January 29^th, 2025 – Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada must determine whether the proposed We Wai Kai Nation River Trail Loop is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.

To help inform this determination, Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada is inviting comments from the public respecting that determination. All comments 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 March 2^nd, 2025 to:

Marika Haspeck, Environmental Review Officer, Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities Canada

The Proposed Project

The proposed project intends to provide a safe and efficient trail system that the community can depend upon to safely travel to services and amenities that is free from motor vehicle traffic.  The proposed river loop trail will not only provide the community with easy safe walking access to key amenities and services, but will also ensure that there are natural areas protected. The objective of the trail is not just to link  the We Wai Kai Nation community to the Quinsam River and economic resources but is also intended to be enjoyed by tourists and local Campbell River residents using services offered at Quinsam Crossing.

The river loop trail is made up of a ~1.6 to 2 km gravel loop with 2 smaller trails accessing the Quinsam River. It will feature interpretive signage about local flora and fauna, traditional usage, historical information, and feature points of interest along the route.  With a variety of benches, rest areas and interpretive stops, the trail will appeal to a diverse usership with focus including mobility impaired individuals, children, and the elderly.

Based on the project specifications there is ~10,000 m² of vegetation clearing required to accommodate the new trail. The project takes place on federal lands, specifically the Quinsam No. 12 reserve. The project is not within a Migratory Bird Sanctuary, National Wildlife Area or Marine Protected Area Excavation has not been identified for this project.