Restoration work on Saanich’s Gabo Creek is already paying off, with nearly 270 young coho salmon counted in the area this year, compared to none last year.
Saanich, in partnership with Peninsula Streams & Shorelines, completed a major restoration project in August, adding 170 metres of restored creek habitat on top of work done last summer.
The effort included clearing sediment, adding spawning gravel, anchoring logs and stumps, placing natural rock for bank protection, and removing debris to restore natural flow.
“It’s been so incredible to witness such an increase in coho salmon using Gabo Creek, and to see the dedication and collaboration that staff and the community have put into bringing this important salmon habitat back,” said Alix Link, Saanich manager of natural areas.
Gabo Creek serves as a critical nursery for coho salmon fry and coastal cutthroat trout, offering slow-moving water and shaded pools that shelter fish during hot summers and high winter flows.
Urbanization and sediment buildup had previously degraded much of the habitat.
Monitoring after the restoration also found 35 cutthroat trout alongside the 270 coho fry. Katrina Adams, senior aquatic biologist with Peninsula Streams & Shorelines, called the results “proof that long-term, collaborative restoration works.”
The district will continue monitoring salmon numbers and habitat health. Community members can participate in fall planting events to restore native plants and trees along the creek’s banks. Event details will be posted on Saanich’s events calendar.
