Improving Murphy Creek Spawning Channel
By Contributor
The Fish & Wildlife Compensation Program (FWCP) is funding a project that will restore the intakes at Murphy Creek Spawning Channel, just north of Trail. The channel provides prime spawning habitat for Rainbow Trout.
Led by the Trail Wildlife Association, in partnership with Okanagan Nation Alliance, Teck, and Birchbank Golf Club, the project is one of 38 FWCP-funded projects in the Columbia Region of British Columbia in 2019—2020, for a total value of approximately $5.8 million.
During the 2018 spring freshet, very high flows resulted in the displacement of several large boulders, which led to erosion and undercutting around the intakes. The planned restoration work is urgently needed to avoid further erosion, and to ensure there are sufficient flows entering the spawning channel.
Like all FWCP-funded projects, this project was approved by the Regional Board and aligns with the region’s Action Plans, which identify priorities and projects eligible for FWCP funding.
The FWCP is a partnership between BC Hydro, the Province of B.C., Fisheries & Oceans Canada, First Nations, and Public Stakeholders to conserve and enhance fish and wildlife in watersheds impacted by BC Hydro dams. BC Hydro funds the FWCP annually in order to fulfill its applicable water licence obligations, and the FWCP directs those funds toward priority actions to fulfill its mission.
Across its Columbia, Coastal, and Peace Regions, the FWCP has approved approximately $9.2 million for 97 projects. Learn more about FWCP projects, results, and how to apply for a grant at fwcp.ca.
