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Location: Fraser Valley, Chilliwack, BC Project Summary
The Soowahlie Band will be examining the source of upwelling water in Sweltzer Creek, which is the outlet between Cultus Lake and Chilliwack River, and the location from which local Sockeye salmon gain access to the lake. Salmon migration into Cultus Lake typically begins in early August and ends mid-December; however, migration into the lake has become progressively earlier, exposing salmon to higher than normal spawning temperatures. Upwelling groundwater identified on band property may be able to be effectively diverted to reduce ambient water temperatures in Sweltzer Creek during critical months of migration. The Soowahlie will be examining the source of this upwelling water with the intent of lowering temperatures in Sweltzer Creek. As part of the project, Swelter Creek and off-channel habitat will be assessed and classified for habitat quality and rearing and spawning potential. The project will present preliminary designs and recommendations with respect to groundwater diversion and prescriptions for in-stream and off-channel habitat creation and enhancement. Cooler upwelling groundwater would be used to lower ambient water temperatures in Sweltzer Creek. This combined with habitat creation and enhancement initiatives would provide benefits to fish health, spawning, rearing, habitat quality and water quality. Exposure to increased temperatures increases metabolic rates and the growth of bacteria and fungi, reduces reproductive hormone synthesis and the energy available for migration and reproduction, decreases swimming performance and delays gonadal maturation, all of which can contribute to increased pre-spawning mortality and reduced spawning success. Habitat creation for spawning will provide an additional benefit for salmon, as the Cultus watershed has been damaged by heavy recreational, residential and agricultural development. This project will also provide enhanced ecological value to Soowahlie band land, increased salmon populations as a cultural benefit, and allow Soowahlie band members to work directly in field assessments, community meetings and participate in design review and reports. This project will lead to improvements in the Cultus watershed and its salmon population, as well as community health and aesthetics. |
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