BC Hydro tries to conserve water and protect fish

BC Hydro says a lack of rain and extended heat in the Lower Mainland and on Vancouver Island has forced it to adjust operations at some of its smaller stations.

The utility company says stations in Coquitlam and Campbell River have seen abnormally low flows, with Campbell River breaking a 53-year record.

Hydro says it is taking “proactive steps” to protect downstream fish habitats amid the lack of rain.

“We began holding back water in July and August at some facilities anticipating the dry conditions to help ensure we would have water storage for the later summer and early fall salmon spawning,” said Mora Scott, BC Hydro spokesperson.

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While the dry weather affected BC Hydro’s watersheds, the utility notes many natural river systems “have fared worse, with rivers drying up and thousands of fish killed. .”

Although the flows are low, Hydro says there isn’t any problem supplying B.C. with power. Larger facilities in the north and southeast of the province generate most of the electricity needed, the utility adds.

BC Hydro says it will continue monitoring forecasts to adapt its strategy to help protect fish and environment.