DNV considers setting up a Designated Anchorage Area in Deep Cove

District of North Vancouver is exploring the potential to set up a Designated Anchorage Area (DAA) in response to concerns expressed over long-term boat anchorage in Deep Cove.

According to a recent staff report, concerns about anchored vessels have been voiced for decades. The primary concerns have focused on long-term anchorage, live-aboards and derelict boats, although some of the issues equally apply to short-term anchorage in certain circumstances.

The report is in response to requests from certain councillors and residents that the District take action to resolve these issues.

To help residents learn more about how a DAA would work and share feedback, the district is hosting a community information session on October 2 at 6:30 pm at Seycove Secondary School cafeteria on 1204 Caledonia Avenue.

The DAA would allow the district to restrict the number of anchorages, designate specific locations, and limit the amount of time boats could remain anchored in Deep Cove.

Concerns about anchored vessels in Deep Cove include:

Environmental impacts from spills and waste from the boats.

The potential for boats to break free from anchorage and either beach or damage other vessels and infrastructure, such as docks.

The costs associated with seizing and disposing of derelict and abandoned boats (tens of thousands of dollars depending on the size of the boat).

Recreational impacts, as space in a cove or inlet is compromised by increasing numbers of anchored boats (particularly in the summer months).

Objections from waterfront residents about the aesthetics of boats in an unmanaged anchorage area (there are often economic reasons for owners to take advantage of long-term anchorage which is evident by the value, appearance or lack of maintenance).

If you are unable to attend the community information session, you can provide feedback online here.

Read the staff report to council about the Deep Cove anchorage area here.