as False Creek is today, we know it could be so much more tomorrow. As the former site of heavy industry, these waters have been recognized as needing significant rehabilitation for almost a century. We dream of a False Creek that is safely swimmable, resilient to rising sea levels, an embodiment of Indigenous and community co-governance, and a place of thriving human culture and biodiversity. We're calling for False Creek to be included in Canada’s 30 by 30 conservation goals through designation as a National Urban Marine Park with Indigenous co-governance. Nestled next to our city’s most densely populated neighbourhoods, and crossed by nearly a quarter of a million commuters every day, False Creek is Vancouver’s most significant interface with the Pacific Ocean. It is beloved by residents and tourists alike, but has been recognized as needing significant rehabilitation for over a century. Responsible and visionary stewardship of these waters will have innumerable co-benefits: For Public Health Access to vibrant natural spaces, both blue and green, has been repeatedly shown to significantly improve human mental and physical well-being, and support a virtuous cycle of care for our environment. For Indigenous Reconciliation Reconciliation is more than a slogan where False Creek is concerned. Courts have found that the 1913 eviction of Squamish People from their village, Sen̓áḵw, was outright fraud. There is important and ennobling work still to be done - especially following the concept of “Conservation Through Reconciliation” where everyone benefits, including the vast array of marine life that someday will thrive again. For More-than-Human Beings We now know that this living body of water is a natural entity with potential legal rights. False Creek nurtures a vast range of lifeforms that have the right to thrive, to be left alone. False Creek Friends is committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development goals that proclaim the Rights of Nature. For Climate Resilience Sea level rise and climate-related storm surges pose significant risks to Vancouver's coastal areas, including parts of downtown, the False Creek Flats and along the Fraser River. Softening the shoreline must be an integral part of Vancouver's flood management. For Sport and Leisure Currently False Creek waters are classified by government as only safe for “secondary contact” - meaning you should not get wet. And yet thousands of recreational paddlers do get splashed, and some get sick. The uncertainty needs to be eliminated so everyone can jump in without fear. For Environmental & Social Justice Human access to the marine area of False Creek largely benefits a privileged class that can afford to be on the water. And yet, in 2023, the government of Canada passed a law that everyone has a right to a healthy environment. A biodiverse, swimmable False Creek must be available to all. Visit FalseCreekFriends.org to learn more or to get involved.