Empowering Youth Through Environmental Stewardship in Surrey
The City of Surrey offers meaningful employment opportunities for students eager to contribute to environmental protection and community development. Through two leading initiatives—the Salmon Habitat Restoration Program (SHaRP) and Surrey’s Natural Areas Partnership (SNAP)—local youth can gain valuable hands-on experience in habitat restoration, community engagement, and sustainability efforts.
Salmon Habitat Restoration Program (SHaRP)
Launched in 1996, SHaRP is a longstanding city initiative focused on preserving and improving aquatic ecosystems within Surrey. From April to November, SHaRP teams are actively involved in stream restoration, public education, and habitat enhancement, with an emphasis on supporting Pacific salmon populations. Since its inception, more than 740 students have contributed to stream rehabilitation efforts across the city.
Student Opportunities
SHaRP offers seasonal employment to both high school and post-secondary students. University students can apply for full-time roles from May to August or extended terms through November. High school students, particularly those in Grades 10–12, are hired as crew members during July and August. All roles require physical stamina, strong teamwork, and effective communication skills.
Key Responsibilities
Participants take part in a wide range of activities including:
- Streamside and instream restoration
- Invasive species management and native plantings
- Water quality testing
- Agricultural stream enhancement
- Community outreach and educational presentations
- Coastal habitat enhancement
Team leader positions are also available for university students interested in managing field crews. Leadership roles include Community Education, Media & Public Relations, and Watershed Enhancement.
Community Engagement and Impact
SHaRP crews regularly engage with the public at schools, libraries, parks, and local events, raising awareness about fish habitat conservation. They also collaborate with farmers, businesses, and local volunteers to promote sustainable practices that support water quality and aquatic life.
Support and Partnerships
The program is funded by the City of Surrey and supported by organizations such as ECO Canada, NatureKids BC, and Organic Ocean Seafood. Dillon Consulting has been the program’s manager since its inception, helping to guide student involvement and project delivery.
Surrey’s Natural Areas Partnership (SNAP)
SNAP plays a vital role in enhancing and preserving Surrey’s urban forest. Focused on land-based ecosystems, the program employs post-secondary students and recent graduates throughout the summer and fall, offering real-world experience in environmental restoration and education.
Environmental Restoration and Urban Forest Care
SNAP teams work across parks and green spaces to:
- Remove invasive plant species
- Plant native trees and shrubs
- Clean up debris and yard waste
- Maintain tree wells and support biodiversity
Community Outreach
The program also emphasizes environmental education. Outreach teams engage with park visitors to discuss proper yard waste disposal, invasive species management, and ways to support local ecosystems. Their presence in public spaces fosters awareness and encourages responsible park use.
Partnerships and Funding
Managed by the Green Timbers Heritage Society, SNAP operates in collaboration with local groups such as the Sunnyside Acres Heritage Society and the White Rock and Surrey Naturalists Society. Funding support comes from the City of Surrey and the Canada Summer Jobs Program.
Building Future Environmental Leaders
Together, SHaRP and SNAP not only support Surrey’s natural environment but also provide young people with pathways into careers in sustainability, conservation, and community service. By combining on-the-ground restoration with public engagement, these programs nurture environmental stewardship while offering students professional development that lasts well beyond the summer months.
