BC Hydro funds new CO for Site C

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A picture of two ladies, one in a flower shirt and one in a BCCOS uniform against a plain wall. — Chief Darlene Hunter of Halfway River First Nation and BC Conservation Officer Juliana Damert. (BC Hydro)

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — A new conservation officer position was created and filled to protect wildlife and the land around the Site C dam and future reservoir area.

On May 15th, BC Hydro said the position was created in partnership with local Indigenous representatives and the B.C. Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS).

The officer will be managed by the Indigenous representatives along with the BC COS and is being funded by BC Hydro through the Site C project.

The new officer, Juliana Damert, will patrol to prevent illegal poaching and fishing, respond to human-wildlife conflict and liaise with First Nation governments and local law enforcement. She will also attend community events and work with local schools.

According to BC Hydro, the new position aims to promote compliance, protect natural resources and enhance public safety through education and enforcement while considering traditional Indigenous customs.

For more information, visit BC Hydro’s website.