Pacific NorthWest LNG is denying claims that it plans to move eelgrass from Flora Bank and relocate it to the Skeena River.
That concern was raised by Joey Wesley in discussing the peaceful occupation of Lelu Island in the Aug. 28 Northern Connector, but Pacific NorthWest LNG senior advisor of corporate affairs Spencer Sproule said those plans are not on the books.
“As part of our ongoing collaboration through the environmental assessment process, Pacific NorthWest LNG has presented a concept to area First Nations and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans whereby eelgrass transplants – from Porpoise Channel, not Flora Bank – could be undertaken to partially offset potential impacts to habitat as a result of our proposed marine infrastructure,” he said.
“Any program would follow proven methods and best practices that have yielded positive outcomes in other areas of British Columbia. We have engaged two world leading restoration scientists to work with us and area First Nations as this proposal takes shape. No on-the-ground work has or will take place unless the concept is approved by the Government of Canada.”
The peaceful occupation continues, with boats on hand to take supporters to Lelu Island.
