Vancity Walks Field Guide Projects Purpose The purpose of this field guide is to change the relationship between how humans interact with nature in an urban environment. In this case, that environment would be Hastings street, as it stretches through various different connecting urban environments. This field guide will give some examples of the various forms of nature found along Hastings, and perhaps challenge the way we think about the world around us. The species included within the field guide were chosen as examples of only some of the species one would find on a stroll down the streets of Burnaby.
Characteristics of the Urban Environment The characteristics of the urban environment, such as the one along Hastings, would include a significant amount of concrete, from apartment complexes to paved roads and sidewalks. As well as this, one would notice while strolling down the streets of Burnaby the unfortunate amount of garbage, varying from plastic bags, candy wrappers, water bottles and cigarettes. These characteristics are commonly found in both the industrial side of Burnaby, specifically East Hastings, as well as the suburban side, which would include North Burnaby.
Species Found Within the Environment We are not the only individuals inhabiting Hastings street, for there are many other species who make this urban environment their home. Within this field guide, one will find information on a select few of the many species co-inhabiting this area of the world. The species include: Thistle, Dandelion, Quackgrass, Cherry Tree, European Maple Tree, Crow and Squirrel.