Characteristics

• Mackay Creek originates at about 2800 ft on the southwest slope of Grouse Mountain
• 29% impervious area in watershed; 54% RFI (GVRD, 1999).
• Status: Endangered – due to impacts of urbanization and the loss of the estuary.

Watershed Use

• Fish: coho, chum, pink, cutthroat, steelhead, Dolly Varden and Rainbow trout
• Wildlife corridor; Vegetation: Coastal Western Hemlock Zone
• Grouse Mountain Resort parking lot; Grouse Mountain ski resort
• GVRD water mains; Hydrometric station; Power line
• Residential                                      · Old gravel pit
• Recreation and Parks                        · Commercial industry

Concerns

• Classified as endangered due to effects of urbanization and loss of estuary (DFO, 1998)
• Significant water quality problems (FRAP); Concern over cumulative impacts (FRAP)
• Impervious surfaces (concrete, buildings, etc.) >10% of the watershed (FRAP)
• Development applications propose to divert or modify the floodplain or mouth (DFO, 1998)
• Significant loss of riparian vegetation and rip rapping along stream banks (FRAP)
• Bank and slope instability leading to erosion and flooding (Kerr Wood Leidal, 1982)
• Damming in several areas blocks fish passage (Haggard, 1978).
• The ski area is a watershed management concern (Kerr Wood Leidal Associates, 1999)
• The creek runs through 2 municipalities but management not coordinated