Surrey Youth Stewardship Squad (SYSS)

Join like-minded youth from Surrey in the Stewardship Squad's many projects and activities that help the environment. Some take more elbow grease than others, but all contribute to the health and well being of our local community. The SYSS projects include work parties to remove invasive plant species (aka “weeds”), plant native species, enhance wildlife habitat, and much, much, more!

SYSS also has opportunities to appreciate our environment through fun outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, canoeing and winter sports.  SYSS members are invited to take part in these special outings for free or at greatly reduced rates.

Past Projects Include:

Native Tree and Shrub Planting - In 2007, SYSS planted almost 500 native plants, and in 2008, they have already surpassed that number! Most recently, they worked with SNAP and members of the community to install 150 plants in a creekside planting at Sullivan Park during the Releaf Tree Planting Party in October..

Invasive Plant Removal - SYSS works to control this potential problem by teaming up with SNAP, non-profit partner groups, and volunteers from the community to visit problematic areas throughout Surrey, and remove invasive plant species found there. The work results in enhanced diversity of native plant species in the area, which provides useful food and shelter for wildlife

Wildlife Habitat Enhancement - SYSS often works with SNAP's Habitat Restoration crew to create sanctuaries for vulnerable wildlife to thrive.  Most recently, SYSS kicked off a cavity nesting bird project by building and camouflaging birdhouses for chickadees, wrens, and creepers at the Surrey Nature Centre. In the future, SYSS will erect the houses, and monitor and clean them over the years to find out what critters are using them.

Find out about SYSS events by:

  • Checking the Your U-turn homepage calendar of events
  • Registering on the Your U-turn site to receive e-mail reminders of upcoming events
  • Visit this link to the City of Surrey website to find information on upcoming events

To get involved contact the City of Surrey
Environmental Stewardship Coordinator
Phone @ 604-501-5158

E-mail:

environment@surrey.ca">environment( AT )surrey.ca