| Abstract/Description or Keywords |
Water quality objectives are prepared for specific surface waters of the province, as part of the Ministry of Environment's mandate to manage water quality. They are prepared for waterbodies and water quality characteristics which may be affected by man's activities, now or in the foreseeable future. A water quality assessment and water quality objectives were prepared for the Bulkley River basin because the area would be affected by the Kemano-Completion Project. A similar report for the Nechako River basin, which would also be affected by the project, is being prepared. Both river systems are important salmon migration routes and salmon rearing areas. This report includes: (i) an assessment of present water quality using available information (up to April, 1984) on waste discharges, water quality, streamflow and water uses; (ii) a prediction of future water quality, considering future waste discharges and the effects of the Kemano-Completion Project on flows in the Morice and Bulkley Rivers; (iii) recommended water uses that should be protected, and recommended provisional water quality objectives, where applicable, to protect those uses; (iv) recommended monitoring to check whether those objectives are being met and to develop future objectives. A detailed technical appendix was prepared and forms the basis for the conclusions presented in this report. The Kemano-Completion Project has been indefinitely postponed by Alcan, which is not proceeding with its application under the governmnet review process at this time. However, the provincial government is completing its review of Alcan's proposal. |
