| Abstract/Description or Keywords |
The development of BC Hydro dams and reservoirs in the Columbia Basin resulted in the inundation of over 1,050 km of stream habitat (primarily valley-bottom, low gradient). The larger reservoirs that have taken their place are fundamentally different than natural stream habitat, resulting in direct and indirect impacts to a number of fish and wildlife species. Opportunities to undertake habitat-based actions (e.g., bank stabilization) or land securement have been identified for a set of streams in the basin, including: 1. Salmo River 2. Columbia River downstream of Keenleyside Dam 3. Slocan River 4. Alkolkolex River 5. Flathead River 6. Kootenay River mainstem downstream of Kootenay Lake 7. Kootenay River mainstem upstream of Kootenay Lake 8. Goat River 9. Palliser River 10. White River 11. Bull River 12. Elk River 13. Wigwam River 14. St. Mary River 15. Skookumchuck Creek. Importantly, this action plan also identifies the need to undertake additional baseline inventories, evaluations and planning to refine the target streams in the basin that offer the best opportunity for restoration or enhancement actions. By making investments in these streams, 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. |
