September 2023: The Upper Nimpkish area for conservation

In addition to the proposed Lower Nimpkish area for conservation, the Gwa’ni Project is proposing the creation of a second conserved area. The proposed Upper Nimpkish area for conservation spans 880 hectares.

Here is more of what you need to know:

Ecological restoration

• The proposed Upper Nimpkish area for conservation includes many important areas including the mouth of the Yookwa River, which used to be a vital spawning ground for sockeye salmon. In part due to previous logging practices, the river has suffered substantial damage, disrupting its natural processes. In order for nature to restore itself, it will take time. The proposed Upper Nimpkish area for conservation aims to allow for that to occur.
• The Upper Nimpkish Conserved Area will contribute to stabilizing the existing 15-hectare Nimpkish River Ecological Reserve and its unique biodiversity
• The Upper Nimpkish Conserved Area will support:
  1. Key brood stock collection sites for the Gwa'ni Hatchery
  2. Salmon habitat restoration sites
  3. Protection of bear and bird species habitats

Recreation

• Accessible by road, the Upper Nimpkish conserved area connects to the road to Gold River, and routes to Woss
• The Vernon Lake campsite is also included in the proposed area

Have any more questions? Email Brian Svanvik at Brian.Svanvik@namgis.bc.ca in the Natural Resources Department and learn more about the conserved areas and more!