MacKay Creek Watershed Summary

Summary

MacKay Creek Watershed
Drainage Area = 7.8 km²
Length = 8.1 km
Orientation: North-South
Elevation Range:180-1105 m

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

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

Watershed Projects

Annual Mackay Creek Clean-up; Incubation boxes for coho; Emsley Creek enhancement
Fish ladder and Wilderness Watch – North Shore Fish and Game Club
Some storm drain marking
91-92 - District 44 school students released coho fry
1996 – Habitat restoration following 1995 debris flow