September
Mountain Pine Beetle Infestation: Coarse Woody Debris and Impacts on Furbearers
Mountain Pine Beetle Infestation: Hydrological Impacts
August
Community Energy & Emissions Inventory: Secondary Indicators for Community Inventory Interpretation
Posted Aug. 4, 2008
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/climate/ceei/secondary_indicators.pdf
The province has set a target to reduce provincial greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 33% by 2020 from 2007 levels. Local governments will play a role in meeting this target through their municipal mandates.
The province is developing a data storage and reporting system (the "Community Energy and Emissions Inventory – CEEI) to support local governments with their commitments. This will provide data to communities for understanding the magnitude of their consumption and emissions.
July
Recovery Strategy for the Mexican Mosquito Fern (Azolla mexicana)
in British Columbia
Posted July 24, 2008
http://a100.gov.bc.ca/pub/eirs/viewDocumentDetail.do?fromStatic=true&repository=BDP&documentId=7979
Mexican mosquito fern (Azolla mexicana) is a tropical to subtropical species of floating aquatic fern that can form thick extensive mats in lakes, ponds, ditches, and quiet areas of streams. It is found globally in North, Central, and South America, and reaches the northern limit of its range in south-central British Columbia. This recovery strategy represents the best available scientific knowledge on what is required to achieve recovery of the Mexican Mosquito Fern. It outlines what is and what is not known about the species, identifies threats, and describes what should be done to mitigate those threats. The recovery goal for Mexican mosquito fern is to protect and maintain extant populations, and to re-introduce the species at extirpated sites, if deemed necessary.
Emissions from Wood-Fired Combustion Equipment
Posted July 11, 2008
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/industrial/pulp_paper_lumber/wood_fired.htm
The B.C. Energy Plan identifies biomass as a potential energy source as part of a clean, renewable energy future.
Early in 2008, the Ministry of Environment undertook to review guidelines for emission standards in anticipation of new biomass-fired combustion electricity projects under the BC Hydro call for new biomass-fired power projects.
B.C.'s Ocean Economy: link to our past, bridge to our future
Posted July 10, 2008
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/omfd/reports/BCs-Ocean-Economy.pdf
[PDF 1.16MB]
Summary of the Economic Contribution of the Oceans Sector in British Columbia study released in April 2007. Key findings focused on the market value of marine-based activities and other "non-market" benefits. Results are presented as a means to better comprehend the importance and significance of ocean economy at all levels of government, First Nations, key stakeholders and the public at large.
Multi-species Recovery Strategy for the Princeton Landscape, Including Dwarf Woolly-heads (Psilocarphus brevissimus var. brevissimus), Slender Collomia (Collomia tenella), and Stoloniferous Pussytoes (Antennaria flagellaris) in British Columbia
Posted July 4, 2008
http://a100.gov.bc.ca/pub/eirs/viewDocumentDetail.do?fromStatic=true&repository=BDP&documentId=7921 [PDF 478KB]
This multi-species recovery strategy has been developed to guide the recovery of plant species at risk that occur in a landscape south of Princeton, B.C. The target species are at risk due to a number of broad categories of threats such as habitat loss or degradation, invasive alien species, changes in ecological dynamics or natural processes, and disturbance. Main concerns are from resource extraction, habitat degradation from recreation and cattle grazing, invasive alien species, and biological factors including demography and genetics. The recovery of the three target species at risk is considered technically and biologically feasible. Broad strategies to address the threats and meet the recovery objectives include communication and outreach, habitat protection and stewardship, site management, inventory, monitoring, scientific research, and population enhancement, recreation. An action plan will be drafted by April 2011.
June
Literature review of impacts of glyphosate herbicide on amphibians: What risks can the silvicultural use of this herbicide pose for amphibians in B.C.?
Posted June 27, 2008
http://a100.gov.bc.ca/pub/eirs/viewDocumentDetail.do?fromStatic=true&repository=BDP&documentId=7884
Glyphosate herbicides are the most widely used non-selective broad-spectrum herbicides in the world. In Canada they are extensively used in forestry for site preparation and for conifer release. Recent studies have shown that amphibians are one of the most sensitive vertebrate groups to the toxicological effects of this herbicide (formulated product including surfactant). This report summarizes current literature on the non-target impacts of glyphosate herbicides on amphibians, combines reviews of published studies with a review of the application guidelines and the use patterns of this herbicide in silviculture in BC,and identifies knowledge gaps in the assessment of herbicide impacts on native amphibians in this province.
May
Duck Lake Environmental Assessment
Posted May 9, 2008
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/kor/epd/pdf/duck_lake.pdf
In 2003, the Ministry of Environment undertook a preliminary study to assess the environmental health of Duck Lake, located near an agricultural area just outside Creston B.C. The study involved a thorough one-time sampling effort, analyzing water and sediment samples for variables such as nutrients, agricultural pesticides, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, among others.
B.C. Expands Program to Scrap Inefficient Vehicles
Posted May 7, 2008
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/vehicle/sip.html
The Province is investing $15 million to enhance and expand the successful Scrap-It program across British Columbia, providing strong incentives to take old vehicles with higher greenhouse gas emissions off the road.
April
Summary of Public Comment: Provincial Ambient Air Quality Criteria for PM2.5 Ministry Intentions Paper
Posted April 25, 2008
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/aq_criteria_pm25/pm25criteria_summary.pdf
The Ministry of Environment intends to establish provincial ambient-air-quality criteria for PM
2.5. A key part of this process is stakeholder consultation, based on an intentions paper released in January 2008. This report summarizes the stakeholder submissions. A final decision on the proposed criteria is expected later this year.
Establishing a Visibility Goal for Wilderness and Urban Areas in British Columbia and Canada
Canada-British Columbia Water Quality Monitoring Agreement – Water Quality Assessment of Kootenay River Near Fenwick (1984-2005)
Canada-British Columbia Water Quality Monitoring Agreement – Water Quality Assessment of Kootenay River at Creston (1979-2005)
B.C. Community Energy and Emissions Inventory Reports
Posted April 17, 2008
The B.C. Community Energy and Emissions Inventory (CEEI) initiative is being undertaken to provide community energy- and greenhouse-gas-inventory reports for all B.C. local governments. These inventories will help municipalities plan and implement effective strategies for managing greenhouse gas emissions and energy use. Here are the first three CEEI reports:
Guide to the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation (OBSCR) brochure
March
British Columbia Network Assessment Analysis Results
Posted March 12, 2008
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/bc_network_assessment.pdf
This report reviews the Ministry of Environment's air-quality-monitoring network. The review will help the ministry develop a strategy to optimize its air monitoring network – to achieve the best possible scientific value; cost-effectively protect the public and environment; and meet federal, provincial and community air-quality goals.
British Columbia Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector Report, 2007 Edition
Posted March 3, 2008
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/omfd/reports/BC-Fisheries-Aquaculture-Sector-2007.pdf
The publication (produced by BCStats) provides an overview of all four components of the province's fisheries and aquaculture sector, which includes the following industries:
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Commercial fisheries;
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Aquaculture (fish and shellfish farming);
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Fish processing; and
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Sport fisheries (freshwater and saltwater)
The document includes estimates of gross domestic product (GDP), revenue, employment and earnings in the province's fisheries and aquaculture sector for the period from 1984 to 2005. Also included are data on international trade in fish and seafood products, as well as counts of the number of fishing-related establishments in the province for selected years.
February
Microgeographic genetic diversity of wild steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in a conservation hatchery operated coastal river: How wild are they?
Posted Feb. 26, 2008
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/ske/fish/skeena_reports/KitimatGeneticsTransactions.pdf
The document describes the findings of a study on genetic variation in potentially wild steelhead trout collected from 11 tributaries and three upper main stem river sites and compared to steelhead trout from the hatchery operated in the lower main stem river. Findings indicate that wild steelhead trout populations exist in tributaries and the upper main stem river and its tributaries. These upper river populations appear to have retained genetic diversity and differentiation in the face of extensive hatchery releases.
Canada-British Columbia Water Quality Monitoring Agreement – Water Quality Assessment of Elk River at Highway 93 near Elko (1968-2005)
Canada-British Columbia Water Quality Monitoring Agreement – Water Quality Assessment of Columbia River at Nicholson (2003-2006)
Canada-British Columbia Water Quality Monitoring Agreement – Water Quality Assessment of Elk River at Sparwood (2002-2005)
January
Environmental Trends in B.C. 2007
Posted Jan. 20, 2008
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/soe/et07/
This is the fourth in a series of Environmental Trends reports from the British Columbia Ministry of Environment. This year's report contains 44 indicators and over 25 supplementary measures divided into seven topics.
Slaughter and Poultry Processing Industries Code of Practice
Posted Jan. 16, 2008
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epdiv/ema_codes_of_practice/slaughter/
This Code of Practice has been amended to allow the co-mingling of domestic sewage with the industrial waste stream, to provide clarification of registration requirements, and includes minor administrative changes regarding the submission of plans.
Land Remediation Section 2006-2007 Annual Report
BC Contaminated Sites Regulation Update
December
A Preliminary Evaluation of Wildlife Tree Retention on Large Cutblocks Harvested between 2003 and 2005 for Mountain Pine Bark Beetle Salvage – Cariboo Region
Posted Dec. 3, 2007
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/car/env_stewardship/ecosystems/reports/
Prelim_evaluation_wildlife_tree_retention_large_cutblock.pdf
In 2006, the Ministry of Environment, Cariboo Region, initiated a project to evaluate wildlife tree retention practices on large cutblocks greater than or equal to 100 hectares (gross block area) associated with Mountain Pine Bark Beetle harvest. The purpose of the project was to determine if wildlife tree patches and wildlife tree retention practices are providing the range of habitats for those species dependent on wildlife trees and if those practices are consistent with the direction or guidance provided by the Ministry of Forests under the Forest Practices Code of BC Act and in consideration of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Land Use Plan. The analysis of the 20 sampled cutblocks showed some potential biodiversity strengths and weaknesses. A further 40 blocks were sampled in 2007 with funding provided by the Provincial Pine Beetle Response group. The 2006 data will be combined with the 2007 data and the final report will be available in the spring of 2008.
November
Recovery Strategy for the Grand Coulee owl-clover (Orthocarpus barbatus)
in British Columbia
Posted Nov. 30, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/recovery/rcvrystrat/
grand_coulee_owl-clover_rcvry_strat_281107.pdf
This recovery strategy has been prepared as advice to the responsible jurisdictions and organizations that may be involved in recovering the species. The recovery approaches identified in the documents are based on the best available scientific and traditional information and may be modified in the future to accommodate new objectives and findings. Success in the recovery of these species depends on the commitment and cooperation of many different constituencies that may be involved in implementing the directions set out in these strategies. Implementation of these strategies is subject to priorities and budgetary constraints of the partnering jurisdictions and organizations.
Recovery Strategy for the southern maiden-hair fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris)
in British Columbia
Posted Nov. 30, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/recovery/rcvrystrat/
southern_maidenhairfern_rcvry_strat_281107.pdf
This recovery strategy has been prepared as advice to the responsible jurisdictions and organizations that may be involved in recovering the species. The recovery approaches identified in the documents are based on the best available scientific and traditional information and may be modified in the future to accommodate new objectives and findings. Success in the recovery of these species depends on the commitment and cooperation of many different constituencies that may be involved in implementing the directions set out in these strategies. Implementation of these strategies is subject to priorities and budgetary constraints of the partnering jurisdictions and organizations.
Ambient Water Quality Guidelines for Benzene
Posted Nov. 22, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/BCguidelines/benzene/benzene_overview.pdf
This document is one in a series that establishes ambient water quality guidelines for British Columbia. The report provides a new water quality guideline for Benzene. This work has the following goals:
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to provide guidelines for the evaluation of data on water, sediment and biota, and
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to provide guidelines for the establishment of site-specific ambient water quality objectives.
Ambient Aquatic Life Guidelines for Xylene
Posted Nov. 22, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/BCguidelines/xylene/xylene_overview.pdf
This document is one in a series that establishes ambient water quality guidelines for British Columbia. This work has the following goals:
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to provide guidelines for the evaluation of data on water, sediment and biota, and
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to provide guidelines for the establishment of site-specific ambient water quality objectives.
Ambient Aquatic Life Guidelines for Toluene – First Update
Posted Nov. 22, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/BCguidelines/toluene/toluene_update.pdf
This document is one in a series that establishes ambient water quality guidelines for British Columbia. This work has the following goals:
-
to provide guidelines for the evaluation of data on water, sediment and biota, and
-
to provide guidelines for the establishment of site-specific ambient water quality objectives.
Ambient Water Quality Guideline for Naphthalene to Protect Freshwater Life
Posted Nov. 22, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/BCguidelines/naphthalene/naphthalene_overview.pdf
This document is one in a series that establishes ambient water quality guidelines for British Columbia. It is an update to a previous report originally published in 1993. This work has the following goals:
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to provide guidelines for the evaluation of data on water, sediment and biota, and
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to provide guidelines for the establishment of site-specific ambient water quality objectives.
Source Water Assessments of Drinking Water Supplies in the Omineca Peace Region
Water Quality Source Identification in the Kiskatinaw Watershed near Dawson Creek, B.C. – Interim Report
Ambient Water Quality Guidelines for Iron (Draft)
The Importance of Charlie Lake and its Watershed
Assessment of Ambient PM10 Levels Adjacent to a Poultry Barn Operation
Posted Nov. 5, 2007
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/eq/special_studies/index.html#3
The report details the ambient particulate matter levels adjacent to a poultry barn operation. The goals of this study were to (a) provide a preliminary assessment of air quality in the vicinity of a poultry barn operation, using a complaint as the grounds for a case study, and (b) to provide quantitative information to regulating agencies designed to initiate discussions and actions related to agricultural air quality issues pertaining to poultry barn operations.
October
The 2006 British Columbia Seafood Industry Year in Review
Compliance Assessment of Unlicenced Pesticide Vendors in the Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley Regional Districts: Phase 3, June 2006
Posted Oct. 22, 2007
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/compliance_assess/pesticide_vendors/phase_3/
This report is Phase 3 of a multi-phase compliance assessment identifying companies selling non-excluded pesticides without a vendor licence, which is required under the
Integrated Pest Management Act. In Phase 2, an overall compliance rate of 56% was observed as 25 of the 45 vendors identified as being non-compliance in Phase 2 of the assessment had become compliant. Over all three phases, the number of non-compliant vendors decreased from 115 to 20. The remaining 20 non-compliant vendors were sent warning letters at the conclusion of Phase 3.
Compliance Assessment of Unlicenced Pesticide Vendors in the Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley Regional Districts: Phase 2, July – Aug., 2005
Posted Oct. 22, 2007
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/compliance_assess/pesticide_vendors/phase_2/
This report is Phase 2 of an ongoing compliance assessment identifying companies selling non-excluded pesticides without a vendor licence, which is required under the
Integrated Pest Management Act. In Phase 1, an overall compliance rate of 91% was observed as 115 vendors (9% of the vendors who were inspected) were selling non-excluded pesticides without the appropriate licence. Phase 2 followed up on these 115 non-compliant vendors. This phase found that of these 115 vendors, 54% had come into compliance. Those that did not come into compliance were sent a non-compliance letter.
Economic Contribution of the Oceans Sector in British Columbia
Posted Oct. 10, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/omfd/reports/oceansector-economics.pdf
This report was prepared under contract for the Canada/British Columbia Oceans Coordinating
Committee (OCC). To date, the rising interest in the ocean and its economic role has not been matched by supporting
information and analysis. The oceans sector is not well-represented by conventional statistics. This
study is a first step in filling the data gaps to help all levels of government, First Nations, key
stakeholders, and the public at large to better comprehend the ocean's economic significance.
Literature Review and Framework Analysis of
Non-Market Goods and Services Provided by
British Columbia's Ocean and Marine Coastal
Resources
Posted Oct. 10, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/omfd/reports/ocean-nonmarket-values.pdf
The flow of goods and services from British Columbia's ocean and marine coastal
resources is dependent on the integrity of the underlying ecosystems that support the generation
of these goods and services. For example, the viability of the commercial salmon fishery is
dependent on underlying ecosystems that support the recruitment of salmon, including freshwater habitat, coastal estuaries, and ocean systems.
September
Smoke Forecasting Workshop 2007 Proceedings
Posted Sept. 24, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/smokeforecast_07.pdf
This report summarizes the smoke forecasting workshop, in Feb. 2007, which explored options for cooperatively developing a framework for operational smoke forecasting in Canada. The workshop was organized by Alberta Environment, Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, BC Ministry of the Environment, and Environment Canada.
B.C. Volunteer Lake Monitoring Program, Tabor Lake 1994 – 2002
Bioassessment of Streams in North-central British Columbia Using the Reference Condition Approach
Posted Sept. 5, 2007
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/ske/epd/water_quality/benthic/
This report presents the results of three years of research toward developing a new tool for bioassessment in north-central British Columbia. This new tool utilizes benthic invertebrate communities and multi-variety statistical modelling to assess the health of stream ecosystems.
Inventory of Air Quality Bylaws in British Columbia for: Anti-Idling, Open-Burning and Wood-Burning Appliances
Posted Sept. 4, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/aq_bylaws_bc.pdf
This report focuses on three air quality areas of concern to residents of British Columbia - vehicle idling, open burning and wood burning appliances. Communities throughout B.C. were contacted to determine if they have applicable bylaws aimed at reducing emissions for each area.
August
British Columbia Seafood Industry Profile
The View Ahead
The View Ahead – Managing Visibility in B.C. June 19, 2007 Workshop
The Biological Integrity of Okanagan Streams: Using Benthic Invertebrates to Monitor Stream Health
Posted Aug. 30, 2007
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sir/pp/envqual/waterqual/benthic_invert_2007.pdf
This is a 12-page brochure which describes the use of benthic invertebrates to rank the health of 31 stream sites in the Okanagan Basin; 68% of these sites are in fair, poor or very poor condition. The lowest scores are likely associated with the cumulative stresses from riparian vegetation loss, channelization, stormwater inputs and degraded water or sediment quality.
Water Quality Assessment of Fraser River at Hope (1979 – 2004)
Posted Aug. 16, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/quality/hope/wq_fraser_riv_hope_2004.pdf
This report is a water quality assessment of trend data collected at this site between 1979 and 2004. It is noted that the turbidity may be increasing as well as metals associated with turbidity. Any values that exceed guidelines are associated with turbidity events and are not biologically significant.
Status of the Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) in British Columbia
Posted Aug. 9, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/statusrpts/b115.pdf
This report is part of an ongoing program within the Ministry to provide status reports for species at risk in British Columbia. This report includes information synthesized from published and unpublished literature on Peregrine Falcons in British Columbia and elsewhere.
Provincial Recovery Strategies
Posted Aug. 7, 2007
Provincial Recovery Strategies have been prepared as advice to the government of British Columbia and other organizations involved in recovering species. The recovery approaches identified in these strategies are based on the base available knowledge for each species and are subject to modifications resulting from new findings. Implementation of these strategies is subject to priorities aned budgetary constraints of the participating jurisdictions and organizations.
Marbled Murrelet Management Strategy for Clayoquot Sound
Posted Aug. 2, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/techpub/b122.html
This publication describes the research and inventory process (using an ecosystem-based management approach) that led to the development of this management strategy and the systematic identification of Marbled Murrelet reserves in British Columbia. It builds on earlier work published on the first four planning unit reserves described in Multi-scaled Studies of Populations, Distribution and Habitat Associations of Marbled Murrelets in Clayoquot Sound
The Multi-scaled study paper is at:
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/techpub/mamuwebs.pdf [PDF 3.48MB]
Merritt Air Quality Management Plan, May 2007
July
McMillan Creek Monitoring Project: 2006 EPD Data Summary
Burnaby Oil Spill
Posted July 27, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/eemp/incidents/burnaby_oil_spill_07.htm
On July 24, 2007 a Kinder Morgan crude oil pipeline connecting their Burnaby Tank Farm to the Westridge Marine Terminal was punctured by a construction crew digging along the Barnett Highway. Approximately 50 homes, property, and a section of the Barnett Highway were impacted when the 24 inch pipeline was ruptured, resulting in a 30 meter geyser of oil spraying into the air and covering the surrounding area with oil over approximately a 25 minute period.
Water Quality in British Columbia - Objectives Attainment in 2005
Posted July 4, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/attain_pdf/05_attain_report.pdf
This report is a summary of water quality data for the year 2005 for water bodies where site-specific water quality objectives have been formulated by the ministry. It is one of a series of such reports dating from 1986. Data summaries are provided, as are conclusion statements such as "Objective Met", "Objective not Met" and "Indefinite Result".
Data Analysis and Source Apportionment of PM2.5 in Golden, British Columbia, Using Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF)
Posted July 4, 2007
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/kor/epd/eqs.htm
This report outlines the methodology and findings from a two and a half year partnership study between the Ministry of Environment and Environment Canada, interpreting particulate matter speciation data from Golden, British Columbia. The focus of this study is the application of receptor modeling techniques to identify the origins of PM2.5 in Golden.
June
Pacific Great Blue Heron Population and Monitoring Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands 2005
Posted June 22, 2007
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/techpub/wr110gbhe.pdf
This report describes the results of population inventory and monitoring of Great Blue Heron on Vancouver Island (Region 1) for 2005. Inventory of 648 active nests shows no significant trend for active nests, but productivity continues to decline. Bald Eagle predation is the proximate cause of colony failure but development and human disturbance are important factors.
Draft Oil and Gas Waste Regulation – Users Guide
Posted June 13, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/epdpa/industrial_waste/petrochemical/petrochemical_regs.htm
This draft document explains the facilities that the Oil and Gas Waste Regulation (OGWR) applies to, specific discharges that it authorizes and how the OGWR requirements can be met. Other regulations that apply to oil and gas industry wastes, and the roles of the Ministry of Environment and the Oil and Gas Commission are also described.
May
Compliance With Range Use Plan Stubble Heights – Reports on Monitoring Activities
Posted May 29, 2007
These documents report the findings for range compliance projects – compliance monitoring of the regulatory requirements for stubble height identified in key areas in a Range Use Plan under the Forest Practices Code Act of British Columbia and Regulations. Stubble height was selected for its relevance as an indicator of environmental conditions and for ease of measurement. Stubble height has been widely used to gauge the impacts of grazing use in both riparian and upland areas. The reports provide recommendations intended to improve stubble height management and compliance.
EcoCat: The Ecological Reports Catalogue
Flathead River Water Quality Assessment 1980 – 2004
British Columbia Environmental Laboratory Manual: 2007
– For the Analysis of Water, Wastewater, Sediment, Biological Materials and Discrete Ambient Air Samples
Posted May 8, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/wamr/labsys/lab_man_07.html
In cooperation with the Technical Subcommittee of the B.C. Laboratory Environmental Quality Assurance Advisory Committee, the Ministry of Environment has produced the 2007 edition of the British Columbia Environmental Laboratory Manual, which supercedes the 2005 version.
Water Quality Assessment of Salmon River at Salmon Arm (1985 – 2004)
Posted May 2, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/quality/salmonriv_salmonarm/salmon_river_salmonarm.pdf
This report is a water quality assessment of trend data collected at this site between 1985 and 2004. It is noted that there may be an increasing trend in arsenic but these levels are not environmentally significant. Any other values that exceed guidelines are associated with turbidity events and are not biologically significant.
Water Quality Assessment of Nechako River at Prince George (1985 – 2004)
Posted May 2, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/quality/nechako/nechako_2005.pdf
This report is a water quality assessment of trend data collected at this site between 1985 and 2004. It is noted that there were no apparent increasing trends. Any values that exceed guidelines are associated with turbidity events and are not biologically significant.
Water Quality Assessment of Thompson River at Spences Bridge (1984 – 2004)
Posted May 2, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/quality/spences/thompson_spences.pdf
This report is a water quality assessment of trend data collected at this site between 1984 and 2004. It is noted that there were no apparent increasing trends. Any other values that exceed guidelines are associated with turbidity events and are not biologically significant.
Water Quality Assessment of Quinsam River near the Mouth
Posted May 2, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/quality/quinsam/quinsam.pdf
This report is a water quality assessment of trend data collected at this site between 1986 and 2004. It is noted that there is confirmed increasing trend in boron, calcium, magnesium, sulphate, specific conductivity, and hardness due to acid mine drainage (but are not at levels of concern to aquatic life). Any other values that exceed guidelines are associated with turbidity events and are not biologically significant.
Water Quality Assessment of Fraser River at Marguerite (1984 – 2004)
Posted May 2, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/quality/sowqofr2/fraser_marguerite.pdf
This report is a water quality assessment of trend data collected at this site between 1984 and 2004. It is noted that turbidity may be increasing as well as metals associated with turbidity. Any values that exceed guidelines are associated with turbidity events and are not biologically significant.
Provincial Framework for Airshed Planning
Posted May 2, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/index.html#provairshed_framework
This framework document is designed to guide the development of air quality management plans, or "airshed plans," in British Columbia. It is meant to encourage more consistency and efficiency in airshed planning - towards implementing the Canada-wide Standards for particulate matter and ozone. The document was produced after a process that included two rounds of stakeholder consultation and three reports.
Water Quality Assessment of Fraser River at Red Pass (1984 – 2004)
Posted May 1, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/quality/wqfrrp/fraser_red_pass_2006.pdf [PDF 833KB]
This report is a water quality assessment of trend data collected at this site between 1984 and 2004. It is noted that there may be increasing trends in some variables but these are not considered to be environmentally significant. Any values that exceed guidelines are associated with turbidity events and are not biologically significant.
Slaughter and Poultry Processing Industries Code of Practice
Posted May 1, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epdiv/ema_codes_of_practice/slaughter/
The Ministry of Environment intends to establish a "code of practice" (Minister's regulation) that addresses discharges to the environment from the slaughter and poultry processing industries under provisions of the Environmental Management Act (EMA) and the Waste Discharge Regulation (WDR). The proposed code of practice would establish province-wide regulations for the slaughter and poultry processing industries.
March
Watershed Prioritization Project: Year End 2002/03 Final Report
Assessment of Compliance with Selected Sections of the Organic Matter Recycling Regulation, EMA – Oct. 2005–2006
February
Canada–wide Standards for PM and Ozone: Status of Jurisdictional Implementation Planning Activities – British Columbia
– Nov. 2006
Posted Feb. 12, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/canada_pm_ozone.pdf [PDF 251KB]
This is an overview of B.C.'s progress towards meeting the Canada-wide Standards (CWS) for particulate matter (PM) and ozone by 2010. It includes a summary of PM and ozone data up to and including 2005, and describes activities underway in support of CWS achievement. It was released in conjuction with the national report by the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment.
Background Concentrations of PM2.5 and Ozone in British Columbia, Canada
March 2006
Posted Feb. 12, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/background_pm25_ozone.pdf [PDF 437KB]
This report describes preliminary estimates of background particulate matter (PM) and ozone levels, based on a review of current literature and available monitoring data. It also provides recommendations on how refined estimates of background levels may be better determined.
Water Quality in British Columbia – Objectives Attainment in 2004
Posted Feb. 12, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/attain_pdf/04_attainment.pdf [PDF 2,354KB]
This report is a summary of water quality data for the year 2004 for water bodies where site-specific water quality objectives have been formulated by the ministry. It is one of a series of such reports dating from 1986. Data summaries are provided, as are conclusion statements such as "Objective Met", "Objective not Met" and "Indefinite Result".
Water Quality in British Columbia – Objectives Attainment in 2003
Posted Feb. 12, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/attain_pdf/03_attainment.pdf [PDF 3,457KB]
This report is a summary of water quality data for the year 2003 for water bodies where site-specific water quality objectives have been formulated by the ministry. It is one of a series of such reports dating from 1986. Data summaries are provided, as are conclusion statements such as "Objective Met", "Objective not Met" and "Indefinite Result".
Regional Paleolimnology: Lake Sediment Coring Studies
Kitlope Heritage Conservancy Draft Management Plan
Posted Feb. 8, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/planning/mgmtplns/kitlope/kitlope.html
This is the second version of a draft management plan for this protected area. Management plans set out proposed objectives and strategies to direct the conservation, use and development of resources in the protected area. This draft of the plan will be used to solicit feedback from the public on the draft management strategies, which will then be revised as appropriate in the development of the final plan.
Mount Robson Provincial Park Draft Management Plan
Posted Feb. 8, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/planning/mgmtplns/mtrobson/mtrobson.html
This is a draft management plan for public review. Management plans set out proposed objectives and strategies to direct the conservation, use and development of resources in the protected area. This draft of the plan will be used to solicit feedback from the public on the draft management strategies, which will then be revised as appropriate in the development of the final plan.
January
Best Management Practices for Raptor Conservation during Urban and Rural Land Development in British Columbia.
Posted Jan. 16, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/bmp/raptor_bmp_final.pdf
Best Management Practices for Raptor Conservation during Urban and Rural Land Development in British Columbia. This document was developed to provide additional background information in support of Develop with Care. It is also the companion document to the Best Management Practices for Amphibians and Reptiles in Urban and Rural Land Development in British Columbia. The document provides general material on raptors, including life history and habitat requirments, for 25 species whose ranges overlap with urban and rural development, and provides best management practices guidelines for activities undertaken in those ranges.
Quesnel Highland Snowmobile–Mountain Caribou Monitoring Report Cariboo Region
Posted Jan. 12, 2007
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/car/env_stewardship/ecosystems/reports/SnowCaribouFinal2006.pdf
Nine aerial fixed-wing flights were conducted between Jan. 8th and April 30th, 2006. Additional partial flights provided useful supplemental data for the project. The report describes the findings of the surveys - e.g., locations of snowmobiles and snowmobile track in addition to caribou and caribou track sightings were recorded.
Four Year Summary of the Quesnel Highland Snowmobile–Mountain Caribou Monitoring Project, Cariboo Region
Posted Jan. 12, 2007
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/car/env_stewardship/ecosystems/reports/SnowCaribou4yrfinal.pdf
A four year monitoring plan to record baseline data of snow machine use within critical and sensitive caribou winter habitats began in Dec. of 2002 and was concluded in April 2006 for the Quesnel Highland study area. The report describes the findings of the surveys. Funding for this four year monitoring project was provided by the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund (HCTF) and the Ministry of Environment.
Guidelines for Air Quality Dispersion Modelling in British Columbia
Posted Jan. 4, 2007
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/aq_disp_model_06.pdf
These guidelines provide recommended practices for dispersion modelling in British Columbia. Such practices help ensure modelling is appropriate for the needs of the application, applied correctly and consistently using accepted scientific techniques - in a way that helps inform air quality management decisions.
Ambient PM10 Monitoring Sechelt, B.C. – 2004–2005 Update
Posted Jan. 3, 2007
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/air_quality/sechelt_04_05.html
This update report summarizes PM
10 data collected in 2004/2005. The report: compares 2004/2005 data to provincial ambient air quality objectives and federal reference levels; compares 2004/2005 data with previous years of PM
10 data from Sechelt; and compares 2004/2005 PM
10 sampling results with PM
10 results from other communities in British Columbia.
