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The "Ecosystem Review"

Ecological ViabilityIn June of 1999, the Government of British Columbia and Delta Fraser Properties Partnership (the owners of 2,200 ha of Burns Bog at the time) agreed to undertake an ecosystem review of Burns Bog. The purpose of the review was to determine what was necessary to preserve the ecological integrity of Burns Bog, specifically relating to the hydrology, geology, flora, and fauna. The BC Environmental Assessment Office managed the review process.

After several months of detailed field research, it was determined that Burns Bog is globally unique on the basis of its chemistry, form, flora and large size. Despite significant disturbances to the ecosystem, including development (agricultural, residential and industrial) extensive peat mining, and fire, Burns Bog remains an important contributor to the ecology of the region and supports rare species and plant communities.

The Ecosystem Review highlighted the importance of the raised water mound in the bog. The ecological viability of the bog is directly dependent on the continued existence of this water mound. Drainage from an extensive ditch network dug throughout the bog during the peat mining days has lowered the average position of the water table by about 25 cm (compared to the 1930s). It was emphasized in the review that any further lowering of the water table (i.e. reduction of the water mound) could have a significant impact on the viability of the bog.

The authors of the Ecosystem Review recommended the preservation of the remaining undisturbed areas (approximately 29% of the original area of the bog), and suggested that much of the remainder of the bog be protected and allowed to restore.

 

 

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