CPC

WETLAND AND WILDLIFE HABITAT CONSTRUCTION

COMMITMENT TO THE ENVIRONMENT

Throughout construction of the Arrow Lakes Generating Station, there was minimal river sedimentation and impact to aquatic habitat, reflecting CPC's and CBT's commitment to environmental responsibility. During construction of the intake channel, soil from the excavation was placed in an area located immediately upstream of the ALGS intake channel, as well as in an area adjacent to nearby Rialto Road. Once construction was completed in 2002, the contractor was committed to rehabilitating this 7.4 hectare soil disposal area.

During rehabilitation, native shrubs and grasses were planted, and wildlife habitat was created by creating mounds of large, woody debris, rock, and soil. A 1.4 hectare wetland area was also formed around a large pond that was constructed and fed by Rialto Creek.

Because the heavily compacted soil was deficient in organic matter and other associated nutrients, the original plantings were not as successful as originally hoped. CPC was determined to improve the biological productivity of this important wildlife habitat.. During the fall of 2006, the soil was decompacted and nutrient rich biosolids were added. Biosolids provided the perfect organic addition to the dry, and nutrient deficient soil.

As the biosolids were spread out and eventually tilled into the top 30 cm of soil, mounds and swales were also constructed. The mounds provide a loose, deep water retentive rooting zone for shrubs and trees to establish. The swales and depressions left by the creation of the mounds are beneficial because they also retain water and provide habitat for amphibians and reptiles. The construction of mounds and swales are also important because this slightly hilly topography creates shade, acts as a windbreak, and gives wildlife a place to find shelter.

Large, woody debris was placed in piles over a six hectare site, providing shelter for birds and other small animals. The entire area was planted with drought tolerant grasses and legumes, as well as wildflowers, and nitrogen-fixing plants such as lupins. Five thousand mature trees and shrubs were planted, including pine, fir, Saskatoon berries and sage brush.

Columbia Power Corporation and Columbia Basin Trust are pleased with the success to date of the rehabilitation project. In addition to the fact that the area has greened up considerably, elk, deer, coyotes, marmots and many species of birds have been spotted utilizing the area.