Critical ecosystems throughout British Columbia will be safer and better protected, thanks to $1 million provincial funding for a new partnership led by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF).
The investment is to support a provincewide assessment of water infrastructure located in areas that support fish, wildlife and ecosystems.
Information gathered with help guide investments that are expected to improve public safety, fish and wildlife habitat and community resilience.
“Healthy ecosystems are critical to protecting fish and wildlife habitat, while supporting the communities and people who enjoy these spaces,” said Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship.
“This work will help us better understand the condition of water-control structures so we can make informed decisions, and prioritize future improvements that protect and enhance the environment and recreational opportunities that people in B.C. rely on.”
A shared database will be created to identify infrastructure such as small dams, dikes and water-control structures. It will track infrastructure condition and safety risks, while considering ecological, cultural and community needs associated with each site.
“This funding represents a significant investment in the future of B.C.’s wetlands, small lakes and critical aquatic habitats,” said Dan Buffett, chief executive officer of HCTF.
“By bringing together people, infrastructure and knowledge, HCTF and its partners, including the Province and Ducks Unlimited Canada, will collect the information and create the tools needed to better manage water resources on our conservation lands, inform decision-making and enhance the conservation of freshwater fish, wildlife and their habitats for generations to come.”
Role of conservation lands
Conservation lands protect important fish and wildlife habitat while allowing public access for activities such as angling, hunting, wildlife viewing, day hiking, research and Indigenous traditional use. They are also part of B.C.’s natural infrastructure network. Wetlands, floodplains and managed water-storage areas help hold water on the landscape, reduce flood peaks, lessen drought impacts and strengthen watershed resilience, while supporting biodiversity.
Inventory and future upgrades
The initiative is expected to create the first co-ordinated inventory and assessment of water-control structures in these areas. This will help government and conservation partners better understand infrastructure needs and prioritize future upgrades. Specific improvement projects have not yet been chosen, but the assessments will help identify where future investments can deliver the greatest benefits.
Evidence-based decision-making
The work will support evidence-based decisions that protect regionally and internationally significant fish and wildlife habitat, while also recognizing recreation and cultural needs.
Broader provincial goals
The investment is part of the Province’s ongoing work to protect biodiversity, improve climate resilience and strengthen ecosystem services that provide environmental, cultural and recreational benefits for people throughout B.C.
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