Should the Sea Island Dike Be Raised to Protect Vancouver Airport from Flooding?
Official title: Sea Island Conservation Area East Dike Upgrade
Vancouver Airport Authority wants to raise a 2.5 km dike by about one metre to better protect the airport from flooding. The work would happen in the Sea Island Conservation Area, which means clearing vegetation and relocating a drainage ditch. Multiple federal agencies are involved, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada may need to authorize the project.
Why This Matters
Fly through Vancouver International Airport? This project aims to keep it running during major floods. The work happens in a conservation area, so there's a trade-off between protecting critical infrastructure and preserving wildlife habitat.
What Could Change
If approved, the dike would be raised by one metre along 2.5 km. Vegetation would be cleared and a drainage ditch relocated. The conservation area would be restored after construction, but habitat disruption is expected during the work.
Key Issues
- How will the project affect wildlife habitat in the Sea Island Conservation Area?
- What measures will be taken to restore the site after construction?
- Is raising the dike by one metre sufficient for long-term flood protection?
Indigenous Consultation
This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.