Concerns for fish health increasing as drought and water scarcity persists

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“Declining water levels are creating fish passage challenges where smaller streams connect to larger waterbodies, including the Thompson River, Okanagan Lake, Kalamalka Lake, Shuswap Lake and Nicola Lake.”

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Concerns for fish health increasing as drought and water scarcity persists

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The River Forecast Centre stated there were already instances of flow disconnections, when sections of a stream or stream system become separated by dry areas or extremely low water levels.

“Trinity Creek is a tributary of the Shuswap River. Low water levels have fully disconnected Trinity Creek from the Shuswap River, creating a barrier for fish movement. This is particularly concerning for Chinook and Coho salmon, which will begin migrating upstream to spawning grounds in the coming weeks.”

Other fish species in the Okanagan being put at risk due to low flows include Shinook salmon, Rainbow Trout, Bull Trout, and Mountain Whitefish. The low flows can also decrease aquatic insect production, which is an important food source for fish.

The River Forecast Centre added severe water supply concerns persisted across the region as well, noting Okanagan and Kalamalka Lakes’ levels remained at record lows. There were also concerns about drinking water availability, noting supply from many domestic wells have been unable to meet demand.

The weather forecast called for a chance of showers over the weekend, but that was not expected to address the drought and water scarcity issues as the following week called for clear, sunny skies and hot days.

People were urged to follow their local water restrictions.