2016
LeGALLAIS, Maurice
Spanish Bank Streamkeepers
Maurice joined the Spanish Bank Streamkeepers Group in 2001, about a year after it had been set up to work on Spanish Bank Creek. In addition to becoming its Treasurer, Maurice took on the job of streamkeeping in the upper watershed of the Creek. By that time Ron Gruber was well established in the lower watershed (from Chancellor north to tidewater). Maurice's first job was to map the upper watershed. He then arranged for the storm drains to be marked with fish decals in the two residential areas that lay inside the watershed. And finally he contacted the University Golf Course to make them aware that chemicals applied to the golf course could wash into the Creek and harm the resident salmon.
Eventually Maurice and Ron began exploring the lower reaches of the Creek together. Ron shared his knowledge with school children when they released Chum fry to the Creek, and with UBC students, and with a large group of followers who used the footpath north of Marine Drive. Maurice on the other hand learned to use a video camera and sat for hours recording life in and around the Creek. His knowledge will be passed on through his videos, a wonderful and lasting legacy.