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Environmental Services for the Town of Comox Official Community Plan

Town of Comox through the Arlington Group (2009- present)

DHC teamed up with the Arlington Group to provide environmental services related to the development of a new Official Community Plan for the Town of Comox. The tasks provided by DHC include the review of environmental features and sensitive areas in and around Comox. All existing municipal bylaws, regulations and guidelines were reviewed to identify gaps in policy related to the management of the environment. DHC worked with the planning team to provide summaries for use at public consultation events. Recommendations were made for planning objectives and policy to be incorporated into the OCP as well as new Bylaws.

Invasive Plant Inventory and Habitat Restoration Plan

City of Burnaby (2009)

DHC conducted a baseline invasive plant survey (21 species), spatial analysis and developed habitat restoration guidelines for specific City owned parkland and green spaces. The survey and mapping components of the study identified and documented the presence of invasive species while the analysis of this data directed the development of management recommendations and restoration guidelines for long-term invasive plant species management. The overall objective of this report was to provide the City with a framework for the future development of a locally relevant and cost-effective invasive plant management program and to propose selected pilot projects.

City of Coquitlam - Sustainable Urban Forest Management Strategy

City of Coquitlam (2009)

DHC is currently developing a strategic document that will guide future planning and management of trees, forests and natural areas within the City of Coquitlam. This planning document will ensure that ecological integrity and natural processes are maintained; thereby meeting the City's long-term environmental protection goals and policy objectives. This project requires extensive analysis of existing bylaws, regulations and guidelines, as well as existing biophysical inventories and studies. Consultation with City staff and key stakeholders will identify the critical concerns to be addressed in the long term management plan.

Best Management Practices for Tree Removals in Parks and Protected Areas

Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection, Parks and Protected Areas Branch (2004)

BC Parks recognized the need to remove trees from parks for a variety of reasons including hazard mitigation, pest management, road development and restoration of native disturbance regimes in fire-regulated ecosystems. When it is necessary to fall trees within parks, the primary objectives are to minimize the ecological damage caused by the operation and to ensure that the site is rehabilitated as quickly as possible. DHC researched and produced a series of guidebooks that establish the standards, objectives and Best Management Practices for removing trees within provincial parks and protected areas. The following three guidebooks were developed: Planning Guidebook, Forest Road Design and Engineering Guidebook, and Harvesting Operations Guidebook. Their purpose is to provide government staff and contractors with comprehensive guidelines, ensuring that all tree removal projects are executed in compliance with both BC Parks policies and all provincial and federal legislation. They place an emphasis on practices that identify and protect all critical ecological features.

City of North Vancouver, Master Plan for Urban Forest Management

City of North Vancouver (2006)

The City of North Vancouver hired DHC to complete a comprehensive inventory and management strategy for their natural areas. A strategic document was created to address the access and recreation concerns of the public while meeting natural areas conservation policies. This project, which included 13 parks, was divided into three components: the development of a detailed ecological inventory, detailed prescriptions to sustain the ecological integrity of the parks, and fire management plans. Most of the parks in the City run adjacent to streams and creeks and therefore riparian areas management was focused upon in all management recommendations.

City of Burnaby, Urban Parks Inventories and Management Plans

City of Burnaby (2006)

DHC completed comprehensive ecosystem inventories and forest management strategies for a number of the City's natural areas and parks. The plans included ecosystem mapping, ecological health assessment and prescriptions for their enhancement and long-term integrity. In addition, wildfire management plans were completed for these parks that include strategic fuels treatments to reduce the long-term risk in hazardous interface zones.

Walton Park, Management Plan

City of Coquitlam (2007-2008)

Walton Park is a new protected area that was severely damaged by the winters windstorms of 2006-2007. DHC was hired to assess the ecological characteristics of the forest, consult with the City and the public and make recommendations for its restoration and future management. Issues of concern included the cleanup of the windthorw areas, tree hazard management, public safety and invasive species management. A Park Management Plan was developed that specifies restoration treatment prescriptions as well as detailed recommendation for trails and facilities.

Burnaby Central Park, Inventory and Regeneration Plan

City of Burnaby (2005)

DHC was asked to identify those processes that are impacting forest succession and to make recommendations to ensure that the ecological integrity of the Park is maintained. The Park was delineated into ecotype polygons with similar stand and ecological characteristics. Within each unique polygon, tree characteristics were collected including tree species composition, stocking density, diameters and heights, age classes, live crown ratios, and total crown closure. The sites were also classified according to the Biogeoclimatic Classification System of BC. During the field assessment, special care was taken to look for the presence of any pathogens of concern, sensitive or unique ecological features, endangered plants, fauna or plant communities.

The inventory was used to develop stand enhancement prescriptions to restore the long-term health of these forests. Strategies included monitoring and control of forest pathogens, planting and brushing to promote a healthy understory, rehabilitation of degraded areas as well as a hazard tree management plan.

District of North Vancouver Fromme Mountain Ecosystem Analysis

District of North Vancouver (2004 - 2005)

The North Shore has become recognized as one of the best locations for mountain biking in the world. As such, there has been a dramatic increase in the demand for, and subsequent building of, mountain bike trails and structures. This has presented a serious challenge to the District of North Vancouver in terms of managing the associated liability and impacts to the surrounding environment.

DHC developed an ecosystem ranking system to help manage recreation while protecting key ecological features in the Fromme Mountain Area. Existing GIS databases, orthophoto analysis and representative ground plots were compiled and an ecosystem ranking system was developed. Five critical indicators were given a numeric ranking that increased relative to their ecological value or sensitivity. Their rankings added together to produce a final ecological analysis map. This map helps to envision the collective sensitivity and level of biological diversity found in each forest stand type. Based on these findings, draft recreation management zones were recommended.

Green Timbers Urban Forest and Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest, Ecosystem Based Access and Recreation Management Plans

City of Surrey (2002 - 2003)

DHC prepared management plans for Surrey's two largest Urban Forests. These documents proposed specific actions to address the access and recreation concerns of the public and stakeholders while preserving the ecological integrity and heritage values of the forests. An inventory of the ecology and habitat was conducted to determine the impacts various trails and activities. All trails, their permitted use, conditions and maintenance requirements were inventoried, as well as the signage and facilities in and surrounding the parks.

This provided a foundation from which various options of trail use and their locations were considered with the preservation of the ecological integrity and heritage values as the limiting factors. A consistent signage theme was recommended, which included reducing the 'sign pollution', and suggesting locations for new signage and facilities to meet the needs and reduce the conflicts associated with its users.

This report included extensive consultation with various City employees, the Parks Advisory Committees and numerous user groups and stakeholders. In addition to the consultation noted above, a survey of park users and local residents was conducted to establish the needs, wishes and concerns associated with its use. This information was compiled to help determine appropriate trail designs, locations, and their permitted use and associated signage and facility requirements.

Port Kells Park, Management Plan

City of Surrey (2003)

DHC Ltd was asked to assess the local and regional significance of the ecology and habitat found at Port Kells Park. This assessment was conducted to determine whether access and recreation in the park was feasible while protecting its critical ecology and wildlife habitat. It involved classifying the forested ecosystems into polygons based on similar ecology, stand history and forest type by air photo. Further analysis lead to field visits to collect information pertaining to vegetation cover, critical wildlife habitat, significant natural and cultural features and fire hazard. The data was then compiled into a GIS based inventory system and rare and endangered plant and animal species were identified as listed by the Conservation Data Centre of BC. Recommendations were made with respect to potential recreation and access developments, future park acquisitions in adjacent areas, fire hazard abatement and the protection of rare and endangered species.

Proposed Port Mann Park, Ecology and Wildlife Habitat Assessment

City of Surrey (2002, 2006)

The City of Surrey recognizes the need to identify and protect essential ecological features within their parks system in order to conserve ecological biodiversity on a regional and provincial scale. DHC was approached to develop an ecological inventory, identify critical ecological features, and make recommendations to assist in the planning of the proposed Port Mann Park.

A GIS based ecological inventory was completed for the proposed park that included classifying the ecology to the biogeoclimatic classification of BC, inventorying critical habitat characteristics, stand attributes and describing the understory vegetation. This inventory and field reconnaissance was used to analyze the stand dynamics and seral stage distribution and to identify critical wildlife habitat and rare and endangered plant communities in the proposed park. The existing trails were assessed and recommendations were made to assist in developing an access and recreation plan for the proposed park.

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Horseshoe Dam Remediation Project

Brookfield Power (2009)

DHC was involved with the site review and planning, amphibian and fish salvage, environmental monitoring and compensation work associated with the remediation of Horseshoe Dam, located at the southern end of Horseshoe Lake, about 10 km east of Powell River. A hydrotechnical assessment was conducted and the construction of an 8 meter wide, rock-armoured spillway at the downstream face of the dam was recommended. The primary objective of the project was to ensure environmental compliance on regional, provincial and federal levels through salvages, monitoring and compensation.

Construction associated with the dam remediation impacted aquatic and terrestrial resources. An amphibian trapping and relocation program was developed and executed by DHC. During construction of the rock-armouring, measures were taken to minimize environmental impacts including the use of dewatering pumps , the installation of a silt boom and fish exclusion fencing to ensure that the worksite remained isolated during construction activity. A compensation channel was designed and installed under the supervision of DHC. This channel was successful and is now productive fish habitat.

Fish Habitat Compensation Plans for the Gateway Program Port Mann/Highway 1

(Kiewit/Flatiron Group and Hatfield Consultants - 2009)

DHC was asked to provide riparian planting prescriptions for the habitat compensation areas designed for the Port Mann and Highway sections of the Gateway Program. After the draft channels were designed, it was decided by the management team that a traditional approach to the riparian planting prescriptions would not be successful in these areas. Diamond Head Consulting was asked to review the project areas and provide detailed restoration prescriptions. The construction of the compensation areas requires that extensive earth works be completed and the majority of exposed soils will be heavily disturbed. Based on site conditions, Diamond Head recommended that the prescriptions follow a natural primary succession approach. The soils were carefully analyzed at each site and planting prescriptions were developed with the goal of quickly establishing a crown closure of trees reducing the requirements for invasive species and competition brushing control.

Stand & Understory Vegetation and Wildlife Assessment; and Amphibian Salvage for the Saltery Bay Substation

Subcontract through SNC Lavalin for BC Hydro (2008-2009)

DHC conducted a preliminary assessment of the terrestrial ecology and wildlife use within the construction envelope required for the proposed Saltery Bay Substation near Powell River, BC. The objective of this project was to produce an overview assessment of the ecology, plant community and wildlife that inhabit the site. This information was used as part of the Environmental Assessment, which helped the project team to make decisions regarding the location and construction guidelines of the substation.

An amphibian trapping and relocation program was deemed necessary as the habitat of the blue-listed Red-legged Frog coincides with the substation location. A program was developed by DHC that incorporated isolation fencing, pitfall trap arrays, artificial cover objects (ACOs), and hand salvage techniques DHC applied for and managed the amphibian salvage for the construction footprint. This involved the administrative requirements including application for animal handling permit from the MOE and preparation of methodology and monitoring reports. DHC set up and carried out the amphibian trapping and relocation program. All BMPs were implemented including the required animal capture and handling guidelines. A total of 404 specimens were captured and relocated including 3 adult Red-legged Frogs 16 adult Common Shrews.

Stanley Park Recovery Strategy

City of Vancouver (2007-2008)

DHC is providing arboriculture, forest management assessments and biological monitoring at Stanley Park after the devastating windstorms that occurred in the park. Danger tree and wind firming prescriptions were developed to ensure that additional trees did not fail and that critical ecological features were maintained. Emphasis was placed on protecting wildlife habitat and recreational and heritage values. Regular meetings were held to discuss strategies for removal of the woody debris, taking into consideration the state of the forest and the environmental and social constraints associated with each wind throw area.

Riparian Areas Regulation Assessment Reports

Various Clients (2005 - Present)

When a development application incorporates a stream, the Riparian Areas Regulation (RAR) requires that an assessment methodology is followed and an Assessment Report is completed and filed. The assessment is used to determine the appropriate Stream Protection and Enhancement Area (SPEA) width and the “measures” required to protect and maintain the integrity of the SPEA.

DHC works with developers to complete RAR reports of varying degrees of complexity. DHC has qualified environmental professionals (QEPs) that are able to complete and submit these reports. The process involves justifying and documenting that the protection area will adequately protect the function of the stream.

Seymour-Capilano Filtration Project, Consulting Arborists and Terrestrial Ecologists

Greater Vancouver Regional District (2002 - Present)

DHC is providing ongoing services as they relate to arboriculture and terrestrial ecology for the Seymour-Capilano Filtration Project. Our services have included hazard assessments and mitigation strategies, stand assessments, monitoring, identification of ecological features within and adjacent to the proposed project area and ongoing consultation with the stakeholders, consultants and staff at the GVRD. Currently DHC is in charge of monitoring all construction activities for the Seymour-Capilano Filtration Project as they relate to trees and terrestrial ecology. This includes regular site assessments to review construction activities and ensuring that all contract standards are met by the contractors. DHC meets with a wide variety of stakeholders to ensure that they are up to date with progress and to address any concerns.

Miller Capilano Maintenance Corporation, Environmental Due Diligence Course

Miller Capilano Maintenance Corporation (2007)

A course was created for Miller Capilano Maintenance Corporation by Diamond Head Consulting to highlight their responsibilities and environmental due diligence. In addition to reviewing pertinent legislation and Best Management Practices, the presentation addressed the following issues: environmentally sensitive areas, aquatic systems, sediment & erosion control, species at risk, noxious weeds and hazardous materials. By providing adequate training, supervision and instruction for employees, reasonable action is taken to protect the environment.

Electronic Arts Expansion Project, Forest Enhancement Strategies

Electronic Arts (2003 - Present)

DHC is currently providing arboriculture and terrestrial ecology expertise in the development of a complete environmental assessment and management plan for the proposed expansion of the Electronic Arts Building in Burnaby. This work has included an initial stand and ecological assessment, ongoing consultation with the design team and the development and supervision of a comprehensive stand enhancement strategy. Prescriptions include the removal of invasive species, understory planting prescriptions, hazard tree management and stream restoration.

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City of Surrey Habitat Restoration Prescriptions for Riparian areas and Detention Ponds

City of Surrey (2008 - 2009)

This strategic document was developed for the City of Surrey in response to ongoing difficulties in restoring disturbed riparian areas and detention ponds back to healthy and functioning plant communities. Traditional restoration strategies were not always effective and were based on short term target windows. This strategy provides a new innovative approach for restoring these areas. It is based on natural succession principles and provides clear and scientific based restoration templates. Their development required that a multitude of contributing factors be considered including site disturbance, soil conditions, climate, existing plants and adjacent plant communities, the establishment of invasive species, interplant competition and symbiotic relationships.

The restoration process includes stratifying the restoration site into environmentally uniform segments, prescribing site and soil preparation measures, prescribing planting, maintenance and biodiversity enhancement measures for the appropriate succession stage. The objective of the adopted methodology is to successfully establishing viable, native plant communities in an ecologically sound, sustainable, and cost-effective way.

City of Surrey - Vegetation Maintenance - Invasive Plant Removal at Various Park Natural Areas

City of Surrey (2008 - present)

The City of Surrey has hired DHC to carry out their operational invasive species removal program for the next three fiscal years. The City has a detailed inventory of all invasive species present in their parks. In riparian areas they have prioritized and are completing manual removal of invasives. DHC has an operational crew of four staff that visit the sites, removal the invasives to the standard of the City of Surrey, transport and dispose of the waste. This project provides DHC with an excellent understanding for the operational requirements of completing the inventory required in this project.

Raven Woods Development, Restoration and Habitat Enhancement

Tsleil-Waututh Nation (2007 - 2008)

Raven Woods is a recent development on Tsleil-Waututh Nation property in the District of North Vancouver. During various phases of construction, surrounding land has been cleared of its native understory plant community and associated tree cover. Diamond Head Consulting was retained to develop a site restoration plan that would restore the area to a plant community similar to that which existed prior to disturbance.

To date, a DFO compensation project has been completed, which involved the removal of invasive species surrounding a pond and stream, placement of course woody debris and the establishment of a native plant community. Diamond Head Consulting will be involved with ongoing restoration projects as the development progresses.

Stanley Park Windthrow Rehabilitation-Seawall

City of Vancouver (2007 - 2008)

DHC was hired to install erosion control netting, place 80m3 of mulch and plant understory vegetation the slopes above the seawall where extensive blowdown had occurred. This involved setting up safety systems and fall control. The objective of this project was to stabilize the loose exposed materials on the cliffs above the seawall as a part of the seawall restoration program.

GVRD Seymour/Capilano Filtration Project, Rehabilitation Strategy

GVRD (April 2003 - Present)

DHC is working with landscape architects to develop comprehensive habitat rehabilitation strategies for the filtration project. Prior to clearing of the site, an ecological inventory was developed that accounted for features such as soils, understory vegetation, coarse woody debris and stand structure and composition. This inventory was used to produce a biodiversity/ecosystem ranking for each inventory polygon based on six recognized critical ecological attributes. The combined ranking for each polygon was multiplied by its total area to produce an overall value for the ecosystems impacted by the project. This ranking system was summarized into an ecological balance sheet that was used to set targets for the rehabilitation phase of the project.

Rehabilitation strategies include the salvaging of topsoils, forest floor and coarse woody debris from the site, the creation of wildlife trees through gilding and planting of stems and prescribing plant communities that are red and blue listed. The difference in the ecological balance sheet is compensated for through enhancement projects off site such as biodiversity thinning of second growth stands and fish stream improvement projects.

Shellburn Distribution Terminal, Development of Restoration Plan for West Creek

Shell Canada Products Ltd. (2006 - 2007)

Diamond Head Consulting met with representatives managing the decommissioning of the Shellburn Refinery located in North Burnaby. During the decommissioning, a number of trees that were growing near the top of a naturally forested ravine were felled or pushed over with an excavator. Concerns were raised as to whether this disturbance had caused infractions of any municipal, provincial or federal regulations.

A detailed assessment was completed for the disturbed area, the stream, and the associated ravine and riparian area. A restoration plan was prepared to restore the natural integrity of the disturbed area by stabilizing the slopes, removing excess woody debris and slash, and replanting the disturbed area with ecologically appropriate species.

Cattermole Timber Lands, Restoration and Habitat Enhancement Planning

Cattermole Timber (2005 - 2008)

DHC developed restoration prescriptions for the western edge of Cattermole Timber's property in Chilliwack BC which has been proposed as natural area compensation for a rezoning application. The areas were divided into similar ecosystem types based on their topography and soil conditions. Detailed planting prescriptions were developed to re-establish natural plant communities that would provide a diversity of habitat characteristics adjacent to the Fraser River.

Celtic Shipyards, Foreshore Remediation Project

Progressive Construction (2007 - present)

The Celtic Shipyards project site is located in Vancouver on the Fraser River, with which Diamond Head Consulting has been involved with the landscape management and compensatory habit construction. Riparian area fish habitat was created by planting native vegetation in ecopockets, in addition to the creation of an intertidal marsh and mudflat. A pathway runs alongside the Fraser River and is surrounded by recently planted native species.

Pacific Spirit Regional Park, Restoration Planting Project

Greater Vancouver Regional District (2007 - 2009)

Diamond Head Consulting has been working with the GVRD to restore the native plant community in a 0.15ha region of the foreshore area of Pacific Spirit Regional Park. In addition to removing invasive species, the site restoration plan involves planting species similar to those that existed prior to the disturbance. Course woody debris will enhance the habitat and fencing will protect it from further disruption. Invasive plant management and site monitoring will ensure the development of a stable and healthy plant community.

Winter Crescent, Landscape Management

EPTA Properties (2007)

Diamond Head Consulting was contracted by EPTA properties to implement a riparian area compensation plan along the Nicomekl River and its tributary Anderson Creek. The area was planted with native communities that were selected in accordance with the local ecology. The development will see the completion of 51 residential lots in the spring of 2008.

RDM Enterprises - Industrial Development

RDM Enterprises - Riparian Compensation (2007)

DHC was contracted by RDM to implement a riparian area compensation plan for a large Industrial Development in North Langley, BC. The work involved constructing on average a 1.5 meter deep channel that was 110 meters long from a wetland to a small creek and planting the adjacent areas with appropriate native species.

Avina Fresh Mushrooms Ltd., Restoration and Habitat Enhancement

Avina Fresh Mushrooms. (2006 - 2007)

Diamond Head Consulting developed a restoration prescription for a natural area on Avina Fresh Mushrooms property in Abbotsford. A one-meter wide channel was constructed between an existing culvert and an unimpacted riparian area. The channel was stabilized with riprap and erosion control was implemented with the placement of erosion control blankets. A detailed planting prescription was developed and implemented to mimic natural plant communities that would provide a diversity of habitat features.

Fraser Foreshore Park, Planting and Maintenance of Rehabilitation Areas

BC Hydro - Engineering, Environmental Services (2004)

DHC carried out the planting and maintenance of rehabilitation areas within Fraser Foreshore Park in Burnaby. This work included the collection and planting of cottonwood and willow cuttings as well as the planting of shrubs. Fencing was placed around critical areas and the plantations are being monitored and maintained for a 2-year period.

Elgin Creek Estates, Salmon Spawning Channel for Elgin Creek

Progressive Construction and Developments (September 2002)

DHC rehabilitated a ditch into a potential spawning channel that connected to the lower Elgin Creek in South Surrey as compensation for the development of a field by Progressive Construction. This work included the alteration of watercourse location and width, creation of pools and riffles, input of large course woody debris, placement of spawning gravels and planting the site with native riparian and aquatic species.

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Watershed Plan, Wildlife Management Strategies

Tsleil-Waututh Nation (2007 - Present)

Diamond Head Consulting was hired to develop a wildlife management strategy for the wildlife section of the Indian River Watershed Plan for the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. The overall goal of this strategy is to conserve the diversity of existing wildlife resources, focusing on those species with the greatest conservation needs. This was accomplished through the review of existing data, compilation of GIS data, research, and development of objectives, strategies and specific recommendations for species at risk. An ecosystem-based approach to land use planning allows for long-term ecological integrity of the watershed.

Songbird/Raptor Nesting Surveys

Various Clients (2004 - Present)

Diamond Head has completed songbird and nesting surveys for a variety of clients and projects. The objective of these surveys is to determine to the best possible standard, if there are any active nests supported by the trees and/or understory shrubs that are in or adjacent to an area to be disturbed. This ensures that the client is in compliance with the federal Migratory Birds Convention Act [1994] and attendant Migratory Birds Regulation [1994] that protects migratory birds, their eggs and nests. The survey also considers section 34(a), (b), and (c) of the provincial Wildlife Act [1996 chap 488] which prohibits the taking of birds, eggs, nests.

Bird-nesting surveys are conducted for numerous municipalities, developers and environmental consultants. The surveys include identification of bird species and active nests, and potentially monitoring nests for extended time periods to ensure inactivity prior to nest removal. The following are examples of recently completed bird nesting surveys:

• District of North Vancouver - Draycott Park, Cates Park, Berkley Road, Taylor Creek Greenbelt, Inter-River Park, Lowry Lane, slope stabilization projects;
• Hedburg and Associates Consulting - Telus Mobility Emerald Site Tower, Bell Mobility Access Roads, Malamute Holdings
• BC Hydro - Cypress - Glenmore - Hillcrest Transmission Line, Mount Lehman Substation
• BC Transmission Corporation - Lines 2L9, 2L11, 2L14
• UBC Properties Trust - South Campus Development
• Sechelt - Western Eagle Development
• Various residential developments throughout Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, and the Sunshine Coast

Electrofishing: Theory, Safety and Application Certification

Vancouver Island University (2009)

An electrofishing certification course providing theory, safety and practices. The program meets current Worker's Compensation Board requirements for certification, emphasizing safety but also reviewing the theory and practice of backpack electrofishing. The following topics were reviewed: electrical theory, electrofishing equipment, settings, operator safety, electrofishing procedure and impact considerations. A practicum field session was also conducted.

Coast Meridian Overpass, Pacific Water Shrew Assessment

SNC - Lavalin Constructors Pacific (2008)

The development of the Coast Meridian Overpass Project in the City of Coquitlam impacted aquatic and terrestrial resources and habitats in the proposed development area. Sensitive habitats contained within the project boundaries were assessed and a trapping and translocation program was developed for small mammals and amphibians. Pit fall traps were installed and checked to determine the presence of Pacific Water Shrew, small mammals and amphibian species.

Cates Park, Management Recommendations for Species at Risk for Blowdown Recovery Project

District of North Vancouver (2007)

Cates Park in North Vancouver experienced extensive damage from the windstorms that occurred in December 2006 and January 2007. The majority of standing trees were blown down or damaged in a 1.5 ha area located in the western portion of the park. A temporary road was required for heavy machinery to access the site and remove fallen trees and slash debris. Diamond Head Consulting completed an impact assessment of species at risk and made recommendations for enhancing habitat features where possible.

Mount Lehman Substation, Species at Risk Management/Recovery Strategy

BC Hydro (2006)

A BC Hydro substation had a number of federally and provincially listed species of concern identified at their property. These included the Pacific Water Shrew and Oregon Forest Snail. DHC acted as project managers to help minimize the impacts of the construction process and to provide prescriptions to compensate for habitat that was lost. A detailed management plan was developed to address species at risk habitat mitigation, compensation and recovery programs. The document summarized the life pre-requisites for the species and habitat features or individuals found on the site. Strategies were developed to ensure that there was “no net loss” of habitat for these species. These included salvage and relocation strategies and off site habitat enhancement projects.

Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve, Amphibian Habitat Rehabilitation Strategies

Greater Vancouver Regional District (2006)

DHC was hired to provide rehabilitation prescriptions to enhance amphibian habitat for a small pond located in the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve. Amphibian surveys completed before and a year after completion of restoration work showed that there was a significant increase in amphibian populations.

Seymour-Capilano Filtration Project, Impacts of Noise on Wildlife at Proposed Seymour Tunnel Portal Area

Greater Vancouver Regional District (2004)

DHC was hired to perform an assessment of a proposed tunnel portal site and produce a report discussing the impacts of the construction activities on the wildlife in the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve. DHC reviewed wildlife inventories for the area and performed a background review of projects similar in nature. The document included the expected impacts to specific wildlife species as well as recommendations for minimizing them.

Department of National Defense, Oregon Spotted Frog Recovery Strategy

Pottinger Gaherty (2004)

Mike Coulthard was part of a team put together to help trap and relocate the red listed Oregon Spotted Frog at the Department of National Defense base in Chilliwack. This project included setting up the trapping system, relocating individuals and working with amphibian experts to restore habitat.

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Stanley Park Windstorm Recovery

City of Vancouver (2007 - 2008)

DHC is providing arboriculture, forest management assessments and monitoring at Stanley Park after the devastating windstorms that occurred in the park. Danger tree and wind firming prescriptions have been developed to ensure that additional trees do not fail and that critical ecological features are maintained. Emphasis was placed on protecting wildlife habitat and recreational and heritage values. Regular meetings are held to discuss strategies for removal of the woody debris, taking into consideration the state of the forest and the environmental and social constraints associated with each block. DHC continues to play a critical role in the planning of this project.

City of Coquitlam Tree Recovery Plan

City of Coquitlam (2007 - 2008)

DHC managed the natural areas within the City of Coquitlam (COQ) that were impacted by the winter windstorms of 2005-2006. These events caused extensive damage, forcing the city to address the potential risks of tree hazards, wildfire, insect infestation and slope instability. For each affected area, our team completed a site specific forest stand and recovery risk assessment and an operational remediation plan. These plans address the operational recovery of wood, restoration of the site, geotechnical concerns, wildfire and risk management. Our team managed all aspects of this project from initial inventory and assessments through to mapping and the development of detailed site plans. We reviewed contractor bids to complete the work, selected a proponent along with the City of Coquitlam and supervised operational activities.

Surrey and Stanley Park, Invasive Insect Trap Log Program

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (2007 - 2009)

As part of an early detection survey, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has constructed an insect rearing facility. In co-operation with Surrey's hazard tree removal program and the Stanley Park clean-up project, logs from various tree species are being selected from sites where introduction to invasive alien wood boring insects is high (e.g. industrial zones, landfills, international ports, etc.). Logs are chosen from trees that either exhibit signs of insect activity (e.g. entrance holes, frass, exit holes, galleries, etc.) or symptoms of decline. Logs that meet these criteria are placed within the rearing facility and surrounded with a fine mesh cage to capture emerging insects.

Consulting Arborists and Foresters

British Columbia Transmission Corporation (2003 - Present)

DHC has been providing ongoing services as they relate to arboriculture and forest health for the Edge and Hazard Tree Program for the Lower Mainland since 2003. Our services have included hazard assessments and mitigation strategies, stand assessments, contract management and ongoing consultation with the stakeholders along selected high power transmission lines and other consultants and staff at BC Hydro and BCTC. This contract requires that we organise, manage and report on numerous projects related to the management of trees, fuels and environmental restoration under BCTC transmission lines.

UBC South Campus Development, Project Arborist

UBC Properties Trust (2006 - Present)

Diamond Head Consulting was contracted by UBC Properties Trust to provide ongoing services as they relate to arboriculture for the UBC South Campus development. Our services include initial stand assessment, hazard tree assessments, tree retention strategies, edge treatments and windfirming prescriptions, ensuring that the vegetation management objectives and environmental regulations are being met. Bird nesting surveys and plant salvages were conducted in areas where tree falling occurred.

Tree Retention and Management Plans for Developments

Various Clients (2001 - Present)

DHC works with numerous municipalities, developers and landscape architects to provide all aspects of tree management planning. These plans generally include an initial stand assessment, consultation with a design team, detailed tree inventory, hazard tree assessment and tree retention and replacement strategies. The following are examples of recently completed tree management plans:

• Trails - 500-unit development in West Sechelt
• Porteau Cove - 500-1000 unit development near Squamish, BC
• Cape Roger Curtis - 300 hectares on Bowen Island
• Maple Crest - 200-unit development in Maple Ridge
• Suter Brook - residential development in Port Moody by Onni Group of Companies
• Squamish Cultural Centre - development in Whistler by Waugh Busby and Associates
• Collingwood School Expansion Project - Brook Development Planning in West Vancouver
• Imperial Oil - Ioco restoration site in Port Moody
• Townline - residential development in Squamish by Brook Development Planning
• Cressy Developments - 200-unit development in Surrey

Citywide Hazard Tree Program

City of Surrey (2001 - 2003)

DHC was contracted by the City of Surrey to complete the assessment of each arterial road in the city for tree hazards. Duties included tree hazard assessments, identification of property boundaries, preparation and delivery of presentations for the citywide program, hazard abatement prescriptions and constant liaison with tree removal companies, city staff and concerned residents and organizations. This was a very comprehensive program that required hundreds of man-hours over three years. In this time Trevor Cox became a leading expert in hazard tree evaluation and mitigation.

Lynn Canyon Park, Tree Management Plan

District of North Vancouver (2005)

DHC completed a tree inventory for the parking lot and visitors center area in Lynn Canyon Park. Trees were assessed for their health and hazards in relation to the existing and planned facilities. DHC worked with landscape architects and the District to develop parking facilities that will accommodate the needs of the park while protecting the integrity of the trees and understory vegetation.

Coquitlam Watershed, Western Hemlock Looper Tree Risk Assessments

Greater Vancouver Regional District (2004 - 2005)

DHC was contracted to conduct hazard tree assessments along GVRD mainlines that had Hemlock Looper infestations adjacent to them. Assessments and their resulting recommendations were summarized in a report prioritizing areas for treatment based on the probability of failure and the target rating.

Imperial Oil, Estimated Stand Value for Old Shooting Range Site

Port Moody Imperial Oil (July 2003)

DHC assessed the value of standing timber for a proposed remediation footprint at the former Gun Club site on Imperial Oil Property in Port Moody. The site was divided into stand types and sample plots taken to determine estimate volume and the approximate worth of the existing stand based on the current market values.

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City of Prince George, Wildland/Urban Interface Wildfire Management Strategy

City of Prince George (2005)

A compressive Urban Wildfire Management Strategy was completed for the City of Prince George, providing a background review of the fire environment, the level of wildfire risk, and recommendations on how to prescribe and prioritize treatments to reduce this risk. A detailed forest inventory was completed along with this plan. This provided a detailed and accurate database that was used to evaluate the risk (fire behaviour potential) and consequence (human lives, structures and natural features) of a wildfire occurrence. This landscape level analysis identified a number of continuous hazardous fuels. Long term planning was recommended to strategically reduce the threat in these areas through initiatives such as harvesting and development planning.

In addition to a landscape level analysis, all areas that were within 100 meters of any structures where assessed for fuel loading and fire behaviour potential. These areas were ranked using a fuel hazard assessment procedure that was developed specifically for the forests found in this region. The results of this assessment were used to prioritize areas for fuel treatments.

This report also provided recommendations for future community planning and design. This included not only the treatment of adjacent vegetation but also access, water sources and standards for construction and landscaping. Broad recommendations were made to reduce wildfire threat through wildfire preparedness, public education and interagency co-operation.

Future recommendations included developing a standardized fuel treatment prescription template, establishing pilot projects for fuels treatments within the city, as well as an adaptive management strategy to incorporate new scientific knowledge and to monitor and evaluate treatments implemented to determine their effectiveness.

City of Kelowna, Wildfire Risk Analysis

City of Kelowna (2004)

Our team was hired by the City of Kelowna to complete a Wildfire Risk Analysis for the natural areas within the city limits. A GIS model was based on the original "Wildfire Threat Rating System", however, it was modified to increase the significance of the actual fuel loading and the fire behaviour potential in the interface areas. This ranking is now being used by the City Planning Department to develop community policy and bylaws for minimizing the wildfire threat in the interface of existing and planned developments.

City of Kelowna Parks and Regional District of the Central Okanagan, Fuel Management Strategies

City of Kelowna Parks Department and the Regional District of the Central Okanagan (RDCO) (2004)

Comprehensive Fuels Management Strategies for parks managed by the City of Kelowna and the RDCO were developed to address the threat of future wildfires in the wildland-urban interface zone and provide recommendations and tools to reduce the long-term wildfire hazard on specific properties.

The project areas were stratified based on their fuel characteristics and proximity to interface structures. Ground fuel plots were established in each of these fuel hazard polygons and a detailed description of fuel characteristics, structures and natural features at risk. Utilizing this data, a standardized "Fuel Hazard Ranking System" (FHRS) was developed to produce a numeric ranking for quantifying risk of fire behaviour and the potential consequences to structures in the interface. This ranking system was used to determine where fuel treatments will effectively reduce wildfire threat and to prioritize areas for treatment. Recommendations were developed for implementing fuel treatment.

City of North Vancouver, Community Wildfire Management Plan

City of North Vancouver (2006)

DHC prepared a community wildfire management plan for a number of the City's natural areas and parks. This was completed in conjunction with the completion of a Master Urban Forest Management Plan and Inventory. This plan provided background review of the fire environment, identified the level of wildfire risk and made recommendations on how to prescribe and prioritize treatments to reduce this risk. An evaluation includes the risk (fire behavior potential) and consequence (human lives, structures and natural features) of a wildfire occurrence. Community planning and design includes not only the treatment of adjacent vegetation but also access, water sources and standards for construction and landscaping. Recommendations were also made to reduce wildfire threat through wildfire preparedness, public education and interagency co-operation.

UBC Okanagan Campus, Wildland Fire Management Plan

UBC Campus and Community Planning (2006)

A Wildland Fire Management Plan was completed for the UBC Okanagan Campus, which required that a management strategy be developed to comply with the City of Kelowna's Official Community Plan and meet requirements of the rezoning process. The overall objective of the report was to assess the wildfire threat and provide recommendations and tools to reduce threat adjacent to the development site. This included recommending site-specific fuel treatments for high fuel hazards, making recommendations for improving suppression capabilities, and providing guidelines for building and landscape design that will further reduce wildfire risk.

City of Burnaby, Wildfire Management Plans

City of Burnaby (2006)

DHC was contracted to prepare park wildfire management plans for a number of the city's natural areas and parks including Central Park, Capitol Hill, Scenic Park and Stratford Park. This included developing a GIS based wildfire risk model that accounted for fire behaviour potential, ignition risk, structures and natural values at risk, and suppression constraints. These risk assessments were used to develop fire management zones through the natural areas. For each of these fire management zones, specific prioritized actions were recommended for reducing the fire hazard and ensuring suppression preparedness. These comprehensive plans covered all aspects of fire management including fuels treatments, suppression preparedness, staff training, inter agency responsibilities and protocol as well as public education and involvement.

B.C. Parks and Protected Areas, Wildfire Threat Analysis and Ecosystem Based Wildfire Management Planning

Ministry of Water Land and Air Protection (2000 - 2004)

DHC completed comprehensive ecosystem based fire management plans for a number of parks including:

• Strathcona Provincial Park
• Garibaldi Provincial Park
• Clendinning Provincial Park

In addition, staff working for Diamond Head Consulting were previously involved with similar projects for:

• E.C. Manning Provincial Park
• Skagit Provincial Park
• Cascade Recreation Area
• Mount Robson Provincial Park
• Carp Lake Provincial Park

These plans included the development of a GIS-based "Wildfire Threat Rating System" model to assess wildfire risk across the protected area. This model accounted for fire behaviour potential, the risk of ignition, structures, natural values at risk, and suppression constraints. The final wildfire risk rating formed the foundation for the development of fire management zones and specific recommendations for when to suppress fires and when to allow them to burn naturally. Other recommendations included fuel treatments, fire preparedness, and prescribed burns to enhance wildlife habitat and follow natural disturbance regimes. All reports for the study area were reviewed including environmental research, access and recreation, user group conflicts, and government policy and guidelines. All public interest groups, industry, and first nations with an interest in these areas were consulted and their recommendations summarized.

Squamish Lillooet Regional District, Wildfire Risk Analysis and Fuels Management Strategy

Davies Wildfire Management (2005 - 2006)

DHC worked with Davies Wildfire Management and Timberline Forest Inventory Consultants to help complete a Wildfire Risk Analysis for the SLRD. This was the largest wildfire risk analysis of such detail completed to date, setting a new standard for this type of project. All high-risk areas were assessed in detail using the Interface Fuels Hazard Assessment System. The final management plan provided the SLRD with comprehensive risk analysis, long-term planning initiatives and prioritization of operational treatments to be carried out.

District of Elkford and Sparwood, Wildland/Urban Interface Wildfire Management Strategy

District of Elkford and Sparwood (2006 - 2007)

Our team completed compressive Urban Wildfire Management Strategies for the District of Sparwood and Elkford. These reports provided a background review of the fire environment, identified the level of wildfire risk, and made recommendations on how to prescribe and prioritize treatments to reduce this risk. A detailed forest inventory was completed along with these plans. This provided a detailed and accurate database that was used to evaluate the risk (fire behavior potential) and consequence (human lives, structures and natural features) of a wildfire occurrence. This landscape level analysis identified a number of continuous hazardous fuels. Long term planning was recommended to strategically reduce the threat in these areas through initiatives such as harvesting and development planning.

In addition to a landscape level analysis, all areas that were within 100 meters of any structures where assessed for fuel loading and fire behavior potential. These areas were ranked using a fuel hazard assessment procedure that was developed specifically for the forests found in this region. The results of this assessment were used to prioritize areas for fuel treatments.

This report also provided recommendations for future community planning and design, including not only the treatment of adjacent vegetation but also access, water sources and standards for construction and landscaping. Broad recommendations were made to reduce wildfire threat through wildfire preparedness, public education and interagency co-operation.

Future recommendations included developing a standardized fuel treatment prescription template, establishing pilot projects for fuels treatments within the city, as well as an adaptive management strategy to incorporate new scientific knowledge and to monitor and evaluate treatments implemented to determine their effectiveness.

EC Manning Park, Fuel Break Feasibility Study

Davies Wildfire Management (2005)

Davies Wildfire Management, Diamond Head Consulting, Tom Lacey Ltd. and Timberline completed said study in the fall of 2005. The study involved recommending locations for landscape level fuel breaks to protect the East Gate Community and the Manning Park Lodge area. Potential fuel break locations were assessed and final locations were delineated in the field. Ecologically accurate and scientifically sound fuel treatment recommendations and prescriptions were developed for each fuel break. Presentations of the work were given to the Ministry of Environment and the Manning Park Interface Committee.

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District of North Vancouver - Seniors Support Centre

Pacific Arbor Three Residences (2006-2008)

Diamond Head has been working with the planning team to develop a senior support centre on Mt. Seymour Parkway in North Vancouver. Our team completed the original environmental assessment and has been working with the design team to protect the tree resources, adjacent streams and plant communities. DHC has attended meetings with the District of North Vancouver, public open houses and continues to work with the project team as their environmental representative.

Bowen Island, Cape Roger Curtis Ecosystem Analysis

Pottinger Gaherty Environmental Consultants Ltd. (2004 - 2008)

DHC Ltd. completed a comprehensive ecological inventory and analysis for the proposed development site at Cape Roger Curtis on Bowen Island. The forested areas of the project area were delineated into polygons with similar stand and ecological characteristics. Information was collected from each of these stand types, including Biogeoclimatic Ecosystem Classification, understory species inventory, tree species composition, stocking density, average diameters and heights, species distribution, age class and stand structure. Trees and ecosystems of significance on the site were noted and recommendations were made for retention areas and stand enhancement strategies. In addition, special attention was paid to the identification and protection of rare and endangered plant communities and species.

Porteau Cove, Environmental Planning for a Proposed Development

Pottinger Gaherty (2005 - Present)

DHC completed a comprehensive ecological inventory and analysis for the proposed 300-500-unit development site near Squamish, BC. The forested areas of the project area were delineated into polygons with similar stand and ecological characteristics. Information was then collected from each of these stand types, including Biogeocliamtic Ecosystem Classification, understory species inventory, tree species composition, stocking density, average diameters and heights, species distribution, age class and stand structure. Trees and ecosystems of significance were noted and recommendations were made for retention areas and stand enhancement strategies. In addition, special attention was paid to the identification and protection of rare and endangered plant communities and species.

Comox District, Environmental Overview Assessment

Brenwin Developments (2004)

DHC was hired to complete an environmental review of a proposed development site located in Courtney, BC. The site was divided into similar ecosystem polygons and a detailed inventory was taken of the stand and understory vegetation. The overview included an inventory of the wildlife found using the site as well as the potential wildlife use based on stand characteristics. Recommendations were made for the preservation of critical ecological features including habitat for species at risk.

West Vancouver, Vegetation Assessment for Proposed Collingwood School Expansion

Pottinger Gaherty Environmental Consultants Ltd. (2003 - 2004)

DHC performed a preliminarily stand assessment for the proposed Collingwood School Expansion in West Vancouver. The objective of this site visit was to identify the forested areas on the property and assess their attributes with respect to stand management and hazard mitigation. The forested areas of the project area were delineated into polygons with similar stand and ecological characteristics. Information was then collected from each of these stand types, including species composition, stocking density, average diameters and heights, species distribution, age class and stand structure. Trees and ecosystems of significance on the site were noted and recommendations were made for stand management.

Burrard Indian Reserve No. 3, Stand Assessment and Timber Evaluation

Tera Planning and Takaya Developments Ltd. (2004)

DHC completed a stand assessment and timber evaluation for a proposed development on Lot 79-17 of the Burrard Indian Reserve #3. The project area was delineated into ecological polygons with similar stand and ecological characteristics. Information was then collected from each of these stand types including stand characteristics and understory vegetation. Trees and ecosystems of significance on the site were noted and recommendations were made for stand management. The standing timber was then evaluated for its value. An inventory was taken of the standing trees and they were separated into species, grade and rough volume. The estimated dollar value of the timber was calculated based on current market values.

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City of Surrey, Erosion and Sediment Control Monitoring

Baywest Developments (2009)

Environmental monitoring services are being provided for the development of a commercial office complex in the City of Surrey. An Erosion and Sediment Control (ESC) Plan was evaluated by staff at DHC. Responsibilities on site have included monitoring work activities and ensuring that water discharge is in compliance with standards defined by the City of Surrey Erosion Sediment Control Bylaw (No. 16138). Site visits are being conducted on a regular basis to monitor the ESC measures being taken and to ensure that site discharge into the cities drainage system is within acceptable parameters. Samples for turbidity, pH, and temperature are taken at predetermined monitoring stations. Monitoring logs and reports are produced to record implemented ESC measures and sample results.

Frito Lay Distribution Centre, Erosion and Sediment Control Monitoring

Stantec Consulting Limited (2008-2009)

Diamond Head Consulting Ltd. was appointed as environmental monitor for the development of a distribution centre being constructed for Frito Lay Canada. An Erosion and Sediment Control (ESC) Plan was developed by Stantec Consulting Ltd. and evaluated by DHC. Responsibilities on the five hectare site have included monitoring work activities and ensuring that water discharge from the site is in compliance with standards defined by the City of Surrey Erosion Sediment Control Bylaw (No. 16138). Site visits were conducted on a regular basis to monitor the ESC measures being taken and to ensure that site discharge into Manson Canal and the cities drainage system were within acceptable parameters. Samples for turbidity, pH, and temperature were taken at predetermined monitoring stations. Monitoring logs and reports were produced to record implemented ESC measures and sample results.

Charles Creek, Erosion Repair and Mitigation Project

Miller Capilano Maintenance Corporation (2008)

DHC was retained to conduct environmental monitoring for erosion repair and mitigation work on the lower Charles Creek as proposed by the BC Ministry of Transportation. Stream and riparian characteristics of the creek had been considerably altered by previous instream works, including extensive armouring and grouting of riprap within the channel and on stream banks. DHC conducted an Environmental Overview Assessment and prepared documentation for submission to the Ministry of Environment and Department of Fisheries and Oceans. In addition, an Emergency Response and Spill Contingency plan was developed for project. Site visits were conducted on a regular basis and involved monitoring restoration and enhancement work activities, evaluating water quality, and producing environmental monitoring reports.

Hallowell Bridge, Removal and Replacement Monitoring

Capilano Highway Services Company (2008)

DHC was retained as the environmental monitor for the removal and replacement works that were conducted at the Hallowell Road bridge site. The Ministry of Transportation requested that Capilano Highway Services Company remove and replace the log stringer bridge at the Ruby Creek crossing. Although this project did not require any instream works as the existing bridge foundations were reused for the replacement bridge, it was recognized that there was the potential to affect downstream water quality and fish habitat. Best management practices as per BC Ministry of Environment Guidelines were consulted and a subsequent mitigation plan was developed to minimize the amount of debris and/or deleterious substances from entering the watercourse. DHC evaluated the Environmental Assessment Summary and Construction Plan and prepared the appropriate documentation required by the Ministry of Environment. Work activities were monitored for the duration of the project and an environmental monitoring report was produced to summarize the activities.

Mamquam West Main, Instream Debris Removal Monitoring

British Columbia Timber Sales (2008)

Environmental monitoring was provided by DHC for instream excavation works conducted on a tributary of the Mamquam River, involving the removal of accumulated debris within the channel and underneath the forest service bridge. The tributary is a permanent watercourse with resident salmonids and blue-listed amphibian species. DHC developed a debris removal plan, maintained communications between project contractors and relevant environmental agencies, and produced a monitoring report upon completion of the project.

Environmental Monitoring for Construction Projects Course

Malaspina University College (2007)

An environmental monitoring course providing theory and method of professional practice. A broad range of skills and knowledge were attained to ensure that project construction activities comply with environmental provisions as defined in project approvals, authorizations, and permits; applicable legislation, regulations and guidelines; contract documents and specifications; corporate environmental management programs and policies; and, industry Best Management Practices.

Furry Creek, IPP

Pottinger Gaherty Environmental Consultants Ltd. (2004)

Supplementary environmental monitoring services were provided by DHC for the construction of a small hydro dam on Furry Creek. Services rendered included documentation of construction activities, monitoring construction activities to ensure compliance with DFO requirements, mediation with DFO and industry personnel, and the management of infractions.

Mount Currie, Devine Bridge Removal

Capilano Highway Services Ltd (2003)

On behalf of Capilano Highway Services, Diamond Head Consulting Ltd. was retained to provide environmental monitoring services for the removal of the Devine Bridge. The project involved the removal of an old log stringer bridge, which was becoming unsafe due to decay in the log stringers, decking and railing. Spanning Gates River, a highly productive salmon spawning river, the removal of this bridge had to be done in a manner that avoided the deposition of deleterious substances into the water.

Sunshine Coast, Foreshore Armouring

Capilano Highway Services Ltd (2003)

DHC was hired to monitor the placement of rip-rap around culverts on the Sunshine Coast. This involved working closely with excavator operators to ensure that they minimized disturbances to the marine environment. DHC acted as liaison to government agencies and the public.

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