A Tapestry of Time: The Ecological History of North Burnaby

Introduction:

Nestled within the heart of British Columbia, North Burnaby stands as a living testament to the intricate dance between human history and the natural world.  This essay embarks on a journey through time, peeling back the layers of North Burnaby’s ecological tapestry to uncover the pre-contact era’s indigenous land use and settlement, the ebb and flow of wildlife populations, the transformative effects of early European settlement and resource extraction, the challenges posed by invasive species, the dynamic trajectory of urban development, and the enduring commitment to stewardship that continues to shape the region’s contemporary landscape. Through this exploration, we gain insight into a community’s resilience, adaptation, and ongoing efforts to strike a harmonious balance between progress and preservation.

Pre-Contact Use and Settlement:

The Indigenous communities, particularly the hənqəminəm and Sḵwxwú7mesh, share profound ties with North Burnaby.[4] In the 1800s, qiyəplenəxʷ, a revered leader of xʷməθkʷəyəm (Musqueam), led communities in defense against the Kwakwaka’wakw yəqʷəɬteʔχ at Second Narrows, as recounted in oral histories.[5] Burrard Inlet’s shores were integral to daily life, hosting significant village sites where activities such as fishing, shellfish gathering, and sea mammal hunting unfolded with the changing seasons.[6] Strategic defensive sites, exemplified by Reed Point, underscore the region’s pivotal role.[7] This era reveals a dynamic interplay between Indigenous communities and the environment, shaping the foundational narrative of North Burnaby’s ecological history.

Wildlife Past and Present:

Once a testament to the symbiotic relationship between Indigenous communities and nature, the region’s biodiversity unfolded with bears, cougars, and abundant plant resources gracing Burnaby Mountain.[9] Burrard Inlet’s shores were once a thriving ecosystem, home to clams, sea urchins, crabs, and herring—an indispensable part of Indigenous diets.[10] Regrettably, the late 1800s brought industrialization, epitomized by Spratt’s Oilery, triggering Inlet pollution and jeopardizing traditional resources.[11] Today, the ecological balance faces persistent challenges, marked by ongoing pollution and the enduring closure of shellfish harvesting.[12] This narrative underscores the intricate connection between historical wildlife abundance and the contemporary struggles to preserve the delicate equilibrium of this ecosystem.

Early Settlement and Resource Extraction:

The latter half of the 19th century ushered in substantial upheavals as settlers encroached upon Indigenous territories, reshaping the landscape of North Burnaby.[13] Logging and industrialization, exemplified by the establishment of Spratt’s Oilery, marked a turning point, with logging roads like Curtis Street emerging and etching transformations into the contours of Burnaby Mountain.[14] The commercial allure of cascara bark, sought for its medicinal properties, contributed to overharvesting, driven by economic incentives.[15] This transition from traditional resource utilization to industrial exploitation served as a precursor to the ecological challenges that would unfold in subsequent years, as North Burnaby grappled with the repercussions of early settlement and resource extraction.[16]

Invasive Species:

As urbanization gained momentum, invasive species found a foothold in North Burnaby. The introduction of industrial developments, refineries, and transportation corridors contributed to the spread of non-native flora and fauna.[19] Invasive species pose threats to the delicate balance of the ecosystem, competing with native species for resources and altering the landscape.[20] The consequences of these incursions ripple through the generations, impacting both the environment and traditional Indigenous practices.

Urban Development:

The 20th century marked a profound transformation in North Burnaby’s identity, propelled by the post-war boom that ushered in rapid urbanization, ultimately shaping it into a thriving suburban hub.[22] The landscape underwent a metamorphosis with the emergence of subdivisions, shopping centers, and expansive infrastructure projects.[23] The construction of the freeway in 1964 stood as a symbolic testament to the community’s embrace of the burgeoning car culture.[24] Burnaby’s post-war boom unfolded with both liberal and conservative facets, evident in the growth of cultural amenities and the cultivation of a more diverse and welcoming atmosphere.[25] Nevertheless, this period of growth also brought challenges, including the displacement of traditional neighborhoods and the evolution of the economic landscape.[26] The dichotomy of progress and change became intrinsic to North Burnaby’s urban development narrative.

Stewardship Actions:

In the face of urbanization and industrialization challenges, North Burnaby’s communities exhibit unwavering commitment to stewardship, led by Indigenous groups. They initiate ongoing projects for habitat restoration, aiming to reclaim traditional resources and rejuvenate the land.[29] The 1973 establishment of the Agricultural Land Reserve in the North Arm/Big Bend area is a landmark, crucial for safeguarding essential lands.[30] Amid pollution and resource depletion, these actions symbolize resolute efforts to sustain a deep connection to the land. In navigating modern urban complexities, North Burnaby amplifies the call for environmental stewardship. The dedication to habitat restoration, preservation of agricultural lands, and revitalization of traditional practices exemplifies the community’s commitment to a sustainable future.[31] The tapestry of North Burnaby’s ecological history mirrors challenges faced and the enduring spirit of its residents in ensuring a harmonious balance between progress and preservation.

Conclusion:

The ecological history of North Burnaby unfolds as a tale of resilience, transformation, and enduring stewardship. Spanning from the pre-contact era when Indigenous communities harmoniously coexisted with nature to the contemporary challenges brought by urban development and invasive species, the landscape has undergone a perpetual evolution. The current ecological tableau carries the imprints of resource extraction and pollution, yet resonates with the unwavering determination of Indigenous communities to safeguard their rich heritage. Despite the scars left by historical disruptions, North Burnaby stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of those committed to the ongoing stewardship of the land, creating a narrative that encapsulates both the challenges faced and the profound connection to the natural world that persists through time.

Bibliography

Burnaby Village Museum Staff. “History of Burnaby Resource Guide.” https://www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca. Accessed December 10, 2023. https://www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca/EN/main/about/resources.html.

Burnaby Village Museum Staff. “Indigenous History in Burnaby Resource Guide.” https://www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca. Accessed December 10, 2023. https://www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca/EN/main/about/resources.html.

Photograph. Burnaby, n.d. City of Burnaby Archives. Accessed December 10, 2023. https://search.heritageburnaby.ca/list?q=burrard%20inlet&ps=20&objectType_facet=Photograph&sort=date_sort%20asc&p=1

[1] Burnaby Historical Society Fonds. Photograph. 1946. Burnaby, n.d. City of Burnaby Archives.

[2] Burnaby Village Museum. Photograph. 1971. Burnaby, n.d. City of Burnaby Archives.

[3] Bartel, Mario. Photograph. 2001. Burnaby, n.d. City of Burnaby Archives.

[4] Burnaby Village Museum Staff. Indigenous History in Burnaby Resource Guide.

[5] Ibid.

[6] Ibid.

[7] Ibid.

[8] Canadian Photo Company. Photograph. Burnaby, n.d. City of Burnaby Archives.

[9] Burnaby Village Museum Staff. Indigenous History in Burnaby Resource Guide.

[10] Ibid.

[11] Ibid.

[12] Ibid.

[13] Ibid.

[14] Ibid.

[15] Ibid.

[16] Ibid.

[17] Burnaby Historical Society Fonds. Photograph. 1990. Burnaby, n.d. City of Burnaby Archives.

[18] Hunting Survey Corporation Limited. Photograph. 1957 or 1958. Burnaby, n.d. City of Burnaby Archives.

[19] Burnaby Village Museum Staff. Indigenous History in Burnaby Resource Guide.

[20] Burnaby Village Museum Staff. History of Burnaby Resource Guide.

[21] Lawson, Doreen A. Photograph. 1991. Burnaby, n.d. City of Burnaby Archives.

[22] Burnaby Village Museum Staff. History of Burnaby Resource Guide.

[23] Ibid.

[24] Ibid.

[25] Ibid.

[26] Ibid.

[27] Hodge, Craig. Photograph. September 1977. Burnaby, n.d. City of Burnaby Archives.

[28] British Columbia Government Photograph. Photograph. 1955. Burnaby, n.d. City of Burnaby Archives.

[29] Burnaby Village Museum Staff. Indigenous History in Burnaby Resource Guide.

[30] Burnaby Village Museum Staff. History of Burnaby Resource Guide.

[31] Burnaby Village Museum Staff. Indigenous History in Burnaby Resource Guide.

[32] Burnaby Historical Society Fonds. Photograph. 1900. Burnaby, n.d. City of Burnaby Archives.

[33] Burnaby Historical Society Fonds. Photograph. 1970. Burnaby, n.d. City of Burnaby Archives.