The public will play a role in deciding what uses are appropriate on and near the Shuswap River.
The Regional District of North Okanagan board has approved the implementation of the Shuswap River watershed sustainability plan and its 2014/15 strategies.
“We are getting the endorsement from other councils which is encouraging but we need to go to the public and stakeholders for consultation,” said director Jackie Pearase.
“Whether people are for or against, we want to hear from them.”
Among the strategies is considering all available options for boating regulations to reduce erosion of the river bank, protecting riparian areas, improving non-motorized recreational opportunities, resolving the conflict between boaters and residents and increasing safety.
“People live on the river and they want to recreate in the way they choose to and we have to find that balance,” said Pearase.
Among the potential options are a no wake zone between Mara Lake and the Trinity Valley bridge, a non-motorized watercraft zone between the Trinity Valley bridge and Mabel Lake and from Mabel Lake to Shuswap Falls.
Another priority is improving consultation and community input on watershed management through the creation of an independent advisory committee.
Other goals are improving public education and possibly restoring high-value riparian areas.
Pearase is encouraging all residents to take part in developing a sustainability plan.
“This will be a two to three-year process,” said Pearase.
