Shady Island
Shady Island, located on the south arm of the Fraser River near Steveston, formed as a result of the deposition of dredged materials. Over time, the substrate has stabilized and today it is one of the most significant natural areas in Richmond, supporting a combination of bottomland forest, low sand dunes and salt marsh habitats. It provides extensive critical habitat for nesting birds, including bald eagles (this is a nesting site) and a variety of waterfowl species. At low tide, large flocks of shorebirds and ducks forage throughout the year in the exposed saltmarsh vegetation. Plant species reported from Shady Island include perennial dune grass (Leymus mollis), large-headed sedge (Carex macrocephala), beach pea (Lathyrus japonicus), Scouler's willow (Salix scouleriana), and sweet gale (Myrica gale) (the only spot for this species on reported for Richmond).
The significance of this site lies in the mostly untouched nature of the habitats that have evolved. Protected by relative isolation from any extensive public disturbance, significant and rare plant communities, such as the Carex macrocephala plant community, have become well established. In addition, the very limited access that is available to the public means that numerous species of birds can nest in safety and without disturbance during the critical nesting season, and can forage in safety the remainder of the year. By maintaining this isolation, the island will continue to provide the public using the Dyke Trail immediately across the river with an exciting view of riverine habitat that approximates the feel of this area prior to European settlement. Shady Island, plays a significant role as a refuge for wildlife.
REFERENCES
Cairns, Anne, 1973. Natural History in Richmond: Richmond Nature Park Bog, Shady Island, Sturgeon Banks Tidal Marsh. Richmond, Richmond Nature Park Committee. Unpublished manuscript.
Envirocon. 1982. Assessment of two spoil disposal sies in the vicinity of Steveston Island. Prepared for Public Works Canada.
Watmough, D., 1972. "Shady Island: a natural history". Richmond: Richmond Nature Park Committee.