Burrard Inlet is, for me, the defining feature of the Vancouver region.

The history of this region, from the First Nations who lived along the shores for thousands of years, to the industrial developments that have made it the largest port in Canada - is recorded in the waters and sediments of the inlet.

I have lived all over this region, but always within sight of the inlet. It gives me hope to see and hear about the efforts people in the region are making to reverse damage and reduce the pollution in the inlet, but new development measures threaten to undo recent progress.

I hope all those who live around the Burrard Inlet can recognize how special and worthy of protection it is.