In 2025, the City completed restoration work to address slope instability and erosion along a section of Thain Creek, located in the northwest corner of the City, near Delbrook Community Centre and adjacent to the District of North Vancouver. Between July and October 2025, we completed the following improvements:
- Establishing stronger creek banks - Large rocks were added to protect against future washouts and slope failures.
- Raising and reshaping the creek bed - This slows down fast-moving water during heavy rain, and helps reduce erosion.
- Creating a stepped channel with rock weirs and plunge pools - Replacing the former boulder pile and waterfall that blocked fish passage.
- Adding large woody debris and root wads - Located within the channel and along the banks to increase habitat complexity, provide cover for fish, and enhance bank stability.
Additionally, the project included removing invasive plants and planting a diverse mix of native trees, shrubs, and ferns to strengthen the banks, improve shade and habitat for fish and wildlife, and restore the natural character of the ravine. Plant species include those of cultural importance to the Squamish Nation.
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This work began after the October 2024 atmospheric river, which caused significant erosion of the creek and made the slope unstable. To protect nearby properties and prevent further erosion of the creek, the project was fast-tracked so it could be completed before the 2025 storm season.
The City worked with engineering and environmental experts, as well as the District of North Vancouver, to restore and protect Thain Creek. The project focused on fixing long-standing erosion issues along the creek and improved the area’s resiliency to extreme weather, such as heavy rainfall and flooding.
Contact Us
Engineering, Parks & Environment
Phone: 604-983-7333
Email: eng@cnv.org
