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METRO VANCOUVER REGIONAL DISTRICT (MVRD) - PARKS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

REGULAR BOARD MEETING Friday, May 26, 2017

9:00 A.M. 2nd Floor Boardroom, 4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia

Membership and Votes

A G E N D A1

A. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

1. May 26, 2017 Regular Parks Meeting AgendaThat the MVRD Board adopt the agenda for its regular Parks meeting scheduled forMay 26, 2017 as circulated.

B. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES

1. March 31, 2017 Regular Parks Meeting MinutesThat the MVRD Board adopt the minutes for its regular Parks meeting heldMarch 31, 2017 as circulated.

C. DELEGATIONS

D. INVITED PRESENTATIONS

E. CONSENT AGENDA Note: Directors may adopt in one motion all recommendations appearing on the Consent Agenda or, prior to the vote, request an item be removed from the Consent Agenda for debate or discussion, voting in opposition to a recommendation, or declaring a conflict of interest with an item.

1. REGIONAL PARKS COMMITTEE REPORTS

1.1 Crippen Regional Park - Davies Orchard Concept Options That the MVRD Board: a) direct staff to complete public engagement on two Davies Orchard concepts –

Concept 1: Open Space Focus and Concept 2: Heritage Focus; and

1 Note: Recommendation is shown under each item, where applicable.

Meeting 1 of 10

May 18, 2017

Metro Vancouver Regional District - Parks - 1

http://www.metrovancouver.org/boards/membership/board-members/Pages/RD-P.aspx

MVRD Board Agenda - Parks May 26, 2017

Agenda of 2

b) direct staff to report back to the Regional Parks Committee with the results of the public engagement and a final recommended Davies Orchard Concept.

1.2 Metro Vancouver Regional Parks 2016 Annual Visitor Use and Program Statistics That the MVRD Board receive for information the report dated March 7, 2017, titled “Metro Vancouver Regional Parks 2016 Annual Visitor Use and Program Statistics”.

2. CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER REPORTS 2.1 Delegations Received at Committee April 2017

That the MVRD Board receive for information the report, dated April 26, 2017, titled “Delegations Received at Committee April 2017” containing submissions received from the following delegates: a) Melissa Harrison, Chair, Bowen Heritage; and b) Judi Gedye, President, Bowen Heritage.

F. ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA G. REPORTS NOT INCLUDED IN CONSENT AGENDA H. MOTIONS FOR WHICH NOTICE HAS BEEN GIVEN I. OTHER BUSINESS J. BUSINESS ARISING FROM DELEGATIONS K. RESOLUTION TO CLOSE MEETING

Note: The Board must state by resolution the basis under section 90 of the Community Charter on which the meeting is being closed. If a member wishes to add an item, the basis must be included below. That the MVRD Board close its regular Parks meeting scheduled for May 26, 2017 pursuant to the Community Charter provisions, Section 90 (1) (e) and (g) as follows: “90 (1) A part of a board meeting may be closed to the public if the subject matter being

considered relates to or is one or more of the following: (g) litigation or potential litigation affecting the regional district. (i) the receipt of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including

communications necessary for that purpose. ” L. RISE AND REPORT (Items Released from Closed Meeting) M. ADJOURNMENT/CONCLUSION

That the MVRD Board adjourn/conclude its regular Parks meeting of May 26, 2017.


METRO VANCOUVER REGIONAL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS - PARKS

Minutes of the Regular Parks Meeting of the Metro Vancouver Regional District (MVRD) Board of Directors held at 9:03 a.m. on Friday, March 31, 2017 in the 2nd Floor Boardroom, 4330 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Port Coquitlam, Chair, Director Greg Moore Vancouver, Vice Chair, Director Raymond Louie Anmore, Director John McEwen Belcarra, Director Ralph Drew Bowen Island, Director Maureen Nicholson Burnaby, Director Derek Corrigan Burnaby, Director Sav Dhaliwal Burnaby, Director Colleen Jordan Coquitlam, Director Craig Hodge Coquitlam, Director Richard Stewart Delta, Director Lois Jackson Electoral Area A, Alternate Director Bill Holmes for

Maria Harris Langley City, Director Rudy Storteboom Langley Township, Director Charlie Fox Langley Township, Director Bob Long Lions Bay, Director Karl Buhr New Westminster, Director Jonathan Coté North Vancouver City, Director Darrell Mussatto

(arrived at 9:21 a.m.) North Vancouver District, Director Richard Walton Port Moody, Director Mike Clay

Richmond, Director Malcolm Brodie Richmond, Director Harold Steves Surrey, Director Tom Gill Surrey, Alternate Director Mike Starchuk for Bruce

Hayne Surrey, Director Barbara Steele Surrey, Director Judy Villeneuve Surrey, Alternate Director Dave Woods for Linda

Hepner Tsawwassen, Director Bryce Williams (arrived at

9:12 a.m.) Vancouver, Alternate Director Elizabeth Ball for

Gregor Robertson (arrived at 9:24 a.m.) Vancouver, Alternate Director Melissa De Genova

for Heather Deal Vancouver, Director Kerry Jang Vancouver, Director Geoff Meggs Vancouver, Director Andrea Reimer Vancouver, Director Tim Stevenson West Vancouver, Director Michael Smith White Rock, Director Wayne Baldwin

MEMBERS ABSENT: Abbotsford, Director Sandy Blue Abbotsford, Director Henry Braun

Maple Ridge, Director Nicole Read Pitt Meadows, Director John Becker

STAFF PRESENT: Carol Mason, Chief Administrative Officer Janis Knaupp, Assistant to Regional Committees, Board and Information Services Chris Plagnol, Corporate Officer

Minutes of the Regular Parks Meeting of the Metro Vancouver Regional District (MVRD) Board of Directors held on Friday, March 31, 2017 Page 1 of 7

Section B 1


A. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA 1. March 31, 2017 Regular Parks Meeting Agenda

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the MVRD Board: a) amend the agenda for its regular Parks meeting scheduled for

March 31, 2017 by adding: i) Item C.1 Alison White, Blackberry Artist Society and Port Moody Art

Center Society; ii) Item C.2 Robert Simons, Past President, Port Moody Heritage Society; iii) Item E1.1 on-table replacement page 12 titled “Table 3.0 Summary of

Four Concept Options”; and b) adopt the agenda as amended.

CARRIED

B. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES

1. February 24, 2017 Regular Parks Meeting Minutes It was MOVED and SECONDED That the MVRD Board adopt the minutes for its regular Parks meeting held February 24, 2017 as circulated.

CARRIED C. DELEGATIONS

1. Alison White, Blackberry Artist Society and Port Moody Art Center Society Alison White and Jane Appleby, Blackberry Artist Society and Port Moody Art Centre Society, provided members with a slideshow of artist paintings and spoke to members about the Passionate Outdoor Painters’ experience painting Belcarra South cottages and about potential opportunities for artists in residence to use the cottages. On-table executive summary is retained with the March 31, 2017 MVRD Board agenda.

2. Robert Simons, Past President, Port Moody Heritage Society

Speaking to Item E1.1 of the agenda, Robert Simons, Past President, Port Moody Heritage Society (PMHS), commented on the Belcarra cabins being the last known early summer settlement in the Burrard Inlet, and requested that the Board consider the heritage value of the cabins to the local community, and give consideration to establishing a public heritage park within Belcarra Regional Park.

9:12 a.m. Director Williams arrived at the meeting.



In response to questions, Mr. Simons commented about: • the Bole House being the anchor of the heritage precinct area which led to

the creation of the other cottages • PMHS efforts related to fundraising, museum operations and advocacy for

heritage protection of Port Moody buildings and redevelopment areas • interest to see cottages retained for artist and cultural peoples in residence,

creation of a heritage garden, and expansion of regional parks activities

On-table executive summary is retained with the March 31, 2017 MVRD Board agenda.

9:21 a.m. Director Mussatto arrived at the meeting. D. INVITED PRESENTATIONS No items presented. E. CONSENT AGENDA

The following item was removed from the Consent Agenda, for consideration under Section F. Items Removed from the Consent Agenda: 1.1 Belcarra Regional Park – Moving forward with Public Use of Belcarra South It was MOVED and SECONDED That the MVRD Board adopt the recommendations contained in the following items presented in the March 31, 2017 MVRD Board Consent Agenda: 1.2 Burnaby Lake Regional Park - Agreement Renewal for Picken House with

Catching the Spirit Youth Society 2.1 Delegations Received at Committee March 2017

CARRIED The items and recommendations referred to above are as follows:

1.2 Burnaby Lake Regional Park - Agreement Renewal for Picken House with

Catching the Spirit Youth Society Report dated January 30, 2017 from Jamie Vala, Parks Central Division Manager, Regional Parks, seeking MVRD Board authorization to renew the Agreement with Catching the Spirit Youth Society for use of the Picken House in Burnaby Lake Regional Park, for a further five-year term, commencing May 1, 2017 and ending April 30, 2022, for a nominal fee of $10. Recommendation: That the MVRD Board approve the Agreement between the Metro Vancouver Regional District and Catching the Spirit Youth Society for a term five-year term and nominal fee of $10 commencing May 1, 2017 and ending April 30, 2022 for use of the Picken House in Burnaby Lake Regional Park.

Adopted on Consent



2.1 Delegations Received at Committee March 2017 Report dated March 1, 2017 from Kelly Hardy, Office Supervisor, Board and Information Services, Legal and Legislative Services, providing the Board with delegation activities at Committee in response to Board direction to keep the Board informed. Recommendation: That the MVRD Board receive for information the report, dated March 1, 2017, titled “Delegations Received at Committee March 2017” containing submissions received from the following delegates: a) Jo Ledingham, Belcarra South Preservation Society.

Adopted on Consent F. ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA

1.1 Belcarra Regional Park – Moving forward with Public Use of Belcarra South Report dated March 1, 2017 from the Parks Committee, together with report dated February 17, 2017 from Jamie Vala, Parks Central Division Manager, Regional Parks, seeking MVRD Board adoption of a preferred option for Belcarra South based on the results of the public engagement design and planning process Metro Vancouver conducted in 2016, and seeking direction on the next steps in the process.

9:24 a.m. Alternate Director Ball arrived at the meeting.

Discussion ensued about consultation with the City of Port Moody and Village of Belcarra on the matter. Members expressed concerns about the timing of Port Moody’s heritage designation, cabin conditions and associated costs, tenancy status, restricted public access, and implications of proceeding with consultation. It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Metro Vancouver Regional Board refer the March 1, 2017 report titled “Belcarra Regional Park – Moving Forward with Public Use of Belcarra South”, to the City of Port Moody and Village of Belcarra, to work with Metro Vancouver on alternatives or alternate uses of the cabins before a decision is made, and to consult on the general moving forward on public use.

DEFEATED Main Motion It was MOVED and SECONDED That the MVRD Board: a) endorse Belcarra South design concept Option 2 which retains the Bole

House and Cabin 6 as multi-purpose buildings, gives priority to more natural open space, and opens the area to public use;



b) direct staff to forward the report dated March 1, 2017, titled, “Belcarra Regional Park – Moving forward with Public Use of Belcarra South” to the City of Port Moody and to the Village of Belcarra for comments; and

c) direct staff to post the report on the Metro Vancouver Regional Parks Public Engagement web page.

Comments were further offered about consulting with the City of Port Moody and Village of Belcarra.

Amendment to the Main Motion It was MOVED and SECONDED That the Metro Vancouver Regional District Board amend the Main Motion, in part b), by replacing the phrase “comments” with the phrase “consultation”.

Members expressed concerns about the meaning and implications of consultation and requested a legal opinion on the matter.

Agenda Varied The order of the agenda was varied to consider a resolution to close meeting at this point. K. RESOLUTION TO CLOSE MEETING

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the MVRD Board close its regular meeting scheduled for March 31, 2017 pursuant to the Community Charter provisions, Section 90 (1) (i) as follows: “90 (1) A part of a board meeting may be closed to the public if the subject matter

being considered relates to or is one or more of the following: (i) the receipt of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege,

including communications necessary for that purpose. ” CARRIED

Adjournment The MVRD Board adjourned its regular Parks meeting of March 31, 2017 at 9:59 a.m. to convene a closed meeting. Reconvene The MVRD Board reconvened its regular Parks meeting of March 31, 2017 at 10:24 a.m. with the following members being present: MEMBERS PRESENT: Port Coquitlam, Chair, Director Greg Moore Vancouver, Vice Chair, Director Raymond Louie Anmore, Director John McEwen Bowen Island, Director Maureen Nicholson Burnaby, Director Derek Corrigan

Burnaby, Director Sav Dhaliwal Burnaby, Director Colleen Jordan Coquitlam, Director Craig Hodge Coquitlam, Director Richard Stewart



MEMBERS PRESENT (Continued): Electoral Area A, Alternate Director Bill Holmes for

Maria Harris Langley City, Director Rudy Storteboom Langley Township, Director Charlie Fox Langley Township, Director Bob Long New Westminster, Director Jonathan Coté North Vancouver City, Director Darrell Mussatto North Vancouver District, Director Richard Walton Port Moody, Director Mike Clay Richmond, Director Malcolm Brodie Richmond, Director Harold Steves Surrey, Director Tom Gill Surrey, Alternate Director Mike Starchuk for Bruce

Hayne

Surrey, Director Barbara Steele Surrey, Director Judy Villeneuve Surrey, Alternate Director Dave Woods for Linda

Hepner Tsawwassen, Director Bryce Williams Vancouver, Alternate Director Elizabeth Ball for

Gregor Robertson Vancouver, Alternate Director Melissa De Genova

for Heather Deal Vancouver, Director Kerry Jang Vancouver, Director Andrea Reimer Vancouver, Director Tim Stevenson West Vancouver, Director Michael Smith White Rock, Director Wayne Baldwin

MEMBERS ABSENT: Abbotsford, Director Sandy Blue Abbotsford, Director Henry Braun Belcarra, Director Ralph Drew Delta, Director Lois Jackson

Lions Bay, Director Karl Buhr Maple Ridge, Director Nicole Read Pitt Meadows, Director John Becker Vancouver, Director Geoff Meggs

Discussion further ensued about implications with proceeding with consultation. Question on the Amendment to the Main Motion Question was then called on the amendment to the Main Motion and it was

DEFEATED

Question on the Main Motion Question was then called on the Main Motion and it was

CARRIED Directors Clay, Coté, Holmes, Long, Steves,

Storteboom, and Williams voted in the negative.

On-table replacement page titled “Table 3.0 Summary of Four Concept Options”, is retained with the March 31, 2017 MVRD Board agenda.

G. REPORTS NOT INCLUDED IN CONSENT AGENDA No items presented. H. MOTIONS FOR WHICH NOTICE HAS BEEN GIVEN No items presented.



I. OTHER BUSINESS No items presented. J. BUSINESS ARISING FROM DELEGATIONS No items presented. K. RESOLUTION TO CLOSE MEETING

This item was previously considered. L. RISE AND REPORT (Items Released from Closed Meeting) No items presented. M. ADJOURNMENT/CONCLUSION

It was MOVED and SECONDED That the MVRD Board conclude its regular Parks meeting of March 31, 2017.

CARRIED (Time: 10:26 a.m.)

CERTIFIED CORRECT

Chris Plagnol, Corporate Officer

Greg Moore, Chair

21247927 FINAL



To: Regional Parks Committee From: Jeffrey Fitzpatrick, Division Manager, West Area, Regional Parks Date: March 24, 2017 Meeting Date: April 26, 2017 Subject: Crippen Regional Park - Davies Orchard Concept Options RECOMMENDATION That the MVRD Board: a) direct staff to complete public engagement on two Davies Orchard concepts – Concept 1: Open

Space Focus and Concept 2: Heritage Focus; and b) direct staff to report back to the Regional Parks Committee with the results of the public

engagement and a final recommended Davies Orchard Concept. PURPOSE To provide the Regional Parks Committee with an update on the Davies Orchard planning study and to seek MVRD Board direction to complete public engagement. BACKGROUND Staff have undertaken a planning study to improve regional park use of the Davies Orchard area of Crippen Regional Park, and to set priorities for future improvements. The Davies Orchard is 0.9 hectares / 2.3 acre waterfront site that includes 10 cottages in varying states of repair. Nine of the buildings are currently used; six are vacant (Attachment 1). A 2013 “Request for Expressions of Interest” to upgrade, operate and maintain the cottages and grounds yielded no suitable proposal. The current planning study was introduced to the Regional Parks Committee at the April 13, 2016 meeting, by way of the information report titled Davies Orchard Cottages Site and Building Restoration Plan.

The deteriorating condition of the unused cottages, lack of clearly defined program, limited open space and relative seclusion from the rest of the Snug Cove area, has led to underuse of the site. Project goals are to better integrate Davies Orchard into Crippen Regional Park, improve public access and use of the Davies Orchard area, and to celebrate the heritage of the site.

PLANNING PROCESS In 2016, staff completed initial public engagement, site, building and heritage assessments, and the development of two concepts for the Davies Orchard. The results, rationale and cost of two alternative concepts are presented in this report. Staff have worked closely with the Bowen Island Municipality staff to ensure they are informed and engaged in the planning process. On April 18, 2016, Metro Vancouver staff appeared as a delegation to introduce the project to Bowen Island Municipality Mayor and Council.

Section E 1.1

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Crippen Regional Park - Davies Orchard Concept Options Regional Park Committee Meeting Date: April 26, 2017

Page 2 of 7

PUBLIC INPUT Public Engagement Event On June 4, 2016, a public engagement event on Bowen Island was held to introduce the project and seek feedback. The two-part event included an invited workshop in the morning and a public community conversation in the afternoon. All participants had an opportunity to provide input. Participants in the June 4, 2016 event were self-identified mainly as local residents. Twenty people attended the morning session and forty people attended the afternoon session. The following themes emerged from the feedback provided throughout the day: • Interest in the historic value of the cottages and a desire to see some or all upgraded; • Support for improved connections to the site and increased opportunities for public use; • A desire for family and child friendly amenities and programing on site; • A desire for public access to the cottage buildings, if upgraded; • A desire for an open, programmable space, given the forested nature of the rest of the Park; • A desire to see the site upgraded and made more welcoming.

Several participants expressed an interest in using the cottages and site for uses that are not provided in regional parks, including social housing, a municipal playground, and exclusive private use of the cottages for clubs or organizations. These ideas received no further consideration. Region Wide Survey A region wide on-line survey carried out by a market research company in November 2016 investigated priorities for regional park program, facility and building use options at both Belcarra and Crippen Regional Parks. The online survey generated 1,422 completed surveys, which are considered representative of the Metro Vancouver population based on age, gender, and municipality of residence. Attachment 2 provides a detailed summary of the survey results. Respondents’ top ranked priorities for the Davies Orchard were: 1. Providing public access to beach areas (36%) 2. Improving roads, trails, and bike paths (29%)

Lower ranked priorities included improving educational signage and displays (15%), renovating some or all of the cottage buildings (14%), providing improved and additional Regional Park programming activities (13%). Letters from Historical Organizations In the fall of 2016, staff received letters from the Heritage Vancouver Society, Vancouver Historical Society, and Bowen Heritage advocating for preservation of cultural and historic values of the site and cottages (Attachments 3, 4 and 5). Conclusions Local residents value the cottages as an important reminder of Bowen Island’s past. Most participants in the public engagement event expressed a desire to see the cottages upgraded and preserved. Current use of the site is low, with many participants indicating a desire to access the site, see it improved and better used. Regionally there is broad interest in trail, open space and



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other nature focused amenities and less interest in preserving buildings, except among historical groups. SITE AND COTTAGE BUILDING ASSESSMENT Site Assessment The site was assessed to identify opportunities and challenges to accomplish the project goals. Key challenges include obstruction of views, lack of defined public space, wayfinding and the appearance of ‘private space’. The site presents opportunities to create a vibrant park hub, establish open space that supports regional park and partner programs, celebrate the unique heritage of the site, and improve sight lines, circulation and access. Attachment 6 provides site assessment details. Historical Assessment The historical assessment has led to the understanding that the value of the cottages is in the clustering of the buildings and the topography of the site rather than in any individual building. The modest design and simple wood construction was uniform among all Orchard cottages with various modifications occurring over time. All cottages were oriented to the east with a verandah stretching across the east facade, to take advantage of the harbor views. In the early 1900s, William Davies, the original land owner, rented tents for camping in his orchard, and later built tent platforms. The Union Steamship Company purchased the land in 1922, and constructed 20 simple cottages. These cottages, and the remaining ten, were just a fraction of the nearly 200 cottages the Union Steamship Company built on Bowen Island in the 1920s and 1930s. In 1983, Metro Vancouver acquired Davies Orchard as part of the 220 hectares land purchase at Crippen Regional Park. Note two other original cottages, the Seaside cottages, are located nearby, also in the regional park and were not park of this planning effort. The Davies Orchard site, including the ten cottages that remain, represent a story of the era when Bowen Island served as a popular regional vacation destination. The cottages, orchard planting, and broader site present an opportunity to tell the story of a landscape that has been a destination for regional residents to connect with nature for generations. Current Cottage Use Currently four cottages are upgraded. Of these four, two are operated under contract as short term overnight stays (Cottage 19 and 18) and two are used by Bowen Heritage, a community group, as a museum and office (Cottage 20 and 10). The remaining six cottages are not actively used and are in poor condition (Cottage 8, 9, 11, 12, 14 and 17). (Attachment 1) Bowen Heritage is focused on protecting and preserving the cottages and surrounding orchard. The group uses the cottages to support site tours and offers several community events throughout the year with regional park interpreters participating. Bowen Heritage has expressed interest in continued cooperation with Metro Vancouver and use of the two cottage buildings. A five-year contract for operation of the short-term rental cottages expires in 2017. The contractor is responsible for advertising, booking and managing rentals for cottages, as well as looking after the cottage interiors. Metro Vancouver receives $12,000 in revenue annually, which offsets



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maintenance costs. The occupancy rate is only 34 percent over the year with high occupancy through the summer. Cottage Use Program A range of potential Cottage program options were assessed to inform concept development (Attachment 7). The existing use of the four upgraded cottages, as Bowen Heritage museum and office and as short-term rentals, are suitable uses that provide public benefit. Providing access to the cottage as a public bookable facility was also identified as a suitable potential use. Cottage Condition Assessment The four cottages that are in use are in generally good condition, requiring some maintenance upgrades to ensure long-term viability. Examples of upgrades required include chimney and roof repairs/replacement, painting, porch and post repairs. The cost ranges from $44,000 - $75,000 for each cottage. The six remaining cottages are in poor condition and require major upgrades to be suitable for park use. Examples of upgrades required include replacing roofing, insulation, finishing, wiring, plumbing, windows, footings, removing rotten wood and ad hock additions, and addressing rat infestations. Mold was observed in several cottages. The cost to restore/rebuild these cottages ranges from $169,000 to $254,000 each, not including servicing costs. Attachment 8 provides a cottage-by-cottage breakdown of condition, scope and order of magnitude (+/- 25%) cost of repair. There may be opportunity for limited material salvage and reuse if a decision is made to demolish any of the cottages. Upgrading and maintaining all of the ten buildings is costly. It is not possible to retain them all and still provide the desired public access, visibility, open space and other program elements in this constrained area. Furthermore, there is no park need and no suitable park uses for ten cottages. MUNICIPAL HERITAGE CONSIDERATION The cottages do not have heritage designation and are not formally protected. In 2016, the Bowen Island Municipality Heritage Commission included the cottages in a draft heritage registry. Bowen Island Municipal Council has received this information, but has not taken any further action. CONCEPT OPTIONS Two concept options have been developed for the Davies Orchard site and are illustrated in Attachment 8. Concept development was informed by the landscape, heritage and building assessments, public input and project goals. Concept 1 – Open Space Focus, includes four cottages, large open space and nature discovery. The four cottages in good condition are retained in this option. Concept 2 – Heritage Focus also retains four cottages and upgrades two additional cottages. The concept is more building focused with slightly less open space provided than Concept 1. The two additional cottages would enhance the cluster effect that was identified as the key historical element.



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Common Public Use Elements - Both Options A number of elements are consistent in both concept options (layout, location vary). These include: • Central open space with views to Snug Cove for events, programs and informal use; • Reorganization of site circulation for vehicles and pedestrians to create better flow, improve

access, views into the site and recognition of the area as a public park. • The integration of orchard plantings as a defining site, ecological and historical feature; • A proposed nature trail through an area designated for stewardship and habitat creation; • Interpretive displays to tell the story of a multi-generational destination; • Decommissioned cottages marked with plinths to interpret and create useable space; and • A nature experience / programming area – including natural materials arranged for active family

friendly site use and a small grass amphitheater for regional park and partner programs. Table 1 provides a comparison of the Concept Options.

Staff seeks MVRD Board direction to complete public engagement on the two concepts.

Table 1: Concept Comparison Concept 1 - Open Space Focus Concept 2 - Heritage Focus

Description

Priority is on more open and nature experience / programmable space. The four cottages in good condition are retained.

Focus given to the historic use of the site. The four cottages in good condition are retained. Two additional cottages in poor condition are upgraded.

Site Amenities Common Elements, outlined above

Capital Cost $833,000 $1,340,000

Operating Cost $25,000 $35,000

# of Cottages retained

4 6

# of Cottages removed/salvaged

6 4

Use of buildings retained

• Two cottages (10, 20) continue as Bowen Heritage museum and office

• One Cottage (18) continues as short term overnight rental

• One cottage (19) converted from short term overnight rental to public bookable facility

• Two cottages (10, 20) continue as Bowen Heritage museum and office

• Two Cottages (18, 19) continue short term overnight rental

• Upgrade/rebuild 2 cottages (14, 12) for use as public bookable facilities



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ALTERNATIVES 1. That the MVRD Board:

a) direct staff to complete public engagement on two Davies Orchard concepts – Concept 1: Open Space Focus and Concept 2: Heritage Focus; and

b) direct staff to report back to the Regional Parks Committee with the results of the public engagement and a final recommended Davies Orchard Concept.

2. That the Regional Parks Committee receive the report dated March 24, 2017, titled “Crippen Regional Park – Davies Orchard Concept Options” for information and provide alternative direction to staff.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The continued public engagement program can be accommodated within existing budget. Once a preferred concept is selected, the MVRD Board will have to weigh the project’s costs and benefits compared to other possible regional park capital improvements, when the Capital Replacement and Development budget is prepared. Attachment 10 outlines order of magnitude cost estimates that can be expected. SUMMARY / CONCLUSION The Davies Orchard area is an important part of Crippen Regional Park, presently underutilized because it is not inviting and does not present as public space. Of ten cottages on the site, six are in poor condition, four have been partially upgraded and are used for a museum, office, and short term overnight stays. Two site plan concepts have been prepared to for purposes of further public engagement, one is Open Space Focused, and one is Heritage focused. The concepts reflect site and building assessments, local and regional public input, and Metro Vancouver’s Regional Parks mandate. Both options provide new opportunities for park visitors and reflect a balanced approach to the site and to the existing cottages, considering many factors. Community members value the cottages as a remnant of Bowen Island’s heritage. Regional residents prioritize trails, open space and other nature focused amenities above building preservation in regional parks. Alternative 1 recommended by staff. This option will allow staff to seek public input on the two concepts, and then finalize a preferred concept for MVRD Board approval.



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Attachments: (Orbit # 21001247) 1. Crippen Regional Park Davies Orchard Cottages Map 2. 2016 Regional Park Survey – Belcarra & Crippen Executive Brief, December 13, 2016 3. Correspondence dated October 11, 2016, from Heritage Vancouver to the MVRD Regional Parks

Director 4. Correspondence dated September 9, 2016, from the Vancouver Historical Society to the MVRD

Regional Parks Director 5. Correspondence dated October 19, 2016, from Bowen Heritage to the MVRD Regional Parks

Director 6. Site Assessment Summary 7. Cottage Building Program Analysis 8. Davies Orchard Cottage Condition Assessment with Cost Summary (includes photos) 9. Crippen Regional Park Concepts 1 and 2 10. Order of Magnitude Cost Estimate References: 1. http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks/learn/projects-and-initiatives/davies-

orchard/Pages/default.aspx 2. http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks/parks-greenways-reserves/crippen-regional-

park


http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks/learn/projects-and-initiatives/davies-orchard/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks/learn/projects-and-initiatives/davies-orchard/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks/parks-greenways-reserves/crippen-regional-park

http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks/parks-greenways-reserves/crippen-regional-park

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E1.1 Attachment1

2016 Regional Park Survey | Belcarra & Crippen Executive Brief: prepared on 13 December 2016

Key Themes

Residents’ priorities for regional parks reflect the activities they engage in. Hiking or walking along trails and picnicking are the most common activities residents engage in during their visits to regional parks. As a result, residents’ priorities align with improving those experiences. This also extends to publicly-owned buildings on park lands, as the largest proportion of residents feels that converting these buildings to shelters for picnicking is the best way to use them.

The term “heritage” produces a strong response. Renovating and maintain buildings is relatively low priority for residents when measured against the provision of specific services such as trails and picnic shelters. Despite this, when asked generally about the importance of maintaining and improving heritage buildings relative to other park services, 46% of residents said it should be more important than other park services. Follow-up questions that provide context about the cost of maintaining these buildings and the lack of regional park uses for them suggest that contextual information does change how residents’ prioritize the uses for heritage buildings.

Renovating existing buildings in Belcarra South is not a top priority for regional residents. As a priority, this ranks below environmental restoration, new park facilities, and improving public access to existing forested land and beach areas. A majority of residents (albeit a small majority) support the removal of some of these buildings if Metro Vancouver cannot find suitable regional park uses for them. This supports the suggestion made above about contextual information causing residents to re-consider the relative priority of maintaining heritage buildings.

There is a lot of room to improve Crippen’s name recognition. More regional residents have visited Crippen Regional Park than know it by name. One-in-ten residents have heard of Crippen. However, when provided a description and a map showing its location, half again as many recall visiting the park. In contrast, awareness of Belcarra is noticeably higher than visitation. Regional residents top two park improvements for Crippen are: providing public access to beach and improving roads, trails and cycle paths. Renovating some or all of the existing buildings was not a high prioirty.

E1.1 Attachment 2t


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Key Findings

General

Regional Park Visitation & Activities

Nearly all (96%) Metro Vancouver residents (“residents”) have visited one or more regional parks. A very strong majority (85%) have visited a regional park at least once in the past year, including forty-four percent (44%) who visited at least monthly. Visitation is universally higher in regions closest to each park.

The largest proportion (83%) of residents who have visited one or more regional parks hike or walk. Just over one-half (55%) participate in nature viewing. The other most common activities include picnicking (38%), walking dogs (25%), attending an event (22%), and visiting a nature centre (15%). Fewer engage in waterfront activities, including swimming (14%), kayaking or canoeing (10%), fishing or crabbing (6%), and boating (5%).

Facilities and buildings

What is important to us at regional parks? Facility importance typically reflects activity participation. Over eight-in-ten (83%) residents feel trails for walking or hiking are among the top two most important facilities at regional parks, followed at some distance by picnic tables and shelters (43%). A smaller minority selected swimming and beach access (17%), cycling paths (15%), nature centres (13%), or docks and piers (9%). Regionally, these results are relatively consistent.

What are the best uses for publicly-owned buildings on park land? The largest proportion (38%) of residents feel that renovating publicly-owned buildings on park lands into shelters for picnicking is one of the best uses for those buildings. Other choices include preserving them as historical buildings (28%), renovating them into education or nature houses (28%) or food services (24%). Just under two-in-ten (18%) feel they should be used for weddings, meetings, and events. The fewest residents feel they should be used for short-term overnight stays (8%) or artist studios or galleries (9%).

One-in-ten (10%) residents do not have a preference for how these buildings are used.

Older residents are more likely to feel that the best use for publicly-owned buildings is to preserve them as historical buildings:


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65 or older (34%) 55 to 64 (31%) 35 to 54 (29%) 18 to 34 (22%)

Do we support removing buildings? One-half (49%) of residents “support” (strongly + somewhat) removing buildings to redirect the cost savings to other regional park services when no regional park use exists. Three-in-ten (30%) “oppose” (strongly + somewhat) and two-in-ten (20%) do not have an opinion.

Residents with an annual household income over $100,000 are more likely to “support” (strongly + somewhat) than those with lower household income (60% versus 48%). Support for removing buildings increases with regional park visitation frequency:

Visit not at all in the past year or never (39%) Visit five times per year or less often (47%) Visit every two months or more often (54% support)

Are heritage buildings a more important priority than other park services? Just under one-half (46%) of residents feel that maintaining and improving heritage buildings on regional park lands is “more important” (much + somewhat) than other park services, including thirteen percent (13%) who feel it is “much more important”. Just under two-in-ten (18%) feel they are “less important” (much + somewhat). Three-in-ten (31%) feel they are “neither more nor less important” and six percent (6%) do not have an opinion.

Belcarra South

Priorities for Belcarra South

Just under four-in-ten (38%) feel that among the potential improvements to Belcarra South, environmental restoration is a top-two priority, including one-quarter (27%) who feel it is a top priority. The same proportion (38%) feel providing new park facilities is a top-two priority, including two-in-ten (19%) who feel is a top priority. One-third (34%) of residents feel improving public access to existing forested land and beach areas is a top-two priority, including fourteen percent (14%) who feel it is a top priority.

Fewer residents feel the following are a top-two priority:


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Renovating existing buildings (23%) Improving vehicular access and parking (17%) Improving access for cyclists (7%) Two-in-ten (20%) residents do not have a preference.

Regionally, residents in the central area of Metro Vancouver are more likely to prioritize environmental restoration than are those from other areas of Metro Vancouver (31% top priority versus 22% to 24%).

More frequent Belcarra visitors are more likely than infrequent and non-visitors to include providing new park facilities as a top-two priority (26% past year visitors versus 14% among less frequent and non-visitors).

Do we feel park buildings should be removed? Metro Vancouver is unlikely to find suitable uses for all eight publicly-owned buildings in Belcarra South. A small majority (57%) of residents feel that some buildings should be removed. Two-in-ten (21%) feel none of the buildings should be removed. A small minority (6%) feels all the buildings should be removed. Sixteen percent (16%) have no preference.

Crippen Regional Park

Priorities for Davies Orchard Area

Thirty-six percent (36%) of residents feel that providing public access to beach areas is a top-two priority, including just over two-in-ten (22%) who feel it is a top priority. Three-in-ten (29%) residents feel improving roads, trails and cycle paths is a top-two priority, including fifteen percent (15%) who feel it is a top priority.

Fewer residents feel the following are a top-two priority: Providing improved educational signage and displays (15%) Renovating all or some of the existing buildings (14%) Providing improved and additional regional park programming activities (13%). The largest proportion of residents (46%) do not have a preference regarding priorities for the Davies Orchard area of Crippen Regional Park.

Methodology Surveys: 1,422 adult residents. Field dates: November 16 to 27, 2016.


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Population: The table on the following page displays the areas sampled for this study.

Methodology: Online. Weighting: The final data were weighted to match age and gender

characteristics and regional distribution of Metro Vancouver residents.

Languages: Surveys were conducted in English. Margin of error: The total sample is representative of 750 Metro Vancouver

residents. A probability sample of 750 carries a margin of error +/-3.6 percentage points 95% of the time.

A note on weighting: At the request of the client, several regions were oversampled to allow reasonable separate analysis of these regions. After weighting of oversampled areas the total sample is representative of a random sample of 750 Metro Vancouver residents.


E1.1 Attachment 3

Heritage Vancouver www.haritagavancouvar.org

[email protected]

60 .. 26 .. 9 .. 11

October 11, 2016

Mitch Sokalski Regional Parks Director 4330 Kingswa!:J Burnaby BC, V5H 4G8

PO Box 7lf123, Hillcrest Park PO Vancouver BC V6G 3E1

Canada

Re: Davies Orchard Cottages on Bowen Island

Dear Mr. Sokolski,

We are writing to extend our support for Bowen Island Heritage Preservation Association's campaign to retain the Davies Orchard Cottages.

The Davies Orchard is a cultural landscape in which the cottages, surrounded by a beautiful ecological setting, has special cultural meaning for British Columbians as an important da!:J trip and vacation resort destination during a formative period of Vancouver and Bowen Island's history. This is also the only example of an intact and accessible holiday cottage precinct of the steamship era in the province. Although this era has passed, the use of this cultural landscape as a destination for Vancouverites taking da!:J trips and Bowen Island residents is still very relevant today and in the future as recreation and local destination travel to spots of natural beaut!:J like Bowen Island are very much a part of the routines and lifestyle of the local population.

Therefore, we encourage you to incorporate the Davies Orchard Cottages into a plan for the park to take advantage of the opportunity to not onl!:J celebrate its past, but to retain and enhance it as an asset that can be continuall!:J enjoyed b!:J those in the region now and into the future.

Sincerely,

Bill Yuen Manager, Heritage Vancouver Societ!:J


E1.1 Attachment 4

September 9, 2016

Mitch Sokalski, Regional Parks Director, 4330 Kingsway,

'Vancouver historical Society Box 3071, Vancouver,, 1.C. V6B 3X6 www. vancouver-h ist6rieal-society. ca

Membership information: membershipvhs@ mail.com

Burnaby BC, VSH 4G8 [email protected]

SUBJECT: Davies Orchard Cottages on Bowen Island

Dear Mr. Sokalski,

At its directors' meeting on September 1, 2016, the Vancouver Historical Society agreed unanimously to support the campaign by heritage interests on Bowen Island to retain the historic cottages in Davies Orchard at Snug Cove.

The Davies Orchard Cottages are a unique asset, not just in Metro Vancouver but in the province. They evoke, in a way no signage ever could, the holiday ambience Bowen Island presented for Vancouverites in an earlier era. Combined with some sensitive interpretation and the contemporary attractions of Snug Cove, the cottages could be a real destination for daytrippers and Island residents alike.

The similar situation of the Hollyburn Mountain cottages in West Vancouver demonstrates how occupied, functioning small homes can co-exist with 21st century recreation. We urge you to study that situation and determine how the Bowen cottages can be integrated into a new park plan.

There are plenty of opportunities for visitors and residents of Bowen to experience natural landscapes - the trail system, the surviving forests, the shoreline. However, the opportunities to experience a cultural landscape are very few. Davies Orchard is unique and irreplaceable - we urge you, in the strongest possible terms - to restore them and put together a management plan that will keep them as a part of Bowen's future, not just its past.

Yours sincerely,

~,4f5,..-/4-c~-~ Michael Kluckner, President


�

PO Box 78Bowen Island BC V0N 1G0 [email protected]

Mitch Sokalski, Regional Parks Director, 4330 Kingsway,Burnaby BC, V5H 4G8 [email protected],

October 19th, 2016

Dear Mitch,

Please find attached, copies of two resolutions passed by each of the three Bowen Island community groups that have a heritage mandate. Below are listed the contact details of the three groups and the date that they considered the resolutions.

Bowen HeritagePO Box 78, Bowen Island BC V0N [email protected]: Judi GedyeResolutions passed July 6th, 2016

Bowen Island Museum and Archives1014 Miller Rd, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G1, CanadaPhone: [email protected]: Rob ForbesResolutions passed July 13th, 2016

Bowen Island Arts CouncilThe Gallery, Artisan Square,589 Artisan Square, Box 211, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0Phone: 604-947-2454President: Carol CramResolutions passed August 24th, 2016

I am also enclosing copies of letters from Michael Kluckner, President of the Vancouver Historical Society, and Bill Yuen, manager of Heritage Vancouver, expressing support for the retention of the cottages. I have included extracts from Bowen Island's OCP that refer to the cottages, and extracts from the Islands Trust Policy that address the conservation of heritage.

Bowen Heritage acknowledges the challenges facing Metro Vancouver Parks in preserving the Davies Orchard cottages but ask that you work with us and other groups to explore all possible avenues to do so.

Best regards,

Melissa HarrisonChair, Bowen Heritage

E1.1 Attachment 5


Resolution #1

Whereas Bowen Island was the most important day-trip and vacation resort for Vancouver residents in the first half of the twentieth century, a key period for the city's identity formation; and

Whereas the resort era is held dear in Vancouver's collective memory, as well as being central to Bowen Island's sense of identity and heritage; and

Whereas the Davies Orchard Cottages, built by the Union Steamship Company in 1928, represent the only example of a steamship era, holiday cottage precinct that remains intact and accessible in British Columbia; and

Whereas the twelve identical cottages are classic examples of early twentieth century, West Coast vernacular architecture; and

Whereas, heritage values continue to enrich life in the community, and the experience of visitors to Bowen Island, especially visitors to Crippen Regional Park and Snug Cove; and

Whereas, the maintenance, preservation and enhancement of heritage values on Bowen Island is, and should be an important local and regional objective; and

Whereas, the cottages at Davies Orchard are one of the most significant and accessible heritage assets in Metro Vancouver; and

Whereas, experience has shown that the restoration and maintenance of buildings with heritage value on Bowen Island and in Crippen Regional Park is worthwhile and achievable;

Therefore be it resolved that:

Bowen Island Heritage Preservation Association join with other community organizations to advise Metro Vancouver Regional Parks and the Bowen Island Municipality that it is our strongly held view that every available step should be taken to preserve and maintain the Davies Orchard Cottages for future generations.

Resolution #2

Whereas we strongly believe that the Davies Orchard Cottages should be preserved for future generations; and

Whereas a number of the cottages are in need of repair, and without remedial action may be lost; and

Whereas we recognize that Metro Vancouver Regional Parks has a limited budget, and is unsure how to bring these heritage buildings into sustainable use at this time; and

Whereas enjoyment of the heritage and charismatic value of the cottage precinct is not contingent on accessing all of the interiors;

Therefore be it resolved that:

Bowen Island Heritage Preservation Association urge Metro Vancouver Regional Parks to focus on stabilizing and restoring the exterior and structure of the cottages, such that further decline is halted, in order that the cottages may continue to be enjoyed and experienced by park visitors.


From the Bowen Island Official Community Plan Policy 234 Existing cabins in Crippen Regional Park have a heritage value derived from the Union Steamship era. • the cabins should be used for civic, community or arts and crafts studio use;• any efforts to restore and maintain the cabins will be encouraged and supported (cross-

reference: Section 9.1 Island Heritage); • with the agreement of Metro Vancouver, the arts and crafts studio use may include residential

use for the artisan and retail sales of the arts and crafts that are produced; • other cabins may be used for accommodation of a caretaker, a parks groundskeeper and a

limited number of cabins may be used for short-term tourist accommodation and relatedancillary facilities; and

• the heritage design should be retained with any use or renovation of these structures.Policy 398 Existing farms and orchards should be protected, and new farms encouraged, especially to propagate a variety of heritage fruit trees, as a means to enhance rural and historic aspects of the island.Policy 401 The Municipality will continue to work with Metro Vancouver Parks to emphasize the heritage values of Crippen Regional Park in the context of any future parks planning or works.

From the Islands Trust Policy Statement 5.6 Cultural and Natural Heritage24Commitment of Trust Council5.6.1 Trust Council holds that the natural and human heritage of the Trust Area — that is the areas and property of natural, historic, cultural, aesthetic, educational or scientific heritage value25 or character26 — should be identified, preserved, protected and enhanced.Directive Policies5.6.2 Local trust committees and island municipalities shall, in their official community plans and regulatory bylaws, address the identification, protection, preservation and enhancement of local heritage.5.6.3 Local trust committees and island municipalities shall, in their official community plans and regulatory bylaws, address the preservation and protection of the heritage value and character of historic coastal settlement patterns and remains.24 Heritage - a place, feature or event of cultural, biological, archaeological, paleontogical or geological significance.25 Heritage Value - historical, cultural, aesthetic, educational or scientific worth or usefulness of property or an area.26 Heritage Character - the overall effect produced by traits or features which give property or an area a distinctive quality or appearance.


Site Assessment Summary

The site was assessed to identify opportunities and challenges to accomplish the project goals. Key challenges include:

Prime views to the harbor are obscured by structures, parking, and vegetation;

Lack of clearly defined public space and sightlines into the site contributes to underuse of the siteand unsanctioned activities;

Wayfinding is challenging. Entrances to the site are obscured and views into the site are primarilyof parking;

Three metre slope adjacent to ‘Lady Alexandra Promenade’ boardwalk that borders the east edgeof the orchard site impairs physical and visual access to the site;

The entrances and overall appearance of the site imply a private area without public access; and

The condition and use of the cottage buildings are not indicative of public space.

Key opportunities include:

Opportunity to create central flexible public open space and gathering space for regional parkand partner programs and events;

Opportunity to create entry, amenities and site treatment that reinforce public access of the site;

Opportunity to improve circulation, wayfinding and signage;

Opportunity to celebrate the historic use of the site through interpretation, site design andcottage use; and

Opportunity to use orchard plantings as a historical site feature, ecological amenity andeducational opportunity.

E1.1 Attachment 6


Cottage Building Program Analysis

Suitable Use

Not Recommended

Analysis

Bowen Heritage Museum and Office

Bowen Heritage is a volunteer group with a long history ofadvocacy, engagement and service in the park

Bowen Heritage has actively used the two cottages as a basefor public programming, education and heritage initiativesfor over 20 years

Public benefit is provided through events, site tours andvolunteer projects

Opportunity to collaborate with Bowen Heritage on futureinterpretation, stewardship and other collaborative projects(i.e. heritage orchard planting) that are proposed in theConcept Options

Provides enhanced site presenceShort Term Rental

Provides affordable overnight nature experience forregional residents

Generates a modest amount of revenue

Use is in keeping with historical use of cottages andlandscape as a regional destination to connect with nature

Provides public, nonexclusive use of the cottagesPublic bookable facility

Strong interest for access to bookable use of cottagebuildings was expressed during public engagement session

Public, nonexclusive, use of the cottages

Could support park programs, interpretation

Could support partner programs and public bookings (Applefest, small weddings/family gatherings)

Nature House

Poor location - adjacent to Snug Cove, away from mainnatural features in the park

Size and layout not appropriate for nature house.

No desire for this amenity, in this location, expressed inpublic engagement

Storage Relative high cost for a small storage facility.

Low public benefit

No requirement for Metro Vancouver equipment storage

No desire for this amenity expressed in public engagementLandscape display

Relative high cost for building without public access or use

No desire for this amenity expressed in public engagement

Some concerns with site safety and after hours use

Food Service

No desire for this amenity expressed in public engagement

Private restaurants are located nearby

E1.1 Attachment 7


Davies Orchard Cottage Condition Assessment

The following is a condition assessment of the Davies Orchard cottages outlining scope of restoration options and cost. Four cottages have previously been restored and are in relatively good condition.

Six cottages are in poor condition and would require major upgrades/rebuilding to support public access. The buildings were constructed in the 1920’s before modern building code. Structural support in the crawl space and the ceiling structure in attic areas are required for Building Permits and Code Compliance. The design and extent of this work will have to be determined by local authorities and a structural engineer. Mold was observed in some of the cottages due to leaking rainwater. Remediation work would be required to remove mold in order to meet Building Code and Worksafe BC requirements.

Condition and Costs Summary

Cottage No.

Condition From Condition Assessment:

Cost of Repair and Upgrade (Incl. 25% Design,

Project Management and contingency) )

8 Poor damp mouldy. $203,000 $254,000

9 Damp reasonable. $135,000 $169,000

11 Poor. $202,000 $253,000

12 Poor but dry. $202,000 $253,000

14 Dry reasonable. $155,000 $194,000

17 Poor. $160,000 $200,000

10 Museum. Good. $60,000 $75,000

18 Term stay rental. Good. $35,000 $44,000

19 Term stay rental. Good. $48,000 $60,000

20 Bowen Heritage. Good. $55,000 $69,000

Total $1,255,000 $1,571,000

E1.1 Attachment 8


COTTAGE #8 - EAST VIEW


Unrestored Cottages

Poor condition, damp and mouldy:

• Install new concrete footings, support posts withbrackets, cross bracing

• Replace any rotten siding and re-paint all exteriorsurfaces

• Replace the roofing, install gutters and downpipes• Strip out and replace any insulation, wall finishes,

wiring• Replace the collapsed roof support beam be-

tween the old porch and the main• area of the cottage, upgrade the ceiling structure• Re-wire the cottage, install new insulation, vapour

barrier and wall / ceiling• finishes• Re-finish the window frames and replace any bro-

ken or missing glazing• Re-finish or replace the flooring• Remove or re-build the addition at the northwest

corner

Vacant, damp, reasonable condition:

• Foundation has been redone, install brackets atsupport posts

• Exterior painting required• Re-build front porch, railing and stairs• Replace roofing, install gutters and downpipes• Upgrade the ceiling structure• Strip out and replace any insulation, wall finishes,

wiring,• Re-finish the window frames and replace any

broken

COST TO UPGRADE- $203,000



COTTAGE #11- EAST VIEW

Poor condition:

• Replace the roofing, gutters and downpipes• Replace any rotten siding, re-paint siding and

re-finish windows• Remove any additions to the cottage• Install new footings and post supports• Upgrade the support for the ceiling structure• Strip out and replace any insulation, wall

finishes, wiring,• Attic was inaccessible. Inspect and make neces-

sary upgrades


COTTAGE #12- EAST VIEW

Used for storage, poor condition but dry:

• Replace the roofing, gutters and downpipes• Install new footings and post supports• Remove the porch at the northeast corner• Replace any rotten wood siding and re-finish the

windows. Re-paint the exterior.• Repair or remove the west addition• Re-wire the cottage, install new insulation, vapour

barrier and wall / ceiling finishes• Upgrade the ceiling structure• Address the rodent problem in the attic.• Provide improved ventilation in the attic




Poor condition, rat infestation:• Replace the roofing, gutters and downpipes• Replace any rotten siding• Replace front porch guardrail• Remove or re-build the southwest porch• Install new concrete footings, support posts

with brackets, cross bracing• Exterminate any rats from the cottage and

cleanup any feces and urine.• Remove or replace the plumbing and pro-

pane piping• Upgrade the ceiling structure which has

been vaulted in the past

COST TO UPGRADE-$160,000


Used for storage, dry, reasonable condition:• Replace the roofing, gutters and downpipes• Replace any missing or rotten siding.• Remove or repair the addition at the rear of the

cottage• Has concrete perimeter foundation-install brack-

ets to connect the support posts• to the footings and support beams• Re-build the entire front porch and stairs• Remove any mould found on the interior• Replace the electrical system• Remove or re-build the rear addition• Re-finish the windows and replace any broken or

missing glazing



Cottage #10- East View

Restored Cottages

Museum use, good condition:• Support posts and footings are adequate. Install

top and bottom brackets on the posts.• Present leak at chimney. Replacement of roofing

and chimney work is required.• Replace porch guardrail (too low and some rot)• Upgrade support for ceiling in attic.



Short term rental- contract agreement, good condition):• Some maintenance required.• Remove moss from roof• Paint wood siding• Repair porch stairs and railing

COST TO UPGRADE-$35,000



Bowen Heritage, good condition:• Metal shims found under shingles, near term roof-

ing replacement• Attach support cable to mast for hydro service• Upgrade the porch guardrail to 36 inch height.


Cottage #19- Northeast View

Short term rental- contract agreement, good condition:• Remove moss from roof. Near term replace-

ment of shingles.• Install new interior concrete footings, support

posts with brackets, cross bracing• Replace missing chimney flashings.• Replace porch guardrail.



E1.1 Attachment 9CONCEPT -1 OPEN SPACE FOCUSED PLAN

ORCHARD LANE ENTRY PLANTING orchard entry marked

with fru_lt trees

MVRP KIOSK----

EXISTWG UPGRADED CDTIAGE Bowen Heritage Office

PARKING-----relocate to the north edge.

including aReglonal Park and Partner Learnlng Zone.

EXISTWG UPGRADED COTIAGE ShOrt Term Rental

INTERPRETIVUEATURE-----highlighting .the gardens.

DEMONSTRATION GAROENS------retocate to prominent position.

EXISTWG SIGNAGf-----

EXISTING UPGRADED COTlAGE Short Term Rental

INTERPRETIVE FEATURE---

on the nortl\ side of Trunk Road highllght Davies Orchard entry

0' • Ii) ..,.w ___ I ' ·' I

..___._... ___ - ~~B,2._U~~!.__ __..

TRUNK ROAD

,,--- - FENCWG split rail fencing along north edge of site.

_ .........,,..,.. PARKDt; with new access road. along the north edge of the site.

----- - INTERPRETIVECOITAGE FEATURES mark .cottage footprints.

CENTRAL LAWN AREA open space for ftexible use and park programming events, highlighting marine views.

~----~~--..:...-..,,..'...i::.._- INTERPRETIVECOTIAGE FEATURES

llPllWIHlllTIT-111111 ~INTERPRETIVE TRAii.

creates a looped walking path through an area restored with native plantings.

mark the cottage footprints .

._--------:-- -.,.,....;--- EXISTWG PUBLIC ART

marks the cottage footp1int.

relocate Fraser's sculpture.

remove invasive plant species from ste:eP. slope, and replant with native species. Prune trees to clear vlews.

INTERPRETIVE C01JAGE FEATURE --- marks cottage footprint.

Bectrtcal service provided in lhi!> location, to support park programs and public events.

ORCHARD grid of fruit trees frames the open space.


CONCEPT -2 HERITAGE FOCUSED PLAN

WAYFINDING POSlS on both sides of Trunk Road, to highlight the park entry.

-..------ ----- .-- ... -------orchard entry marked

wilh fruit trees

MVRPKIOSK

EXISTING UPGRADED COTTAGES Bowen He(itage Office.

Short Term Rental ---":::::::~=-+.....:::.-!.

PICNIC AREA framed by fruit trees, this central gathering place provides an --~ outdoor room for park programs.

EXISTINGSIGNAGE - ---:-- ---==--relocate and upgrade.

AOOIDIOO.mllmtva Bookable Public Facility

Short Term Rental

creates a looped walking path through an area restored with native plantings.

INTERPRETIVE FEATURE lfTERPRETIVE COTTAGE FEATURE high lighting the riparian area. marks cottage footprint.

TRUNK ROAD

---FEM:lllJ split rail fencing along north edge of slte.

Booka.ble Public Facility

_..;.--=~ NATURE OLT.OVEllYPROORAMAREA including a Regional Park and Partner Learning Zone.

Museum

CENTRAL LAWN AREA open space for flexible use anq !)ark programming events. highlfght ing marine views.

------- IHERPRETIVECDTTAGE FEATURE marks the cottage footprint.

----------EXISTING PUBLIC ART

~ ~:~a::DF;;;:~culpture.

gravel wheel strips provide maintenance vehicle access.

remove invasive plant species from steep slope, and replant with native species. Prune trees to clear views.

PATH REAlllNED for improved access and clear sightlines into the park.

lmRPRETIVE COTTAGE FEATURE marks the cottage footprint. Elect rical service provided in this locat ion. to support park programs and public event s.

PUMP STATION

ORCHARD grid of fruit t rees frames the open space.


Order of Magnitude Cost Estimate

Concept Option 1 Concept Options 2

Site Preparation $109,000 $109,000

Maintenance Upgrades to four currently used cottages $248,000 $248,000

Upgrade of two cottages in poor condition $447,000

Removal of cottages and salvage/reuse of materials $113,000 $75,000

Trails, paths, roads and parking $170,000 $168,000

Interpretive Features $68,000 $68,000

Nature experience / programming space $125,000 $125,000

Servicing allowance ( sewer, water, electricity) 100,000

TOTAL * $833,000 $1,340,000

*Note - costs include and allowance for planning and design, project administration, permits, andcontingency (25%).

E1.1 Attachment 10


To: Regional Parks Committee From: Craig Sobering, Division Manager (Acting), Planning and Engineering Services, Regional Parks Date: March 7, 2017 Meeting Date: April 26, 2017 Subject: Metro Vancouver Regional Parks 2016 Annual Visitor Use and Program Statistics RECOMMENDATION That the MVRD Board receive for information the report dated March 7, 2017, titled “Metro Vancouver Regional Parks 2016 Annual Visitor Use and Program Statistics”. PURPOSE To provide the MVRD Board with annual statistics for Regional Parks’ visitor use, visitor services and volunteering in 2016, and information related to visitor use trends. BACKGROUND A report is provided annually to the Regional Parks Committee and MVRD Board to describe public use of Metro Vancouver’s regional parks. In addition to annual visitation estimates, the report includes information on volunteering activities and visitor services’ accomplishments. The full summary for 2016 statistics is contained in the Attachment titled Metro Vancouver Regional Parks Visits, Visitor Services and Volunteering by the Numbers, 2016. Metro Vancouver Regional Parks has a well‐developed system for collecting data on park use and activities. This data illustrates overall program performance, demand for specific programs and facilities and level of interest in regional parks. The data assists in the planning and allocation of resources. Three of the four Regional Parks annual work plan performance indicators are derived from this data: 1. Annual Visits – the total number of annual visits provides baseline information on facility

demands, resource management and user trends; 2. Annual Participants in Programing (including special events, recreation, interpretive and school

programs) – the number of participants in programs offered serves as an indicator of interest in environmental education, citizen engagement and outreach; and

3. Annual Volunteer Hours (for park associations, stewardship, educational programs and events) – measuring year over year the amount of volunteer hours spent in regional parks assists in park planning, program development, and staff resource allocations. The fourth indicator is specific to protection of sensitive ecosystems in regional parks. This indicator is not part of the Visits, Visitor Services and Volunteering, 2016 report.

Section E 1.2

20994124


Metro Vancouver Regional Parks 2016 Annual Visitor Use and Program Statistics Regional Parks Committee Meeting Date: April 26, 2017

Page 2 of 3

REGIONAL PARKS 2016 VISITOR STATISTICS The following points highlight key 2016 Regional Parks statistics from the Park Visitor, Visitor Services and Volunteering programs. Park Visits In 2016, Metro Vancouver observed the first ever decrease in visitation to regional parks. After three years of very high annual visitation, a two percent (2%) decrease was observed. This decrease is believed to be associated with wetter annual weather combined with a sharp decrease in visitation to Capilano River Regional Park (‐35%) due to access impediments and a relatively poor fishing season. Highlights are: • 11.1 million visits in 2016 resulting in a slight two percent decrease (‐2%) from 2015 visitation • Despite this observed dip, the long term growth trend remains strong at 3.8%. • Five regional parks and two regional greenways recorded a record number of visits. This includes

Burnaby Lake, Brae Island, Iona Beach, Lynn Headwaters, Tynehead Regional Parks, and Delta South‐Surrey, Pitt River Regional Greenways.

• Surrey Bend Regional Park recorded 83,000 visitors in its first partial year of operation. Visitor Services • 1006 visitor services programs and events delivered with 57,585 attendees • 1,000 day use bookings (e.g., building & picnic shelter bookings) and 104,459 recorded attendees

Volunteering • 26,387 volunteer hours recorded system wide for 2016 • 16,153 volunteer hours contributed during 584 park association sponsored events which includes

10,153 volunteer hours contributed during 168 stewardship events • 8,049 volunteer hours contributed during 151 Metro Vancouver stewardship events • 2,185 volunteer hours contributed to visitor services programs ALTERNATIVES This report is presented for information. No alternatives are presented. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS There are no financial implications associated with this report. The collection of information for the annual report and production of the report itself are included each year in the approved Regional Parks budget. SUMMARY / CONCLUSION This report transmits the report titled Metro Vancouver Regional Parks Visits, Visitor Services and Volunteering by the Numbers, 2016 to the Regional Parks Committee and MVRD Board. It provides an overview of Regional Parks’ 2016 Regional Parks’ visitor use, volunteer, stewardship and visitor services data. The data is used to communicate the benefits of the regional parks system to the MVRD Board and the public, to support ongoing park planning, capital planning, facility development, and other program and management activities. This information allows staff to monitor the success


Metro Vancouver Regional Parks 2016 Annual Visitor Use and Program Statistics Regional Parks Committee Meeting Date: April 26, 2017

Page 3 of 3

of its park and program offerings and to set the regional parks performance indicators targets This information has been made available to the public in the past and the report will be posted on the Metro Vancouver website. Attachment: Metro Vancouver Regional Parks Visits, Visitor Services and Volunteering by the

Numbers, 2016 (orbit # 21431668)


SERVICES AND SOLUTIONS FOR A LIVABLE REGION

Visits, Visitor Services & Volunteering by the Numbers – 2016

REGIONAL PARKS

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF REGIONAL PARKS

Sml_MV/RPStand alone w/ year

Pin

MV/RPStand alone w/o year

MV/RP Stand alone w/year

Sml_RP w/yearUse in conjuction with

MV Branding

RP w/o yearUse in conjuction with

MV Branding

RP w/year Use in conjuction with

MV Branding

Attachment

21431668


2 | VISITS, VISITOR SERVICES & VOLUNTEERING BY THE NUMBERS – 2016Metro Vancouver Regional District - Parks - 43

VISITS, VISITOR SERVICES & VOLUNTEERING BY THE NUMBERS – 2016 | 3

ContentsPark Visits……………………………………………………… ............................... 5

Visits by Regional Park ................................................................................................. 6Monthly Visits ................................................................................................................ 7Annual Trends ............................................................................................................... 7

Visitor Services……………………………………………… ................................. 5Education Programs and Events ................................................................................. 6Attendance by Program Type ...................................................................................... 7Regional Park Day Use Bookings ................................................................................ 8Group Camping Facilities ............................................................................................ 9Individual Camping Facilities ...................................................................................... 9Picnic Shelters ............................................................................................................. 10

Buildings ...................................................................................................................... 10

Volunteering……………………………………………… ..................11Park Association Volunteer Hours ............................................................................. 11Stewardship Activities ................................................................................................ 12

Appendices………………………………………………......................................13Appendix A: Park Visit Data ..............................................................................13Park Visit Data ............................................................................................................. 13Visits by Month ........................................................................................................... 14Seasonal Patterns ....................................................................................................... 14Seasonal Trimester ..................................................................................................... 14Annual Weather .......................................................................................................... 15

Appendix B: Visitor Services Data ....................................................................17Special Events & Contracted Programs .................................................................... 17Education Programs and Event Summary ................................................................ 18

Appendix C: Volunteering Data ........................................................................23Park Association Volunteering Activities .................................................................. 23Park Association Volunteer Hours ............................................................................. 25NRM Stewardship Activities....................................................................................... 25Volunteer Hours Summary ......................................................................................... 25Park Partners and Licensees ...................................................................................... 26

Appendix D: Other DataVolunteer Stewardship Metrics .................................................................................. 27Stewardship Technician Events ................................................................................. 28Beachkeepers Volunteers .......................................................................................... 30Regional Parks Official Names .................................................................................. 31



2016 VISITS BY REGIONAL PARKPARK 2016 VISITS % SHIFT

FROM 2015ANNUAL RECORD

Aldergrove 419,000 -2%

Barnston Island 16,000 -6%

Belcarra 698,000 5%

Boundary Bay 1,064,000 -1%

Brae Island 298,000 12% *Brunette Fraser Greenway 201,000 -2%

Burnaby Lake 393,000 2% *Campbell Valley 620,000 -6%

Capilano River 721,000 -35%

Colony Farm 260,000 0%

Crippen 288,000 3%

Deas Island 328,000 3%

Delta South Surrey Greenway 92,000 12% *Derby Reach 834,000 -6%

Glen Valley 107,000 -7%

Iona Beach 313,000 20% *Kanaka Creek 402,000 12%

Lynn Headwaters 372,000 12% *Matsqui Trail 502,000 -5%

Minnekhada 158,000 9%

Pacific Spirit 2,225,000 -4%

Pitt River Greenway 158,000 9% *Seymour River Greenway 22,000 -4%

Surrey Bend 83,000 - *Tynehead 496,000 6% *TOTAL 11,074,000 -2%

BackgroundMetro Vancouver estimates park visits at 21 Regional Parks and 4 Greenways daily. Collection occurs at the entrances to parks using counters installed on roads and trails. Counter data is reviewed frequently by staff. Following the review process a final visitation estimate is produced for each park.

Possible Reasons for Declines• Access to parts of Capilano River

Regional Park severely restrictedby construction in 2016

• Previous pattern of very warm anddry summers ended with wetterweather in the early summer andfall of 2016

Possible Reasons for Increases• Continued local population growth

• Increasingly accurate countingtechniques

Over 470,000 visitors used Regional Greenways during 2016

The spring and fall trimesters are consistently attracting over 55% of annual visitation.

PARK VISITS

11.1 MILLION

PARK VISITS 2016

8REGIONAL PARKS &

GREENWAYS RECEIVEDRECORD NUMBER OF VISITS

-2%SLIGHT DECLINE IN

PUBLIC USE

2014 2015 2016


6 | VISITS, VISITOR SERVICES & VOLUNTEERING BY THE NUMBERS – 2016

2016 MONTHLY VISITS PAGE 3

1,600,000

1,400,000

1,200,000

1,000,000

800,000

600,000

400,000

200,000

0

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2016

2015

5 yr avg

Record

2016 MONTHLY VISITS

ANNUAL TRENDS

ANNUAL TRENDS PAGE 3

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

2,000,000

0

4,000,000

6,000,000

8,000,000

10,000,000

12,000,000

Park visits(average growthrate 3.8%)

Regionalpopulation (average growthrate 1.6%)

Total

precipitation was up 14%

41 more rainydays this yearthan in 2015

12% less sunshine in 2016

• Average temperature remained consistent at 11.2 degrees (0.6 degrees over normal)

• A very wet year, 2016 exceeded historic norms in days with precipitation and total precipitation

• Compared to 2015, 270 less hours of sunshine was received regionally last year



VISITOR SERVICES

57,585VISITOR SERVICES

PROGRAM ATTENDEES

1,006VISITOR SERVICES

PROGRAMS

2016 VISITOR SERVICES – INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

PROGRAM TYPE NUMBER OFPROGRAMS ATTENDANCE VOLUNTEER

INSTANCESVOLUNTEER

HOURS

Beachkeepers 9 1,004 127 771

Contracted Programs (Baby & Me/Tiny Trekkers) 120 2,210 - -

External Community Events (interpretive contacts) 23 7,327 8 24

Interpretive Events 35 18,792 149 590

Openings-Dedications (Surrey Bend) 1 1,188 5 20

Park Association Events 8 1,514 24 163

Public Programs 53 916 9 33

Private Group 7 140 - -

Roving (interpretive contacts) 20 1,300 6 13

School Group & Community Groups 614 13,459 - -

Professional Development Workshops 17 223 - -

Visitors Centre/Nature House 99 9,512 164 572

TOTAL 1,006 57,585 492 2,185

ATTENDANCE BY PROGRAM TYPE

ATTENDANCE BY PROGRAM TYPE

TOTAL ATTENDEES

Professional Development

Public Programs

Beachkeepers

Openings – Dedications

Park Association Events

Contracted Programs (Baby & Me/Tiny Trekkers)

External Community Events (interpretive contracts)

Visitors Centre/Nature House

School Group & Community Groups

Interpretive Events

0 2,000 4,000 6,000 8,000 10,000 12,000 14,000 16,000 18,000 20,000

2016

2015

Visitor Services – Education Programs and Events

In 2016 Metro Vancouver staff delivered interpretive programs and special events in 23 regional parks to school children, adults and families. See Appendix B for details.



REGIONAL PARK DAY USE BOOKINGS

REGIONAL PARK BOOKINGS ATTENDEES

Aldergrove 58 8,250

Belcarra 121 11,081

Bounday Bay 217 15,147

Brae Island 8 985

Brunette-Fraser Greenway 5 420

Burnaby Lake 13 4,629

Campbell Valley 144 12,777

Capilano River 33 5,062

Colony Farm 3 263

Crippen 59 5,912

Deas Island 81 5,975

Derby Reach 90 4,459

Iona Beach 5 505

Kanaka Creek 4 455

Lynn Headwaters 12 1,539

Matsqui Trail 5 255

Minnekhada 72 3,228

Pacific Spirit 36 18,727

Pitt River Greenway 5 1,150

Surrey Bend 24 1,470

Tynehead 5 2,170

TOTAL 1,000 104,459

Note: Does not include group or individual camping numbers.

Day Use Bookings

Metro Vancouver offers short term rental of some buildings, structures, and open spaces within regional parks and greenways to the public for a modest fee.

1,000day use facility & picnic shelter bookings



Overnight Stays Metro Vancouver provides overnight camping accommodation to guests in regional parks.

Three types of camping are offered – rustic group, residential group and individual.

Group Camping provides rustic open air or residential camping opportunities to groups of varying sizes.

Individual Camping provides self-supported open air camping opportunities to individuals and families in campgrounds or on a special permit basis.

GROUP CAMPING FACILITIES

PARK CAMP BOOKINGS ATTENDEES

Aldergrove* Camp Elkgrove 46 1,316

Belcarra* Camp Sasamat 78 2,071

Brae Island ^ Group Shelter 61 5,490

Campbell Valley Camp Coyote 57 1,562

Capilano River Camp Capilano 139 4,768

Deas Island Muskrat Meadows 55 1,755

Tynehead Raven's Nest 52 1,201

TOTAL 488 18,163

* leased facility by non-profit society^ private operator

INDIVIDUAL CAMPING FACILITIES

REGIONAL PARK FACILITY NIGHTS ATTENDEES

Brae Island^ Fort Camping 41,346 119,586

Derby Reach Edgewater Bar 6,475 17,102

Selected Parks (BUR, PAC, WID)

Special Use Permits

51 985

TOTAL 47,872 137,673

^ private operator



Picnic Shelters

Metro Vancouver rents to the public on a day use basis. The picnic shelters are located in eight regional parks.

PICNIC SHELTERSPARK FACILITY BOOKINGS ATTENDEES

Aldergrove Blacktail 29 2,990

Belcarra Two Shelters 78 6,900

Boundary Bay Cattail & Sandpiper

105 5,681

Campbell valley Old Orchard 48 3,742

Crippen Three Shelters 13 545

Deas Island One Shelter 60 4,310

Derby Reach Marpole 83 3,729

Surrey Bend Three Shelters 23 1,430

TOTAL 439 29,327

BUILDINGSPARK FACILITY BOOKINGS ATTENDEES

Boundary Bay Cammidge House

75 3,056

Deas Island Inverholme 17 520

Lynn Headwaters BC Mills House 7 124

Minnekhada Lodge 72 3,228

TOTAL 171 6,928

439 groups with

29,327guests enjoyed group picnics



VOLUNTEERING

26,387VOLUNTEER HOURS

54%OF STEWARDSHIP WORK IS INVASIVE PLANT REMOVAL

AND 20% IS NATIVE PLANTING

3,919VOLUNTEER INSTANCES

AT 584 PARK ASSOCIATION SPONSORED ACTIVITIES

2016 PARK ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEER HRS

– 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000 10,000

Education Program

Fundraising

Web/Materials Development

Outreach

Projects*

Event

Other

Board Meeting

Stewardship

2016

2015

16,153 2016 Total Park Association

Volunteer Hours

2016 PARK ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEER HOURS

Background

Through its stewardship, partnership and visitor services programs, Metro Vancouver is committed to engaging community partners and volunteers in supporting, sustaining and protecting regional parks.

Volunteers contribute to the delivery of a range of programs and activities in regional parks.

See Appendix C for details by park.

Park Associations

Eight Park Associations (PA) form the foundation of Metro Vancouver’s Partnership Program. Park Association volunteers facilitate stewardship, education activities and events in regional parks.

Volunteer Instance

When one person volunteers once at an event or program.

* Projects are one-off contributions to special tasks such as boardwalk or viewing platform construction, etc.



TYPES OF STEWARDSHIP ACTIVITIES

Invasive Plant Removal

Native Planting

Habitat Maintenance

Monitoring

Other (see comments)

Bioengineering Activities*

Bird/Bat/Owl Homes

168 of these include Park Association involvement

* Bioengineering is a discipline which combines the sciences of biology and ecology with engineering technologies to stabilize eroding streambanks, shorelines or upland areas.

n= 31954%

11%20%

6%

5%

2% 2%

TYPES OF STEWARDSHIP ACTIVITIES

Stewardship

Stewardship is the most popular of Metro Vancouver’s volunteer activities. These programs are supported by Metro Vancouver staff, by Park Associations and other park partner groups.

18,202 Stewardship

Volunteer Hours

5,612Stewardship

Volunteer Instances



APPENDIX A: PARK VISIT DATA 2016

PARK 2016 2015

% SHIFT 2016-2015

COMMENTS

Aldergrove 419,000 428,000 -2% Weather related decreases

Barnston Island 16,000 17,000 -6% Weather related decreases

Belcarra 699,000 668,000 5% Growth in shoulder seasons over 2015; lower overall peak season, but with more heavily peaked use, in August

Boundary Bay 1,064,000 1,075,000 -1% Centennial Beach parking lot is full in the summer resulting in main gate closures

Brae Island 299,000 266,000 12% Increases at both entrances and a record for bookings at Fort Camping

Brunette Fraser Greenway

201,000 206,000 -2% Reductions in Burnaby sections as a result of closures and construction along greenway; possibly weather-related

Burnaby Lake 393,000 385,000 2% Increases at most entrances; peak use in April (may be running-related)

Campbell Valley 621,000 659,000 -6% Weather related decreases

Capilano River 721,000 1,116,000 -35% Multiple GVWD projects in various locations resulting in reduced Cleveland Dam Area Parking and Capilano Rd closure to the Fish Hatchery Parking Lot

Colony Farm 260,000 259,000 0% GVWD construction near entrance may have reduced use

Crippen 289,000 281,000 3% Increased popularity in Bowen Island as a day trip destination may have contributed to an increase in park visitation

Deas Island 328,000 319,000 3% Pile driving for the Massey Bridge project may have interrupted visitation in May and June

Delta South Surrey Greenway

92,000 82,000 12% Increased popularity by locals

Derby Reach 834,000 887,000 -6% A number of weather related closures during December

Glen Valley 107,000 115,000 -7% Visitor use is highly correlated to the fishing season, which had low returns in 2016. Weather related decreases may have also been a factor in the decline

Iona Beach 313,000 261,000 20% Increased cycling visits

Kanaka Creek 403,000 360,000 12% Increases due to better counting; the installation of new counters along the Kanaka Parkway and in the Grant Hill area

Lynn Headwaters 373,000 333,000 12% Increased visitation year round. 2016 first time for parking control at Lynn Headwaters due to volume. Visitors are increasingly using the Baden Powell trail to access the park. Parking closed Dec 1st

Matsqui Trail 502,000 526,000 -5% Weather related decreases

Minnekhada 158,000 145,000 9% No bear closures; rapidly growing nearby neighbourhood

Pacific Spirit 2,225,000 2,320,000 -4% Overall decrease of over 145, 000 visitors entering the park by Trail 6, possibly due to weather

Pitt River Greenway 158,000 145,000 9% Increase due to new commercial and residential developments near the airport and Osprey Village

Seymour River Greenway 22,000 23,000 -4% Fewer people travelling north of Capilano University parking counter

Surrey Bend 84,000 7,000 - New Regional Park and facilities. 2016 is the first year of counting at Surrey Bend. April to year end

Tynehead 496,000 467,000 6% Increases at most entrances, likely due to growing neighbourhoods; use peaked in May

TOTAL 11,074,000 11,349,000 -2%



REGIONAL PARK VISITS BY MONTH

MONTH 2016 2015 5 YEAR AVERAGE

January 677,000 707,000 607,000

February 692,000 703,000 616,000

March 813,000 858,000 773,000

April 1,069,000 1,014,000 951,000

May 1,140,000 1,235,000 1,085,000

June 1,084,000 1,224,000 1,083,000

July 1,303,000 1,295,000 1,297,000

August 1,401,000 1,252,000 1,276,000

September 1,013,000 1,059,000 1,016,000

October 819,000 832,000 806,000

November 621,000 636,000 608,000

December 443,000 536,000 498,000

TOTAL 11,074,000 11,350,000 10,614,000

REGIONAL PARK VISITS - SEASONAL PATTERNS

2016 2015 1995

Spring 3,251,000 3,282,000 1,301,000

Summer 4,928,000 5,006,000 2,518,000

Fall 2,896,000 3,063,000 1,343,000

TOTAL 11,074,000 11,350,000 5,162,000

2016 2015 1995

Spring trimester (JAN-APR) 29% 29% 25%

Summer trimester (MAY-AUG) 45% 44% 49%

Fall trimester (SEP-DEC) 26% 27% 26%

100% 100% 100%

2016 REG PARK VISITS BY SEASONAL TRIMESTER

0.0% 10.0% 20.0% 30.0% 40.0% 50.0% 60.0% 70.0% 80.0% 90.0% 100.0%

Spring trimester (Jan-Apr) Summer trimester (May-Aug) Fall trimester (Sep-Dec)

2016

2015

1995

29%

29%

25%

45%

44%

49%

26%

27%

26%

REGIONAL PARK VISITS BY SEASONAL TRIMESTER



ANNUAL WEATHER

TOTAL HOURS OF SUNSHINE

TOTAL HOURS OF SUNSHINE

2016

2015

Avg

0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500

DAYS WITH PRECIPITATION

DAYS WITH PRECIPITATION

2016

2015

Avg

Wet

Dry

0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400

TOTAL PRECIPITATION APPENDIX A PK VISIT DATA

2016 2015 15 yr avg

1500

1000

500

0Prec

ipita

tion

(mm

)

TOTAL PRECIPITATION



APPENDIX B: VISITOR SERVICES DATA 2016

2016 SPECIAL EVENTS & CONTRACTED PROGRAMS PARK EVENT ATTENDANCE VOLUNTEER

INSTANCESVOLUNTEER

HOURS

Various Parks Canada's Parks Day (11 park sites) 1,527 45 187

Various Parks Celebrating Partners 170 - -

Capilano River Coho Walk 795 9 47

Various Parks Baby and Me 920 - -

Various Parks Tiny Trekkers 1,290 - -

Campbell Valley Country Celebration 4,499 27 116

Simon Fraser University Fall Parksfest 212 3 24

Aldergrove Meteor Shower Watch 1,400 6 36

Capilano River Music in the Park 1,507 1 5

Pacific Spirit Night Quest 2,025 36 130

Deas Island Starry Night 1,100 5 20

TOTAL 15,445 132 565



EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND EVENT SUMMARY BY REGIONAL PARK

REGIONAL PARK PROGRAM TYPE NUMBER OF

PROGRAMSATTENDANCE VOLUNTEER

INSTANCESVOLUNTEER

HOURS

Aldergrove Community Group 2 29 - - Interpretive Event 2 1,890 17 82 Park Association Event 1 150 - -

Pre-Kindergarten 1 12 - - Private Group 1 14 - -

Roving (interpretive contacts) 1 280 - -

School Group 9 132 - -

SUB-TOTAL 17 2,507 17 82

Belcarra Beachkeepers 9 1,004 - -

Community Group 4 62 - - Interpretive Event 2 728 12 36 Pre-Kindergarten 4 85 - - Private Group 2 48 - - Public Program 2 109 - - Roving (interpretive contacts) 1 - - - School Group 66 1,367 - - SUB-TOTAL 90 3,403 12 36

Boundary Bay Community Groups 7 178 - - Interpretive Event 7 1,580 - -

Park Association Event 2 103 - - Roving (interpretive contacts) 3 288 5 12


SUB-TOTAL 44 2,656 5 12 Brae Island Professional Development Workshops 1 6 - -

SUB-TOTAL 1 6 - -

Brunette Fraser Greenway


SUB-TOTAL 1 15 - -

Burnaby Lake Community Groups 22 438 - - Interpretive Event 7 1,757 2 - Pre-Kindergarten 6 73 - - Public Program 15 232 - - Roving (interpretive contacts) 3 15 - -

School Group 74 1,164 - - Visitors Centre 38 4,992 - -

SUB-TOTAL 165 8,671 2 -





INSTANCESVOLUNTEER

HOURS

Burns Bog External Community Events (interpretive contacts)

1 25 - -

SUB-TOTAL 1 25 - -

Campbell Valley

Community Groups 3 42 - -

Interpretive Event 5 5,953 56 219

Pre-Kindergarten 2 24 - -

Public Program 5 92 7 24

School Group 75 1,391 - -


Visitors Centre 38 2,758 107 334

SUB-TOTAL 131 10,303 170 577

Capilano River

Community Groups 17 260 - -

Interpretive Event 3 2,433 10 52 Pre-Kindergarten 2 31 - -

Public Program 1 14 - -


SUB-TOTAL 64 3,638 10 52

Colony Farm Community Groups 10 132 - -



SUB-TOTAL 21 319 - -

Crippen External Community Events (interpretive contacts)

2 425 5 15

SUB-TOTAL 2 425 5 15

Deas Island Community Groups 2 30 - - Interpretive Event 2 1,336 6 23





SUB-TOTAL 24 1,644 6 23

EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND EVENT SUMMARY BY REGIONAL PARK – CONTINUED





INSTANCESVOLUNTEER

HOURS

Derby Reach Community Groups 2 11 - - Interpretive Event 2 231 5 16

Park Association Event 1 480 5 15 Public Program 2 55 - -

School Group 12 341 - - Professional Development Workshops 4 72 - -

SUB-TOTAL 23 1,190 10 31 Glenn Valley Public Program 2 35 1 3

SUB-TOTAL 2 35 1 3 Iona Beach Pre-Kindergarten 2 24 - -


SUB-TOTAL 6 72 - -

Kanaka Creek Community Groups 3 42 - -

Interpretive Event 1 458 1 4

Park Association Event 2 509 11 55 Public Program 1 7 - -

Roving (interpretive contacts) 3 382 1 1


SUB-TOTAL 27 1,697 13 60

Lynn Headwaters

Park Association Event 1 265 8 108 Public Program 1 17 1 6


Visitors Centre 23 1,762 57 238

SUB-TOTAL 26 2,129 66 352

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND EVENT SUMMARY BY REGIONAL PARK – CONTINUED


VISITS, VISITOR SERVICES & VOLUNTEERING BY THE NUMBERS – 2016 | 21VISITS, VISITOR SERVICES & VOLUNTEERING BY THE NUMBERS – 2016 | 21




INSTANCESVOLUNTEER

HOURS

Matsqui Trail Public Program 2 35 - -

SUB-TOTAL 2 35 - - Minnekhada Community Groups 4 82 - -





SUB-TOTAL 76 1,259 - -

Pacific Spirit Community Groups 40 439 - -

Interpretive Event 2 2,129 40 158

Park Association Event 1 7 - -


Public Group 3 - - -



School Group 91 1,843 - -


SUB-TOTAL 152 4,633 40 158

Pitt River Greenway


SUB-TOTAL 1 27 - -

Surrey Bend Interpretive Event 2 297 - -

Openings-Dedications 1 1,188 5 20



SUB-TOTAL 5 1,558 5 20





INSTANCESVOLUNTEER

HOURS

Tynehead Community Groups 1 23 - -

External Community Events (interpretive contacts) 1 917 - -




SUB-TOTAL 19 1,212 - -

External to Regional Parks



SUB-TOTAL 25 82 3 9

SYSTEM TOTAL Beachkeepers 9 1,004 127 771

Community Groups 107 1,636 - -


Interpretive Events 35 18,792 149 590

Openings-Dedications 1 1,188 5 20

Park Association Events 8 1,514 24 163



Public Programs 53 916 9 33

Roving (interpretive contacts) 20 1,300 6 13

School Groups 507 11,823 - -


Visitors Centre / Nature House 99 9,512 164 572

TOTAL 911 55,729 492 2,185




APPENDIX C: VOLUNTEERING DATA 2016

PARK ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEERING ACTIVITIES METRICS

PARK ASSOCIATION (PA) ACTIVITY TYPE NO.

ACTIVITIES

NO. VOLUNTEER INSTANCES

TOTAL VOLUNTEER

HOURS

NO. PUBLIC ATTENDEES

Boundary Bay PA Board Meeting 13 108 249 -

Event 10 86 322 819

Fundraising 6 36 120 -

Other 3 10 34 -

Stewardship 1 10 30 -

BBPA Total 33 250 755 819Burnaby Lake PA Board Meeting 10 86 195 3

Event 1 5 30 150


Other 37 89 809 90

Outreach 24 36 233 1,175

Project 1 1 5 -

Stewardship 25 399 1,403 -

BLPA Total 100 621 2,730 1,418Colony Farm PA Board Meeting 5 33 78 -

Event 4 24 124 230


Other 5 25 202 10

Outreach 4 11 56 -


CFPA Total 23 142 946 240Campbell Valley PA Board Meeting 2 15 32 -

Other 1 1 9 -

Fundraising 1 1 3 -


Web/materials dev't 2 2 66 -

CVPA TOTAL 7 66 251 –


PARK ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEERING ACTIVITIES METRICS - CONTINUED


PARK ASSOCIATION (PA) ACTIVITY TYPE NO.

ACTIVITIES


TOTAL VOLUNTEER

HOURS

NO. PUBLIC ATTENDEES

Derby Reach & Brae Island PA

Board Meeting 12 89 254 2

Event 2 50 179 658


Other 12 31 154 139

Outreach 1 1 5 20

Project 1 12 128 -



DRBIPA Total 35 203 904 819Kanaka Environmental Education & Partnership Society

Board Meeting 13 85 205 23

Education Program 135 - - 6,036

Event 6 34 164 1,431

Fundraising 1 1 3 -

Other 5 10 37 800

Outreach 6 7 39 1,030

Stewardship 14 326 1,918 -


KEEPS Total 181 464 2,375 9,320Minnekhada PA Board Meeting 6 37 85 5

Event 11 61 310 957

Other 19 58 201 15

Outreach 4 14 96 850

Project 1 15 695 -



MPA Total 45 210 1,474 1,827Pacific Spirit Park Society Board Meeting 32 159 389 34

Event 1 2 5 -

Other 2 9 18 -

Outreach 1 14 21 -

Project 4 41 108 -

Stewardship 119 1,737 6,137 -


PSPS Total 160 1,963 6,718 34PARK ASSOCIATION TOTAL 584 3,919 16,153 14,477



2016 PARK ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEER HOURS

ACTIVITY TYPE 2016 2015 % CHANGE

Board Meeting 1,487 1,566 -5

Education - 161 -100

Event 1,134 1,368 -17

Fundraising 267 248 8

Other 1,464 1,356 8

Outreach 450 542 -17

Project 936 309 203

Stewardship 10,170 6,263 62

Web/materials dev't 245 305 -20

TOTAL 16,153 12,118 33

2016 SUMMARY OF NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT STEWARDSHIP ACTIVITIES

ACTIVITY TYPE %

Bioengineering Activities 2%

Bird/Bat/Owl Boxes 2%

Habitat Maintenance 11%

Invasive Plant Removal 54%

Monitoring 6%

Native Planting 20%

Other (see comments) 5%

TOTAL 100%

VOLUNTEER HOURS FROM VARIOUS PROGRAMS (REFERENCED IN PARKS BUSINESS PLAN)PROGRAM 2016 (HOURS) 2015 (HOURS) SHIFT FROM 2015 (%)

Park Association Activities 16,153 12,118 33

*Visitor Services Programs 2,185 4,886 -55

NRM Organized Stewardship Activities 8,049 9,211 -13

TOTAL 26,387 26,215 1

*Visitor Services Programs include volunteer hours from: Interpretive Programs/Events, Nature Houses, Visitor Centers, Special Events, Contracted Programs and Beachkeepers.



PARK PARTNERS AND LICENSEES

PARK/ORGANIZATION ACTIVITIES

Boundary BayTsawwassen Lions Club

Service club activities and community engagement

Campbell ValleyCampbell Valley Equestrian Society

Equestrian activities

Campbell ValleyCritter Care

Wildlife rehabilitation and education

Colony FarmColony Farm Community Gardens Society

Operate 250 garden plots

Colony FarmAvian Research Centre

Banding and educational sessions, maintenance activities

Colony FarmBurke Mountain Naturalists

Park tours, nature walks and data collection for herons counts

CrippenBowen Island Fish and Wildlife Club

Salmon hatchery operation, stream keeping and surveys

CrippenBowen Island Memorial Garden Society

Demonstration garden, community work

Iona BeachWild Research

Avian research, bird banding and data collection

Pacific Parklands Foundation Non-profit society; improve, sustain and expand Metro Vancouver regional parks

Catching the Spirit Youth Society Non-profit organization; leadership development and environmental stewardship

Note: These groups are examples of the 11 different leases, licences and other community groups that conduct operations,including contributing volunteer time in Regional Parks.



VOLUNTEER STEWARDSHIP METRICS BY REGIONAL PARK & PARK ASSOCIATION INVOLVEMENT

PARK PARK ASSOCIATION (IF APPLICABLE)

TOTAL VOLUNTEER

HOURS


NO. ACTIVITIES

ALD NRM Organized* 497 189 6

BEL NRM Organized* 447 137 8

BFG Burnaby Lake PA** 12 3 1

BOU Boundary Bay PA** 30 10 1

NRM Organized* 202 40 10

BRA NRM Organized* 23 9 1

BUR Burnaby Lake PA** 1,391 396 24

CAM Campbell Valley PA** 141 47 1

NRM Organized* 1,110 420 20

CAP NRM Organized* 233 87 3

COL Colony Farm PA** 453 59 4


CRI NRM Organized* 252 123 13

DEA NRM Organized* 20 27 1

DER Derby Reach - Brae Island PA** 19 5 2


ION NRM Organized* 1,101 471 8

KANKanaka Environmental Education & Partnership Society**

1,918 326 14


MIN Minnekhada PA** 51 23 2


PAC Pacific Spirit Park Society** 6,137 1,737 119

NRM Organized* 1,050 346 19

SUR NRM Organized* 719 253 6

TYN NRM Organized* 1,578 616 26

WES NRM Organized* 176 79 13

WID NRM Organized* 240 59 6

PA TOTAL 10,153 2,606 168

NRM ORGANIZED 8,049 3,006 151

GRAND TOTAL 18,202 5,612 319

* NRM Organized - those events organized and or conducted by the Natural Resource Management business unit** PA - Park Association

APPENDIX D: OTHER DATA 2016



STEWARDSHIP TECHNICIAN ORGANIZED EVENTS IN 2016

REGIONAL PARK STEWARDSHIP TECHNICIAN LEAD

STEWARDSHIP TECHNICIAN SUPPORTED

STEWARDSHIP TECHNICIAN

NOT INVOLVED

Aldergrove

Number of Events 6 – –

Number of Volunteer Hours Generated 497 – –

Belcarra



Boundary Bay

Number of Events 2 9 –

Number of Volunteer Hours Generated 63 170 –

Brae Island



Brunette-Fraser Greenway

Number of Events – – 1

Number of Volunteer Hours Generated – – 12

Burnaby Lake

Number of Events 1 14 9

Number of Volunteer Hours Generated 62 689 641

Campbell Valley


Number of Volunteer Hours Generated 1,135 116 –

Capilano



Colony Farm

Number of Events 3 – 2

Number of Volunteer Hours Generated 81 – 422

Crippen



Deas Island



Derby Reach





REGIONAL PARKStewardship

Technician Lead

STEWARDSHIP TECHNICIAN SUPPORTED

STEWARDSHIP TECHNICIAN

NOT INVOLVED

Iona


Number of Volunteer Hours Generated 1,101 – –

Kanaka Creek



Minnekhada



Pacific Spirit


Number of Volunteer Hours Generated 2,156 4,058 973

Surrey Bend



Tynehead



Westcreek Wetlands



Widgeon Marsh



GRAND TOTALS

NUMBER OF EVENTS 118 136 65

NUMBER OF VOLUNTEER HOURS GENERATED 8,481 6,487 3,234

Note: Stewardship Technician supported includes both on and off-site activites and also includes Park Association involvement

STEWARDSHIP TECHNICIAN ORGANIZED EVENTS IN 2016 - CONTINUED



BEACHKEEPERS VOLUNTEERS AND VOLUNTEER HOURS 2016

YEAR VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEER HOURS

1997 6 40

1998 21 263

1999 21 272

2000 17 156

2001 15 277

2002 18 282

2003 11 330

2004 13 228

2005 12 725

2006 15 700

2007 12 528

2008 17 725

2009 10 504

2010 20 739

2011 26 986

2012 18 628

2013 19 735

2014 26 909

2015 25 909

2016 21 771



REGIONAL PARKS – OFFICIAL NAMES, SIZES, OPERATING AREAS & HOST MUNICIPALITIES

PARK ADMIN AREA ABB. HOST MUNICIPALITY(S) AREA(HA)

Aldergrove Regional Park East Area ALD Langley Township / Abbotsford 279.9

Barnston Island Regional Park Central Area BAR Electoral Area 'A' 26.5

Belcarra Regional Park Central Area BEL Port Moody / Belcarra / Anmore 1,094.6

Boundary Bay Regional Park West Area BOU Delta 193.2

Brae Island Regional Park East Area BRA Langley Township 67.2

Burnaby Lake Regional Park Central Area BUR Burnaby 139.3

Campbell Valley Regional Park East Area CAM Langley Township 544.9

Capilano River Regional Park West Area CAP North Vancouver District / West Vancouver 150.9

Colony Farm Regional Park Central Area COL Coquitlam / Port Coquitlam 260.6

Crippen Regional Park West Area CRI Bowen Island 221.4

Deas Island Regional Park West Area DEA Delta 75.2

Derby Reach Regional Park East Area DER Langley Township 312.0

Glen Valley Regional Park East Area GLE Langley Township / Abbotsford 169.1

Iona Beach Regional Park West Area ION Richmond 716.6

Kanaka Creek Regional Park East Area KAN Maple Ridge 440.1

Lynn Headwaters Regional Park West Area LYN North Vancouver District 3,725.1

Matsqui Trail Regional Park East Area MAT Abbotsford 132.2

Minnekhada Regional Park Central Area MIN Coquitlam 211.2

Pacific Spirit Regional Park West Area PAC Vancouver / Electoral Area 'A' 873.8

Sumas Mountain Interregional Park East Area SUM Abbotsford 756.6

Surrey Bend Regional Park Central Area SUR Surrey 347.4

Thwaytes Landing Regional Park Central Area THW North Vancouver District 47.5

Tynehead Regional Park Central Area TYN Surrey 255.4

TOTAL: 23 REGIONAL PARKS 11,040.7

REGIONAL PARKS RESERVESBlaney Bog Regional Park Reserve East Area BLA Maple Ridge 124.0

Fraser Islands Regional Park Reserve West / Central FRA Richmond / Port Coquitlam 208.6

Widgeon Marsh Regional Park Reserve Central Area WID Coquitlam / Electoral Area 'A' 620.4

TOTAL: 3 REGIONAL PARK RESERVES 953.0

ECOLOGICAL CONSERVANCY AREASBurns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area West Area BUB Delta 2,254.6

Codd Wetland Ecological Conservancy Area East Area COD Pitt Meadows 103.9

TOTAL: 2 ECOLOGICAL CONSERVANCY AREAS 2,358.4

REGIONAL GREENWAYSBrunette Fraser Regional Greenway Central Area BFG Burnaby / New Westminster 9.5

Delta South Surrey Regional Greenway West Area DSG Delta / Surrey 7.6

North Alouette Regional Greenway East Area NAG Maple Ridge 30.0

Pitt River Regional Greenway West Area PRG Pitt Meadows 42.9

Seymour River Regional Greenway West Area SRG North Vancouver District 0.8

TOTAL: 5 REGIONAL GREENWAYS 90.9


a metrovancouver ~ SERVICES AND SOLUTIONS FOR A LIVABLE REGION


To: MVRD Board of Directors

From: Kelly Hardy, Office Supervisor, Board and Information Services, Legal and Legislative Services

Date: April 26, 2017 Meeting Date: May 26, 2017

Subject: Delegations Received at Committee April 2017

RECOMMENDATION That the MVRD Board receive for information the report, dated April 26, 2017, titled “Delegations Received at Committee April 2017” containing submissions received from the following delegates: a) Melissa Harrison, Chair, Bowen Heritage; andb) Judi Gedye, President, Bowen Heritage.

PURPOSE The purpose of this report is to keep the Board informed of delegation activities at Committee in accordance with Board direction.

Attached are summaries of the delegates to the following committees:

Regional Parks Committee

a) Melissa Harrison, Chair, Bowen HeritageThe Regional Parks Committee received the delegation executive summary and heard thedelegation. No further action was taken.

b) Judi Gedye, President, Bowen Heritage.The Regional Parks Committee received the delegation executive summary and heard thedelegation. No further action was taken.

21495442

Section E 2.1


Delegations Received at Committee April 2017 MVRD (Parks) Regular Board Meeting Date: May 26, 2017

Page 2 of 4

Executive Summary Melissa Harrison, Chair, Bowen Heritage

The Davies Orchard cottages were built 90 years ago by the Union Steamship Company as part of their extensive leisure development on Bowen Island. The 20 cottages that originally stood in the orchard were a small handful of the total of around 200 cottages built by the company, around the Snug Cove and Deep Bay area. I believe you earlier heard about the tea rooms, dance hall and picnic grounds, as well as various sport facilities and a pleasure garden. There was also a farm to provide for the visitors and all the people who worked for the company.

Vancouver folk came to Bowen Island for the day or for longer stays, brought by Union steamships such as the Lady Alexandra, which was licensed for 1400 passengers per trip, but frequently carried as many as 2000. For scale, that’s around the same passenger capacity as the BC Ferries’ largest, ‘Spirit class’ vessels. At the height of Bowen’s popularity, in 1946 101,000 people visited the resort here, when the rapidly expanding population of Vancouver was still only 365,000. That’s more than a quarter of the population of Vancouver visiting this little island each year, allowing for connection and collective memory formation during an important period of the city’s developing identity. Few heritage sites in the region can claim to have touched so many lives, and such a large proportion of lives, in such an important phase of Vancouver’s history.

The Davies Orchard is the only extant steamship-era holiday cottage precinct that remains intact and accessible in the region, and so far as we can gauge, in North America. There are stray cottages here and there, but nowhere does the original layout and purpose of the cottages remain apparent. In the Davies Orchard, the massing of the cottages as a group, the number of them and the way they are all oriented toward the ocean together, shows the park visitor a glimpse of the scale of the site, and allows them to imagine the impact and experience of the instant community of summer residents, shipped in and all suddenly living cheek-by-jowl. A very human story to which everyone can relate, but also one which is still in living memory for many native Vancouverites. Many people can remember staying in the cottages, or their parents or grandparents have stories to tell about staying here.

The significance of this history to Bowen Island and the region is the reason why the Davies Orchard cottages are specifically mentioned in the island’s OCP. The OCP expresses the wish that the cottages be restored and maintained, and that some of them are brought into some kind of ‘civic, community or arts and crafts studio use.’ This is echoed in the Cultural Master Plan. These are the only buildings on Bowen Island that receive that kind of mention, so you can see how important they are to us. This is borne out by the fact that the cottages that we have been allowed to restore have been the recipients of much volunteer love and labour. To expand that, we need to bring the buildings into use.

So what I would like to ask the committee is that, recognizing the historical value of the entire cottage precinct, that you will be willing to explore all possibilities to preserve as many cottages as possible, as well as allow us to bring forward for consideration, a sustainable use plan for the site and buildings that is consistent with Bowen’s OCP and Cultural Master Plan, as well as Metro Vancouver Regional Parks’ priorities, needs and vision for the area.

ATTACHMENT A



Page 3 of 4

Executive Summary Judi Gedye, President, Bowen Heritage

TO: METRO PARKS meeting on Bowen Island, April 26, 2017 FROM: BOWEN HERITAGE, Bowen Island, B.C.

SPECIFIC ACTION: For the board to consider a third option to fully explore restoring ALL of the cottages. We strongly believe there is a viable case to be made for this small corner of the park to be focused on heritage - not exclusively but uniquely.

We welcome a number of the changes in the proposals, such as the reconfiguring of pathways to be more welcoming, and the greater focus on the demonstration garden and embracing the orchard. However, the list of acceptable "non-exclusive regional uses" used in the assessment of Davies Orchard is incomplete. In the agenda to the March 1, 2017 Park Committee meeting (p.51 and 99) in relation to the discussion concerning Belcarra there was a longer list of acceptable uses. Only 3 of a possible 9 were considered "suitable" in the analysis of Davies Orchard, 4 were "not recommended" and 2 were not considered, in particular, artist studio or gallery space and caretaker. Statistics Canada has ranked Bowen as one of the top 10 small communities in Canada with income derived from art, there are a wide variety of funding sources for arts, and Bowen Heritage has worked closely with the BI Arts Council in their successful infrastructure fundraising efforts.

The "Region Wide Survey" of November, 2016 conducted by Justason Market Intelligence, was also attached to the March 1st agenda and is referred to very briefly in the Davies Orchard Concept Options document attached to this agenda (p. 12). That report appears to form the basis of the two concept proposals put forward for Davies Orchard.

We are highly critical of that report, and suggest it should not form the basis of any informed decision-making. The original survey was a 10 day on-line questionnaire with very little publicity to attract participants. It was a remarkably small sample (.0006 of the population of Vancouver of 2,500,000). The notes indicate that the numbers are unreliable (March 1, 2017 Parks agenda p. 73), nevertheless 89% of the sample (ie. 1016) had visited parks in the NW and 15% of those (152) had visited Crippen. There was no indication if any of those visitors had been in Davies Orchard at any time or in the summer when we offer free tours. Of the list of choices [p.24: What do you do at a regional park?] there was no mention of a museum, unless "other" is considered, and the list of "What's important in a park" [p.27] also makes no mention of heritage, museum, heritage information or heritage orchard. The list of best uses for buildings in parks [p.29] included "preserved historic buildings" with a healthy 28% acceptance, the third highest choice, but that statistic is not included in the summary attached to this agenda [p. 12]. That question was asked of the entire sample, including 85% who had never been to Crippen. The next question was whether the respondents favoured removal of buildings, and the question following that was loaded: [p.33] Q7:"Metro Vancouver faces choices about how to share resources across regional park lands. Compared to regional park services such as providing trails and picnic areas, acquiring land and restoring habitat, do you feel maintaining and improving heritage buildings in Regional Park lands should become a more important or less important priority?" The largest percentage (46%) indicated "more important" with 13% of that indicating "much more". 18% indicated "less important", with 5% of that "much less important", and 31% indicating neutrality. That statistic is not mentioned in the summary attached to this agenda.

ATTACHMENT B



Page 4 of 4

Perhaps the most important statistic [p.51] was that 85% of the total sample had never visited Crippen and a further 10% had not visited in the past year. Of the remaining 5%, 4% visited fewer than 5 times a year. Apparently, there is not a lot to attract visitors. That idea is a lynchpin in Bowen's recent marketing strategy, but if Davies Orchard did not appear like a slum, if it were welcoming and active, the statistics might be different. And if we had been asked to survey actual visitors to Davies Orchard. It also appears necessary to emphasize that, in no small measure because it is part of the Islands Trust and development is restricted, but also because over 50% is Crown land, plus there is a large ecologically protected area, plus municipal parks and trails, all in addition to Cripple, Bowen Island is predominantly green and in marked contrast with the urban areas in which many Metro Van Parks are located. Thus, we strongly dispute the key concept underlying the suggestion to demolish cottages: that views and open space should dominate. What we sorely lack is built public space. Additional trails in Davies Orchard would not be sufficient justification to demolish of any cottages. In Crippen alone, there are several kilometers of trails through forested land - the Killarney Lake trail is highlighted in many BC trail books. Further, a mere 50 paces away from Davies Orchard are two under-utilized open fields, one with 3 large picnic shelters. There is no beach access within Davies Orchard such that improved beach access as a goal is illogical. A kayak rental business is immediately adjacent, and fishing or crabbing next to a marina should not be encouraged. The unique feature of the orchard area is the cottages. Ultimately, we believe that to attract people to Crippen we need something more than spectacular walking trails and more open spaces. With a revitalized heritage site that we can properly advertise (like Burnaby Village or Britannia Mine), perhaps with more art installations and more programming, we could attract more people. We have a deep, rich heritage story which should be honoured, savoured, marketed and enjoyed, not destroyed. The two options presented limit our future possibilities in ways that we believe are not sustainable. Crippen was purchased with the understanding that it was important to preserve the unique heritage of the USSC. Already, hundreds of cottages have been demolished but there has always been a clear understanding and expectation that Davies Orchard would be part of a "Heritage Precinct" joining the Causeway, the Old General Store, the Cenotaph and the Boardwalk. Over 26 years, Bowen Heritage has received thousands of dollars of grant money for restoration, stabilization, programming and publications and Metro has also invested further thousands but in the last 10 years Metro has backed off endorsing any grant proposals for capital restoration asking us to be patient while a heritage policy is developed. In the last year there has been an allocation of staff planning hours, development of this plan, a budget allocation and consultants hired but bottom line is that neither option includes our vision to restore all the Davies Orchard cottages. We are asking for a direction to staff to present a third option that all cottages be restored and for that option to be presented to the community as part of the next phase of feedback.


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