FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Vanderhoof --- The Nechako Watershed Council (NWC) adjourned a three-day business meeting on Sunday, July 18^th, after finalizing an action plan to prepare for the Nechako Environmental Enhancement Fund (NEEF) public consultation process expected to begin in October.

Twenty-six NWC members, representing 17 of the Council’s member organizations, participated in a series of presentations, field trips and working sessions in Vanderhoof and various locations within the Nechako Watershed. The multi-interest Council discussed fisheries and agricultural issues, and also discussed a strategy for participating in the investment priorities of the Nechako Environmental Enhancement Fund.

"The action plan we approved Sunday calls for the completion of an information gathering exercise that will enhance our knowledge of issues related to the enhancement of the Nechako Watershed," said Henry Klassen, Vanderhoof and District Chamber of Commerce representative and NWC chair. "Our objective for the fall is to develop a report and a series of recommendations for NEEF that represent a consensus of the views and funding priorities of the diverse groups that comprise the Nechako Watershed Council."

In addition to the NEEF public consultation action plan, last weekend’s NWC meeting addressed agricultural and irrigation issues in the Nechako Valley. The B.C. government representative informed the NWC that four new irrigation licences were issued last month and the Province is continuing to process outstanding water license applications.

The NWC also received a presentation from the Cheslatta Carrier First Nation describing its vision for redevelopment of the Murray and Cheslatta Lakes. "Together with information we have received from the Southside Economic Development Association, we have a much clearer understanding of the needs of all people in that part of the watershed", said Klassen.

Finally, NWC members reviewed key issues surrounding resident Nechako River fish species, including trout, mountain white fish and salmon. Field activities included a canoe trip on the Nechako River, and a visit to the measuring site where Nechako River Chinook salmon are counted and studied.

"On the whole, we continue to see significant progress toward the stated objectives of the Nechako Watershed Council initiative," Klassen said.

"The degree of Cupertino, and the growth of mutual understanding among the groups that comprise our membership, is extremely gratifying. We believe that the willingness to work together is a critical first step toward protecting and enhancing the Nechako Watershed, and balancing all of the diverse stakeholder interests."

The NWC was formed in June 1998 to "enhance the long-term health and viability of the Nechako Watershed with considerations for all interests, and to provide a forum to address water management and related issues in the Watershed, and to work toward a co-operative resolution to these issues." In recognition of the diverse interests and considerable expertise represented by the NWC, the NEEF Management Committee has identified NWC as its primary consultative group.

The Nechako Environmental Enhancement Fund was established in 1997 as part of the settlement agreement between Alcan and the B.C. government. Alcan has committed $ 50 million, on a matching dollar basis on funds provided by any other party, which could include the construction of a cold water release facility at the Kenney Dam.

The next meeting of the Nechako Watershed Council will be held September 17 – 19 in Vanderhoof, and will focus on the work of the Nechako Fisheries Conservation Program. Field activities will include a visit to Chinook salmon spawning grounds on the Nechako River.

For more information, please contact:

Henry Klassen (250) 567-4254