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.
Restoring Connectivity
This project is designed to restore and enhance ecological connectivity between the Okanagan River and Okanagan Lake by creating a functional, nature-like fishway that re-establishes the movement of native aquatic and terrestrial species across a previously fragmented system. The project will:
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Reconnects Okanagan River and Okanagan Lake with a nature-like fishway bypassing the Okanagan Lake Outlet Dam.
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Restores natural movement for Indigenous salmonids with consistent depths and velocities.
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Includes an adjustable barrier to deter invasive species from entering Okanagan Lake.
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Integrates seamlessly with provincial dam operations, even during drought and lake-level fluctuations.
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Designed for low maintenance and long-term operational efficiency.
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Provides a monitoring station to support research and adaptive management.
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Enhances riparian and dryland habitat for native wildlife, including species-at-risk.
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Achieves all connectivity goals with no increased flood risk to infrastructure or public safety.
kłusxnitk Okanagan Lake Dam Passage in the News!
IndigiNews:
Okanagan fish passage, blocked for decades, set to be re-opened
Times Chronicle:
After 100 years salmon can finally return to Okanagan Lake – TimesChronicle.ca
Today in BC:
Newly opened salmon passage ends 100-year barrier to Okanagan Lake – Today in BC
Global News:
Fish passage opens at Okanagan Lake Dam | Watch News Videos Online
Castanet:
Salmon reaching Okanagan Lake unfettered for first time in a century – Castanet.net