Vaseux-Bighorn National Wildlife Area – [January 13, 2025] – Environment and Climate Change Canada and Department of Fisheries and Oceans have determined that the proposed Floodplain Re-engagement at Vaseux-Bighorn National Wildlife Area is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

This determination was based on a consideration of the following factors:

• impacts on rights of Indigenous peoples;
• Indigenous knowledge;
• community knowledge;
• comments received from the public; and
• technically and economically feasible mitigation measures.

Mitigation measures taken into account for this determination are:

• Construction work will be conducted during the time of lowest risk for migratory birds, amphibians and fish.
• An environmental monitor will conduct preliminary wildlife surveys of the entire area before construction and daily during construction.
• The proposed project may impact species at risk individuals and residences however, this impact is not expected to be significant due to the proposed mitigation measures in the Environmental Protection Plan and terms and conditions of the federal Species at Risk Act permit. Overall, it is anticipated that the project will improve critical habitat for species at risk and the impacts will be temporary and low risk.
• Wetted areas adjacent to the excavated floodplain, such as the oxbow, will be isolated from works via sediment barriers.
• The design of the proposed excavation area is flexible; opportunity exists to adjust works according to onsite requirements to accommodate wildlife needs.
• Should indigenous plants be located within the excavation footprint, they will be transplanted adjacent to the work site or stored and reared to plant after construction.
• Invasive species will be removed, sealed and taken to the landfill. 
• Bark mulch will be applied to supress invasive species
• Gravel will be added to the bottom of ponds to suppress invasive aquatic species.
• Berms and other terrestrial areas will be seeded with native grasses and plants.
• Excavated soil will stay on site to avoid spreading of invasive species.
• Equipment and vehicles will be cleaned to ensure no invasive species are spread or brought onto site.
• A fuel spill contingency plan is in place in the unlikely event of a spill.
• Absorbent mats or drip trays will be placed beneath vehicles and equipment that are parked for more than two hours to mitigate the potential for substances to enter the environment in the event of a leak
• Waste created by the proposed works will be disposed of in compliance with appropriate waste management procedures and legislation including British Columbia's Environmental Management Act.
• A fire safety and protection plan are in place.
• A cultural/archaeological monitor will be on site.

Environment and Climate Change Canada and Department of Fisheries and Oceans are satisfied that that the carrying out of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

Therefore, Okanagan Nation Alliance may carry out the project, exercise any power, perform any duty or function, or provide financial assistance to enable the project to be carried out in whole or in part.