Vernon Creek in Polson Park follwoing the second phase of the naturalization project (photo by Liam Verster / Vernon Matters)

By Liam Verster

Creek Naturalization Completed

Vernon Creek Naturalization already seeing drainage benefits: Mayor Cumming

Dec 16, 2025 | 12:09 PM

The Vernon Creek Naturalization project has wrapped up and is already seeing some benefits.

That’s according to Mayor Victor Cumming.

“I know some people continue to tell me it was a mistake that we made, but i’s a very important improvement for the aquatic ecosystem, that’s one, and two it’s already making a significant difference on drainage for both Polson Park and the stuff that’s creeping off of what we would call Hospital Hill,” Cumming told Vernon Matters.

“So a significant environment improvement already, and boy it will be a significant improvement for the fish.”

City council will receive a full report on the project in the new year.

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The second and final phase of the work in the creek was done between July and November in alignment with Fisheries and Oceans Canada regulations regarding working in waterways.

The project aimed to improve drainage and reduce flood risks at the park, improve fish habitats, and improve the natural ecosystem.

With the work completed, the park has fully reopened for public use.