Community Joins Forces to Restore Fishtrap Creek Park in Abbotsford

By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | May 23, 2025

An Abbotsford greenspace is about to receive some much-needed care, thanks to the efforts of local residents and the Fraser Valley Conservancy. On Saturday, May 31, community members will gather at Fishtrap Creek Park for a hands-on event focused on removing invasive plant species threatening the park’s delicate ecosystem.

The invasive plant removal workshop, which runs from 9 a.m. to noon, is more than just a cleanup — it’s a chance for participants to learn, connect, and actively contribute to environmental restoration. Leading the day will be the Fraser Valley Conservancy’s habitat enhancement coordinator, who will kick things off with a guided walk through the park, offering insights into the native flora and fauna and highlighting the environmental pressures facing the area.

Volunteers will then get to work tackling English ivy, Himalayan blackberry, and lamium — three particularly aggressive plant species that are crowding out local biodiversity. These invasive plants are part of a broader issue in British Columbia, where invasive species cause more than $65 million in damage annually to agriculture, infrastructure, and natural habitats.

“This event is a great opportunity for people to learn how to tell the difference between native and invasive plants,” said a representative from the Conservancy. “With that knowledge, they can continue to help protect other green spaces in their daily lives.”

All training and tools will be provided free of charge. Volunteers are simply asked to come dressed for the weather and terrain, and to bring a reusable water bottle.

Pre-registration is required, and those interested can sign up at fraservalleyconservancy.ca/calendar-events.

Whether you're an avid gardener, a concerned citizen, or someone who just loves spending time outdoors, this is a chance to give back to nature — one vine at a time.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance. With 19 years experience, she will well versed in the technical aspects of business coverages.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jholly-hansen@wbnn.news. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

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