Introduction

Who are we?

The Pitt Polder Preservation Society is a group of concerned citizens of many diverse backgrounds, who are committed to the preservation and protection of the Pitt Polder (Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge).

Did you know...?

...that the word 'polder' is a Dutch word meaning 'land reclaimed from the sea.' It refers to the dyked lowlands in the north-east sector of Pitt Meadows, as well as the lowlands of Maple Ridge. Dutch pioneers drained and dyked the wetlands for agriculture. The word 'Pitt' in the phrase 'Pitt Polder' refers to the Pitt River.

...that the The Pitt Polder Preservation Society was formed in 1997 to fight against the Swaneset Bay Golf Resort development.

...that in July of 2000, the PPPS won its appeal in the BC Supreme Court against the District of Pitt Meadows. Winning the court challenge quashed the rezoning of bylaws that would have allowed residential development at Swaneset Bay Golf Resort. If these bylaws had gone unchallenged, they would have led to a flurry of developments in the polder. Thanks to the efforts of the Polder Society and the Concerned Citizens of Pitt Meadows, the polder remains a peaceful and beautiful agricultural area.

...that the PPPS was the leading organization in the conservation of Blaney Bog. The Society began its efforts to raise public awareness about the bog in March 9, 1997 and continued to lobby politicans until July 31, 2000 when Blaney Bog was dedicated a Greater Vancouver District Park.

...that the PPPS also spearheaded the conservation of the Codd Islands Wetlands. The site was dedicated as a Greater Vancouver District Park on June 1, 2004.

...that both Blaney Bog and the Codd Wetlands are conservatories for plants and wildlife, not 'people parks.' There will be no public access, except for the purpose of research, enhancement and management.

Why Preserve the Polder?

The Polder is a unique ecological area--a mix of marsh, bog, inter-tidal mudflats, upland forest and farmland. It is a major nesting and resting area for birds on the Pacific Flyway migration route
It provides protection for many rare and endangered birds like the Greater sandhill crane and Tundra swan.
To preserve farmland.
To provide opportunities for people to experience nature.

Value of Wetlands

Wetlands stabilize and prevent erosion, filter harmful toxic substances and moderate the impact of storm water run-off, preventing flooding. Wetlands store carbon from auto and industry fuel emissions. The carbon is stored as long as the land is undisturbed. By disrupting these areas, methane and carbon are released into the air, contributing to global warming. The wetlands and the surrounding dykes provide recreation for birders, hikers, cyclists, dog-walkers, canoeists, photographers, horseback riders. Wetlands are places of natural beauty.

The Pitt Polder-Maple Ridge Wetlands are an ecological treasure. These lands are home to a diversity of unique plants, rare birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish. They provide a breeding ground for salmon and, later, a nursery for their offspring. Approximately one half of the Lower Mainland population of Greater sandhill cranes reside in our local wetlands. Sandhill cranes are on the Federal Endangered List as "vulnerable and sensitive".

Home - NEW Pelton Farm ALR Exclusion Proposal - Mission statement - Contacts - PPPS vs the District of Pitt Meadows - Codd Island Wetlands - New Initiatives - Blaney Bog - Photo gallery - Links - Membership - Teacher Resources

Introduction

Who we are?

Did you know...?

Why Preserve the Polder?

The Value of the Wetlands?

Who are we?

Did you know...?

Why Preserve the Polder?

Value of Wetlands

© 2000- 2010. Website maintenance Al Sather