With funding from the FWCP and other partners, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) has replaced a hanging culvert with an 18-metre-long, clear span bridge near Fauquier. The project has resulted in approximately 250 metres of additional stream habitat, where Kokanee were observed spawning last fall – the first time in 35 years!

The culvert carrying Heart Creek under Highway 6 had been badly undercut from scouring during freshet in recent years, creating a major fish barrier and making spawning upstream of the culvert almost impossible.

Bridge construction started in May 2015 and was completed in November. Further work is planned, dependent on funding, in the next couple of years to remove all the remaining man-made barriers on the creek. This work will result in access to an additional 1.2 kilometres of stream habitat for kokanee and others species.

“This was a great project as it provided access to valuable fish habitat and engaged local stakeholder groups,” says FWCP Columbia Region Manager, Crystal Klym. “Sharing the costs between the partners made it possible, and to see Kokanee spawn there so soon is extremely rewarding.”

These improvements were also funded by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ Regional Fisheries Conservation Partnership Program, with support from the Nakusp Rod and Gun Club.

FWCP Financial Contribution to this Project in 2015-2016: $175,000