Dear Editor: Re: Site C puts wildlife at great risk, In My Opinion, Bill Brassington, The Record, Aug. 2. I am writing to clarify some statements recently made in a column about the Site C clean energy project.
As part of the environmental assessment process for Site C, B.C. Hydro has assessed the project effects on the environment, fish, wildlife and vegetation, and has proposed mitigation measures to avoid or mitigate adverse effects.
B.C. Hydro's studies have found that the composition of fish will change with the creation of the Site C reservoir. Studies show the reservoir would create a new and productive aquatic ecosystem of equal or greater size than the existing environment. Arctic Grayling, bull trout and mountain whitefish would continue to be present in Peace River tributaries and downstream of the reservoir and may persist in the reservoir.
Site C would not impact caribou or grizzly bear populations.
It is also important to note that Site C would produce among the lowest greenhouse gas emissions, per gigawatt hour, compared to other electricity generation options.
In addition, the Site C project has been designed to meet all current seismic, safety and environmental guidelines.
The British Columbia Utilities Commission reviewed Site C in the early 1980s and concluded that the project was acceptable but felt more information was needed on load and alternatives. The commission wrote, "Provided that appropriate conditions are placed on Hydro and that the government responds to the special needs created in the region, the impacts can be successfully and acceptably managed."
Site C is currently undergoing a federalprovincial environmental assessment process. The project requires environmental certification and other regulatory permits and approvals before it can proceed to construction. In addition, the Crown has a duty to consult and, where appropriate, accommodate Aboriginal groups.
If approved, Site C would provide clean, renewable and cost-effective electricity in B.C. for more than 100 years.
More information about Site C is available at: bchydro.com/sitec.
Dave Conway, Dave Conway, community relations manager,
Site C, B.C. Hydro
