HELP SAVE A RIVER AT RISK

Here in BC there is a large push to develop so called "green" micro hydro projects. In reality they are in fact not green, destroying ecosystems and altering water flows. They are specifically threatening to those in the paddling community. Most rivers we run are not considered "navigable" under the NWPP (Navigatable Waterways Protection Program). There are slippery environmental impact assessments take place that do not seem to effect the process, making one question who's in charge of such an operation.


Long story short, right now, Skookum Creek in BC is on the chopping block. It's a paddlers paradise when it comes to classic creeking in the province. Its truly a diverse place with steep canyon walls, lush flora and pristine blue glacial water cascading over perfect vertical waterfalls. Ahhhh the pursuit of whitewater doesn't' get much better!


YOU CAN HELP! Here is how;
Email this dude, tell him why Skookum creek (or any river for that matter) is worth keeping as a resource for outdoor enthusiasts a like, aside from the obvious environmental damage. 

Brent Magee - brent.magee@tc.gc.ca – he’s the NWP Officer handling the file.

Recommend to say:

1. Building a dam does not create better kayaking conditions – the river and flow will be permanently altered to the point that it will be unnavigable for most of the year.

2.There must be recreational whitewater releases provided by the company to account for the dewatering of the creek during its historical season of navigation.

3.There must be real time gauge information publically available to account for the drastic change in the season when the creek will flow.

4.Access to the creek via the existing and to-be-constructed roads must stay open during and after the construction period.

5.“Enhancements” to the Mamquam River do not mitigate the loss of recreational use on Skookum Creek itself.

At the very least, copy and paste that list with a sentence or two and email it to the address above and if you’ve run it, say the dates you did so. Elaborate and add more if you can. It will go a long way towards keeping Skookum Creek (and others in the future) runnable. The deadline in January 4, 2011.

For mor information visit the LIQUID LORE site, google the issue or review the NWPP for yourself!

Photo by Liquid Lore - Steve Arns
Paddler - Ian

(Source; Liquid Lore)

Cheers,

AP