The following ecosystem priorities and project ideas were identified through our Ecosystems Enhancement Program with a thorough review of regional plans and research and by seeking input from community groups, First Nations representatives, government agencies and subject matter experts. Ecological priorities and emerging issues are listed in random order; no ranking is intended. Species and habitats are not limited to those listed below.
Ecological Priorities
Wetland/Riparian
Conservation, restoration and enhancement of wetlands and riparian areas
Priority Habitat: low elevation wetlands and adjacent upland areas in Upper Columbia Valley, historic wetlands and adjacent upland areas in Canoe Reach and Robson Valley, high elevation wetlands.
Priority Species: northern leopard frog, western painted turtle, western toad, at risk wetland and migratory birds (great blue heron, western screech-owl, western grebe, bobolink, common nighthawk, bank swallow, barn swallow, long-billed curlew, olive-sided flycatcher), American beaver, culturally important plants, rare plants.
Priority Processes: wildlife movement and migration, connectivity, food web interactions (predator-prey, seed dispersal, pollination), natural fire regime.
Aquatic
Restoration and enhancement of native fish and fish habitat
Priority Habitat: spawning, rearing, overwintering areas (rivers, tributary streams).