| Abstract/Description or Keywords |
The development of BC Hydro dams and reservoirs in the Columbia Basin resulted in extensive inundation of small lakes, wetlands, streams, and floodplains. This extensive change in habitat resulted in direct and indirect impacts to a number of fish (and wildlife) species. Opportunities to restore and improve overall productivity have been identified in this plan for five large lake / reservoir systems: 1. Kootenay Lake 2. Duncan Reservoir 3. Arrow Lakes Reservoir 4. Revelstoke Reservoir 5. Kinbasket Reservoir. A key focus of the plan is on the nutrient restoration program for Kootenay Lake and Arrow Lakes (including seasonal nutrient additions, ongoing monitoring and adjustment). In addition, numerous research and information acquisition and monitoring actions are identified for key indicator species that include rainbow trout, kokanee, bull trout and burbot. Should sufficient resources become available, an additional set of habitat-based actions have been identified for eight other large lakes in the basin. By making investments in these large lakes, FWCP directly addresses the program’s strategic objective to maintain productive and diverse ecosystems. The investments contribute to improving the status of priority species by improving the habitats on which many of the species depend. These habitats also support a variety of consumptive and non-consumptive sustainable use activities by First Nations and the public. |
