Stream Assessments

Client: British Columbia Timber Sales (BCTS)

Project: In the forestry sector, fish and fish habitat assessments are integral to the planning process. These assessments serve various purposes, including informing the design of stream crossing structures, determining appropriate riparian setbacks, and identifying potential opportunities for habitat restoration. By conducting thorough assessments, the forestry sector can ensure that their activities align with the protection and conservation of fish populations and their habitats. These assessments play a vital role in promoting sustainable forestry practices that prioritize the health and integrity of aquatic ecosystems.

Services: Masse Environmental has conducted numerous stream assessments in the Kootenay, Boundary, and Columbia regions, encompassing a wide range of activities. These assessments include surveys to determine the presence or absence of fish, evaluations of habitat quality, identification of upstream fish distribution limits, and the identification of anthropogenic barriers that impede fish migration, such as impassable culverts. All surveys are carried out in strict accordance with provincial standards, adhering to protocols such as the Reconnaissance (1:20,000) Fish and Fish Habitat Inventory, Fish Habitat Assessment Procedure, Fish Passage Assessments, and Fish Collection Permit terms and conditions. Through these comprehensive assessments, Masse Environmental contributes to the understanding and conservation of fish populations and their habitats, ensuring compliance with established guidelines and regulations.