The project proposed is a FortisBC Energy Inc. integrity dig along the transmission pressure pipeline that runs through the Vaseux-Bighorn National Wildlife Area near Okanagan Falls, British Columbia. Pipeline integrity inspections, maintenance and upgrades are required by the British Columbia Energy Regulator (BCER) to ensure a safe and reliable energy source. The dig will include excavation of the existing pipeline and the removal and sandblasting of the coating to allow for the non-destructive testing to take place. The inspection will expose about 6.5 m of pipeline and disturb approximately 40 m². The results of the testing have one of two outcomes: (1) the integrity inspection results in minor repairs and the pipeline are recoated and then reburied; or (2) the integrity inspection fails, and the pipeline section is cutout and replaced. A cutout and replacement will require further excavation on either end to safely replace the section of pipe. Excavation for this would require approximately ten meters of additional trenching. Equipment includes an excavator, sandblaster, generator, tent and weld trucks. Topsoil will be stripped and stockpiled separately from subsoils.

FortisBC Energy Inc. has applied to Environment and Climate Change Canada for a Species at Risk Act permit under section 73(3) and a National Wildlife Area permit.