Public Notice

Sq'éwlets Cultural and Recreational Multi-use Trail Project - Public Comments Invited

 

Proponent: Sq'éwlets First Nation

January 15, 2024 - Infrastructure Canada must determine whether the proposed Sq'éwlets Cultural and Recreational Multi-use Trail Project, located near Lake Errock, British Columbia, is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

To help inform this determination, Infrastructure Canada is inviting comments from the public respecting that determination. All comments received will be considered public. For more information, individuals should consult the Privacy Notice on the Registry website

https://iaac-aeic.gc.ca/050/evaluations/Protection?culture=en-CA).

Written comments must be submitted by February 14, 2024 to:

Camryn O'Keeffe, Environmental Review Officer, Infrastructure Canada (camryn.okeeffe@infc.gc.ca)

The Proposed Project

The proposed project is the construction of a new multiuse pathway and recreational trail for the Sq'éwlets First Nation. Project works include:

• New multiuse pathway and recreational trail (~770 m)
• Signage and trial markers
• Greenery, trees, and landscaping
• Construction of benches (2)
• Paving of asphalt and gravel
• Drainage culverts

The project is on federal lands, the Squawkum Creek No.3 Indian Reserve land. The project is not within a Migratory Bird Sanctuary, National Wildlife area or Marine Protected Area. The proposed project will require vegetation clearing and excavation on undeveloped land.

This trail segment will be the first phase of a comprehensive trail network connecting this community. The trail will connect to an upper viewpoint overlooking Harrison Bay. The intent of the trail is to improve access to important cultural spaces, such as the Sq'éwlets cemetery, a place of great community and cultural significance for community members, while also providing a trail that can serve recreation, mental and physical health, and economic development needs (due to its proximity to Squawkum Park and RV Campground).