The Ungreening of Hastings Park
Another Hit Against Vancouver's Legendary Liveability & the So-Called Greening of Hastings Park - New Master Plan Approved
Vancouver took another hit on December 17th, 2009 against its legendary liveability. The re-greening of Hastings Park ground to a standstill, as nearly a half million square feet and $204-222 million of new, taxpayer-financed buildings were approved for installation in the parkland, replacing buildings torn down just over ten years ago.
2010 Annual General Meeting
The Hastings Park Conservancy had another successful AGM on Sunday, January 31, 2010 where the determination for a green Hasting Park was renewed by the board, members and community.
2010 Board Members:
Returning board members: Randy Chatterjee, Donalda Greenwell-Baker, Georgina Nicholson, Stacy Robertson, Bruce Wright
New board members: Patricia Miller, Mark Roxborough, Darci Swinton, Linda Young
Park Board Liaison: Aaron Jasper
$20,000 Education Grant Award
The Community Legacy Fund was created out of the agreement between the City of Vancouver and Hastings Entertainment Inc. with the installation of slots in Hastings Park, the only large green space in all of east Vancouver. The fund, managed solely by the City of Vancouver with input from community groups, is to mitigate problems arising from slots and to provide some minimal benefits to the Hastings Sunrise neighbourhood. The fund provides $100,000 per year. While that is a lot of money for someone who has to earn it, $100,000 can buy 1 (one) pedestrian-activated crosswalk.
115 Bird Species by 2010 & Counting!
The 100th Bird Celebration, held on Saturday, July 28, 2007, was attended by approximately 100 people and marked a milestone in Hastings Park. A nature walk guided by renowned naturalist Al Grass preceeded the celebration. After the speeches a delicious cake decorated with a black-headed grosbeak was served and musical entertainment was provided by talented Conservancy members. The event was a great success with a number of new members joining the Conservancy.
Education Committee and Local Schools Program
The Education Committee formed in 2007 with support and expertise from the NorthWest WildLife Preservation Society. It works with local schools to encourage the use of Hastings Park, foster environmental education, lead youth stewardship and support the long-term growth of HPC membership. Activities include nature walks in winter and spring, starting with elementary-age pupils, and then progressing into the high schools and to a growing number of local ecology clubs that serve both children and adults. For more information contact Linda Young at linyoung@telus.net.
Nature Walks
The Hastings Park Conservancy hosts free nature walks in the Sanctuary at Hastings Park.
Meet us at the north-east corner of the Sanctuary for a walk that will last about two hours, rain or shine!
115 species of birds have been identified in this peaceful urban wilderness since it was restored ten years ago. Learn about birds, plants, trees, flowers, aquatic life and more. We want you to share our amazing eastside secret.
1996 Hastings Park Restoration Plan
1996 Restoration Site Plan
In March 1995, City Council requested that the Park Board prepare plans for the "greening of Hastings Park", with the assistance of the newly-formed Hastings Park Working Committee, made up of representatives from arts and culture, sports, environment, the Track, and residents representing both local and city-wide interests.
