Trees to be planted in joint First Nation and BC Energy Regulator restoration project to restore caribou habitat

BUICK, B.C. — A northeast B.C. First Nation finalized details about a new restoration project tied to a 2023 implementation agreement with the province.

Blueberry River First Nations (BRFN) and the BC Energy Regulator (BCER) have unveiled plans for its large-scale Pink Mountain Seismic Line Restoration Project, according to a press release on Wednesday, July 16th.

The project involves the restoration of 93 hectares of seismic line disturbance near the Sikanni Chief River.

BRFN identifies the area as one of “cultural significance,” which is also the homeland of southern mountain caribou herds.

Focusing on restoring habitat and connectivity between caribou herds from Chinchaga and Pink Mountain areas, the process will involve the construction of brush fences, tree planting and constructing tree piles.

Lodgepole pine, black spruce, white spruce, subalpine fir, sitka alder and speckled alder will be planted during the project, which, according to BRFN interim restoration program manager Dolly Apsassin, will employ about 20 BRFN members.

She adds that a year after the project’s completion, monitors will return to the restoration site in order to “assess the impact of the restoration activities.” However, the release did not include information about when it is expected to start or finish.  

Additionally, BRFN councillor Shelley Gauthier expressed admiration and appreciation for the announcement of the project, saying the restoration symbolizes “new beginnings.”

“Generations from now our members will be able to use this land again to practice our treaty rights,” said Gauthier. “Until that time comes, Blueberry members will be involved in caring for it.”

The project is also the recipient of the first restoration permit granted since the province delegated authority to BCER for restoration permitting for legacy energy activities in the northeast.

The project’s completion date has yet to be finalized, but BRFN is aiming for the work to be completed in the fall.