In the late 1990s, the future of Okanagan salmon appeared bleak. Indigenous salmon populations had either been completely wiped out or were at alarmingly low levels. The loss of these salmon would have significant repercussions.
What led to this decline?
In the early 1900s, extensive flooding disrupted colonization efforts. To address this, the river was straightened, narrowed, and diked. A dam was constructed to regulate the flow from Okanagan Lake into the Okanagan River, altering the riverbed from gravel—ideal for salmon nests (redds)—to larger cobbles and sand. Essential habitats such as pools, riffles, eddies, and riparian zones were destroyed, resulting in a 50% reduction in the river’s length and the loss of 90% of riparian habitat.
With the river disconnected from its floodplain, it could no longer perform its ecological functions. The construction of McIntyre and Skaha Dams in the southern Okanagan further impeded salmon migration upstream. This transformed ecosystem could no longer sustain a large salmon population.
Restoring Salmonid Passage into kłusxnitk Okanagan Lake
The main project goals are to enhance passage for indigenous salmonids throughout all migration periods, spanning from February to November, to ensure access to their historical spawning grounds. Additionally, the project aims to increase food security for all species, including humans, by fostering a sustainable and thriving ecosystem.
The Project Will:
- Build a nature-like fishway channel from Okanagan River into Okanagan Lake bypassing the Okanagan Lake Outlet Dam.
- Provide consistent velocities and depths through the fishway for all indigenous salmonids.
- Provide an adjustable invasive species migration barrier to deter invasive passage into Okanagan Lake.
- Accommodate the current needs for dam operations by the Province, operable during extreme drought and lake level fluctuations.
- Minimize maintenance and operation requirements.
- Provide a monitoring station for research purposes.
- Enhance riparian and dry land habitat for native wildlife species, including species-at-risk.
- With NO increased flood risk to infrastructure or public safety.
Timeline:
- 2025: Passage construction and revegetation
- 2025-2026: Post-construction monitoring
Okanagan Lake Dam East Salmon Passage
Okanagan Lake Dam East Salmon Passage Construction
This Project Is Supported By:
