The Town of Gibsons is currently working on reviewing and updating the Geotechnical Hazards Development Permit Area (DAP 1) and the Environmentally Sensitive Areas Development Permit Area (DPA 2) in order to protect development from hazardous areas and protect environmentally sensitive areas from development.
Geotechnical hazards Development Permit Area (DPA 1)
During the weeks of April 24 and May 1, Professional Engineers and Geoscientists will carry out visual assessments on properties that have been identified to have the potential for low and high geotechnical hazards. Property owners who will be affected have been notified.
Environmentally Sensitive Areas Development Permit Area (DPA 2)
The Town of Gibsons is also working on updating the Environmentally Sensitive Areas Development Permit Area in order to protect environmentally sensitive areas from development within the Town.
This process involves accurately mapping all environmentally sensitive areas by combining existing spatial data with LiDAR (light detection and ranging technology) to identify different forest types and watercourses in Gibsons.
Professional Biologists will also be conducting field assessments on both private and public lands to gather data and create a complete understanding of natural areas. The field assessments will take place during the week of April 24th.
The data collected may include:
- Habitat type
- Stand structural stage
- Tree species composition
- The average and maximum tree height
- The average and maximum tree diameter
- Crown closure
- Stand health concerns
- Condition
- Soil texture
- Soil depth
- Soil nutrients and moisture
- Forest site series
- Dominant vegetation
- Wildlife habitat features
- Species and ecosystems at risk
- Restoration opportunities
- Stream width, depth and composition
- Fish habitat
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Town of Gibsons at 604-886-2274 or email planning@gibsons.ca.
