Help Protect the Coquitlam River — Use the resources below to report environmental concerns to the right authority. Each concern includes a direct link and directory to the correct reporting portal.
For spills, chemical releases, or threats to human health, call the BC Spills Hotline: 1-800-663-3456 (24 hours) or report online.
Report a Spill OnlineFrequently Reported Concerns
High
🗑️Illegal Dumping or Debris Near/In the River
Trash, organic waste that does not belong, paraphernalia, and other materials dumped on the riverbank, riparian area, or in the water. This can not only block important fish passageways but contaminate the River.
Contacts:
- Engineering and Public Works: 604-927-3500
- E-mail: epw@coquitlam.ca
- Person of Contact: Jaime Boan - General Manager
- For emergencies relating to sewer, water, environmental spills, streets or lanes, contact Public Works at 604.927.5496 (office hours) or 604.927.3111 (after hours)
- 1-877-952-7277
High
💧 Water Pollution
Oily sheen, foam, unusual color, or strong odour in the river all may indicate a spill, sewage leak, or industrial discharge.
If there is a fuel spill or other flammable/hazardous substance, call 911.
Contacts:
- 1-800-663-3456
- Email: spillreports@gov.bc.ca
- Engineering and Public Works: 604-927-3500
- E-mail: epw@coquitlam.ca
- Person of Contact: Jaime Boan - General Manager
- For emergencies relating to sewer, water, environmental spills, streets or lanes, contact Public Works at 604.927.5496 (office hours) or 604.927.3111 (after hours)
High
🐟 Fish in Distress
Dead or dying fish in the river or on its banks, may indicate disease or toxic contamination.
Contacts:
- 1-800-465-4336, or in Greater Vancouver call 604-607-4186
- E-mail: DFO.ORR-ONS.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
- 1-877-952-7277
Moderate
🌿 Invasive Plant Species
Invasive plants like Japanese knotweed, giant hogweed, and Himalayan blackberry crowd out native species along the riverbanks and can cause problems such as erosion.
Contacts:
- 250-305-1003
- E-mail: info@bcinvasives.ca
- 604-927-6300
- E-mail: parks@coquitlam.ca
- For emergencies relating to sewer, water, environmental spills, streets or lanes, contact Public Works at 604.927.5496 (office hours) or 604.927.3111 (after hours)
- For non-urgent requests or inquiries, use the Service Request form
Contact the Burke Mountain Naturalists to assist with removal in local parks.
Moderate
🏞️ Streambank Erosion or Slope Instability
Collapsing banks, exposed tree roots, or landslides near the river can degrade fish habitat.
Contacts:
- Engineering and Public Works: 604-927-3500
- E-mail: epw@coquitlam.ca
- Person of Contact: Jaime Boan - General Manager
- For emergencies relating to sewer, water, environmental spills, streets or lanes, contact Public Works at 604.927.5496 (office hours) or 604.927.3111 (after hours)
Moderate
🦌 Injured or Distressed Wildlife
Injured birds, mammals, or other wildlife in or near the watershed should be reported to the appropriate provincial agency.
Contacts:
- 250-828-2551 ext 109
- E-mail: programs@wildsafebc.com
Moderate
🐻 Bears
Bear conflict situations should be reported to the appropriate provincial agency.
Contacts:
- Contains information on the prevention of bear attractants
Additional information: Be Bear Aware
How to Make an Effective Report
If you spot a fire, smell or see smoke, call 9-1-1 immediately and report your location.
- Note the exact location (GPS or address). E.g., nearest street address, town, or water course.
- Take photos or video if it is safe to do so.
- Record the date and time of observation. If individuals, vehicles, or boats are involved, be sure to note descriptive or identifying features.
- Use the link above for your concern type.
- Keep your copy of your report reference number.
The Coquitlam River flows through Port Coquitlam and Coquitlam before entering the Fraser River. Reporting concerns falls under multiple jurisdictions — municipal, Metro Vancouver, and provincial.
If you are unsure who to contact, the BC RAPP portal is a good starting point for most environmental concerns. You can also contact the Coquitlam River Watershed Society for guidance.