Experience the Fraser (ETF) is a unique vision to connect communities, parks, natural features, historic and cultural sites and experiences along the Lower Fraser River.  The Canyon to Coast Trail and Recreational Blueway are the backbone of the project, connecting Hope to the Salish Sea by means of over 550 kilometres of trail (43% of which is already in place) via the river itself.

By bringing together existing points of interest and features along the river, ETF will add strength and dynamism to local tourism and economic development initiatives, acting as a catalyst.  The hope is for all to be inspired to become more active stewards on behalf of the river, and for the Lower Fraser River to become one of the world's great river destinations.

Concept Plan

Over the past two years, the ETF team has worked with Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley Regional District, the Province, First Nations, federal agencies, municipalities, non-government organizations, interest groups and other motivated citizens to develop the ETF Concept Plan.

The plan lays out the framework to support the proposed "Canyon to Coast Trail and Blueway", creating an experiential journey along the Lower Fraser River where stories will be revealed about the river's ecology, people, history, communities and industry.  Existing recreational, cultural and interpretive attractions and points of interest are captured as "amenity and feature points" and a series of community nodes and portals serve as additional destinations.  The Concept Plan also presents a Foundational Program that once completed will serve to define an Experience the Fraser identity and brand.

• ETF Concept Plan
• ETF Concept Plan Map

The ETF Concept Plan was endorsed in principle by both Regional District Boards in October 2011.

• Fraser Valley Regional District Board Report
• Metro Vancouver's Board Report

Project Area (click here for a printable map)

Project History

In 2009 the Province of BC provided the Fraser Valley Regional District and Metro Vancouver with $2.5 million to develop a comprehensive Concept Plan by fall 2011 and to implement two demonstration projects.  Three years later, the Province funded both Regional District another $1 million to advance implementation.  These funds will help each Regional District open new parkland, improve river access and park amenities along the river and continue to build the "Canyon to Coast" Trail.

• Provincial Project Announcement - April 9, 2009
• Provincial Funding Accouncement - April 9, 2012

Demonstration Projects

             
The Fraser Valley Regional District has partnered with the District of Mission to develop its demonstration project which features a trail segment and a gathering place (Spirit Square) along the Mission waterfront.  Metro Vancouver has partnered with the Township of Langley to develop a demonstration project consisting of a trail connecting the Golden Ears Bridge, through Derby Reach Regional Park and via the Fort to Fort trail, to Historic Fort Langley.

• Mission Demonstration Project Profile
• Derby Reach Demonstration Project Profile

Next Steps

The Vision for Experience the Fraser will take many years to bring to fruition, and will involve many partners including the Fraser Valley Regional District, Metro Vancouver, the Province, First Nations, municipalities, other agencies, the private sector, and motivated community groups and citizens.

ETF's success depends on shared commitment to implement the Vision and strong partnerships.  The ETF team is now working on an Implementation Plan to be completed by fall 2012 that will address:

• what partners will be at the table for implementation;
• how governance and financing will function;
• options for resilient resourcing;
• branding and marketing;
• strong communications and public outreach; and
• collaborative solutions to cross-jurisdictional obstacles (e.g. best practices for recreational dyke access, roads and bridges, and recreation interfaces with agriculture and industry).

The ETF team looks forward to continued dialogue with stakeholders interested in assisting to help shape the future of the project by providing feedback on the ETF Concept Plan, building partnerships, and advancing implementation strategies.