Three Creeks

The Importance of Three Creeks

This 8 acre property of mature western redcedar, bigleaf maple, and sword fern forest is in the McKee Peak neighbourhood, on Sumas Mountain in Abbotsford.

Three Creeks protects a corridor for wildlife and multiple species at risk acting as a connection between parks and green spaces. These connections are increasingly important as as human development occurs throughout the surrounding landscape.

The land was donated in 2014 to the Fraser Valley Conservancy by the developer who built the neighbouring homes.

ATTENTION NEIGHBOURS – If you live around the Three Creeks property and want to learn more about being a good neighbour, click below!

Info for Neighbours

We respectfully acknowledge the Three Creeks property is in the shared unceded territory of the Stó:lō people (S’ólh Téméxw). We especially want to thank the Semá:th (Sumas) First Nation whose home includes what is now commonly referred to as Sumas Mountain. Additional appreciation is also given to the Máthxwi (Matsqui), Qw̓ɑ:nƛ̓ə̓n̓ (Kwantlen) and Leq'a:mel (Leqamel) First Nations for whom Sumas Mountain is also a traditional gathering place. We appreciate the privilege of being able to protect and steward this sacred land as they have for generations.

Fraser Valley Conservancy staff and board members

Who Lives at Three Creeks?

Protecting Natural Values in Perpetuity

All our management decisions for Three Creeks are centered around protecting the following natural values. These features are integral to supporting the habitat for the wildlife who call it home. They also benefit the whole community by providing important ecological services, such as reducing the impacts from heavy rains and extreme heat events.

Vegetative Communities

There is a diversity of plants which support a range of wildlife species. These include Pacific waterleaf and sword fern on the ground, to the majestic western redcedars and bigleaf maples that form much of the canopy. These plant communities represent the natural habitat of Sumas Mountain.

Wildlife Species

A number of animal species call it home. Some live here most of the year, others use it to travel between different habitats. Each of these species plays role in the biodiversity of the mountain. We are providing them space to continue to exist alongside development.

Species at Risk

As our planet faces a biodiversity crisis, protecting the habitat used by species at risk is crucial. Three Creeks is home to several such species including Oregon Forestsnail and Northern Red-legged Frog, with potential for others like the Mountain Beaver.

Hydrology

Water is important! It is also what makes this property unique. The numerous creeks and springs support sensitive ecosystems and the rare species that live here. The creeks and wetlands also help protect and support everything downstream which includes vital salmon streams.

Soil

The continuous buildup of organic matter from the forest creates a deep layer of healthy soil. These soils create favorable conditions for the plants, which in turn provide food and habitat for wildlife. The soil doesn’t just have an upward value either, it also filters and improves water quality downstream.

Other Values

The property’s hilly and uneven landscape allows for a variation in the habitats used by different plants and animals. Other features such as fallen trees, branches, rocks, streams and even small puddles, provide shelter and foraging opportunities for animals through all seasons and weather conditions.

Resources

Three Creeks Management Plan

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