BC Hydro will be bringing in gravel material from Jan. 8-10, to fill in a low-lying area near the Puntledsge River鈥檚 edge at Bear James Park.

The enhancement work is being done to prevent fish from entering the area and getting stranded when Puntledge River flows move downward from high-flow events. The construction work will be noticeable, though will have a limited impact on park users.

鈥淲e typically increase water flows (up to) threefold below the Comox Dam for flood risk management and reservoir level control as a result of storms or snowmelt in the spring,鈥� said Stephen Watson, BC Hydro spokesperson. 鈥淪ome salmon fry mortalities were reported last May by a member of the public, within a small area within James Bear Park, to Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

鈥淒iscussions ensued and monitoring began to determine the flow rate that may be causing the issue. It turned out to be about double the typical flow rate within the river and a plan was developed to remove the risk and protect small fish 鈥� mainly salmon fry or smolts.鈥�

Fry and smolts tend to stay away from the main river channel and seek comfort near the edges of the river where there鈥檚 little water flow. They can be susceptible to stranding within isolated pools when flows are reduced.

鈥淲e wanted to get this work done by the end of January as that鈥檚 when salmon fry may begin to emerge,鈥� said Watson. 鈥淲e really appreciate the co-ordination with the City of Courtenay to allow us to access the area, and keep the park trails open outside of the occasion short duration closure.鈥�

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