December
Baseline Selenium in Sculpins Related to the Northeast British Columbia Coal Zone
Posted December 20, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/nor/pollution/environmental/water_quality/pdf/selenium_sculpins.pdf
This paper reports on the determination of background selenium (Se) concentrations in whole bodies of slimy sculpin (Cottus cognatus) collected from reference areas both inside and outside the coal zone in northeast British Columbia. These data will be useful for assessing potential risks from Se released by coal mining in northeast B.C. and possibly elsewhere.
Application of Multivariate Techniques to Examine Quality of Streams in the
Okanagan Region
Posted December 7, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sir/pp/envqual/waterqual/ok_benthos_06.pdf
The Reference Condition Approach (RCA) is gaining wide acceptance as an innovative and cost effective tool for water quality monitoring and site testing in British Columbia. A multivariate model is used to explain variability of benthic invertebrate communities among reference sites using environmental attributes at those sites. The model is used to predict what biota should be present at a "test" site if it is in a reference condition. If the biota found at the test site is different from that predicted to be present, the site is rated as being stressed to varying degrees.
Cumulative Effects Monitoring of Okanagan Streams Using Benthic Invertebrates,
1999 to 2004
Posted December 7, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sir/pp/envqual/waterqual/monitor_ok_benthic_06.pdf
Biological monitoring is essential to describing and protecting biological resources. There are many benefits to using benthic invertebrate measures as cumulative effects indicators. In this study, benthic invertebrates were collected from 23 low elevation Okanagan stream sites
between 1999 and 2004. Water and sediment chemistry samples were collected during the study to complement the biological sampling. Water quality data indicated that in urban and agriculture settings, bacteriological measures frequently exceed drinking and recreational water quality guidelines.
November
2004 Annual Air Quality Report for Prince George
A Provincial Airshed Planning Framework: Summary of Findings
from Stakeholder Consultations
Posted November 24, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/aqconsult2_summary.pdf
The ministry is in the process of establishing a provincial framework to guide future airshed planning across B.C., and to evaluate options for developing new provincial PM (particulate matter) objectives. To this end, the ministry sponsored stakeholder consultations in February-March and June 2006, which generated three reports. This is the last report, focusing on the second round of consultations in June. Building on the questions and issues raised in the earlier reports, these consultations dealt more specifically with the elements of an airshed planning framework, who should be involved, and how the province and others can best support the process.
(All three reports can be found here:
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/whatsnew.html#airplanaqconsult)
Diseases You Can Get From Wildlife (in British Columbia)
Posted November 10, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/wldhealth/diseases_from_wildlife_safetymanual.pdf
This booklet was developed by the B.C. Ministry of Environment, B.C. Centre for Disease Control and the Centre for Coastal Health with funding support from the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund, the B.C. Wildlife Federation, the Guide Outfitters Association of B.C., the B.C. Trapper's Association and the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Fund in order to describe potential threats to angler, hunter and trapper health and ways to avoid them. Wildlife (fish, game and birds) may carry diseases, some of which are known to cause illness in humans. Fortunately, the transmission of most of these diseases to humans can be prevented through some basic, and very simple, safety precautions. This booklet provides tips to help anglers, hunters and trappers recognize disease in wildlife, and discusses the preventative measures that can help to reduce the risk of disease. We hope that you find this information useful.
Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Report, Nelson, British Columbia:
Particulate Matter – 1991 to 2005
Posted November 8, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/kor/epd/pdf/nelson_aug28_91_05.pdf
This report is one in a series of air quality reports that are being issued by the Kootenay Regional Office for all communities in the region where air quality is monitored. The intention is to provide this information in a readily understood format so that better decisions regarding air quality management can be made.
October
Data Collection and Analysis of Non-Certified AirCare Repairs
Posted October 20, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/carf/clean_air_fund_pdfs/aircare_noncert_repairs.pdf
This report presents data collected on AirCare-required vehicle repairs that were done at non-certified repair shops (the type, effectiveness and cost of repairs). This data is valuable in assessing how important non-certified repairs are to the AirCare program and how they compare to certified repairs. The project findings could result in modified policies pertaining to the repair industry, certification, monitoring and conditional passes.
Assessment of Bacteriological Indicators in False Creek With Recommendations
for Bacteriological Water Quality Objectives for Recreational Uses
Posted October 13, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/eq/wq_monitoring/false_creek/index.html
Technical report that examines microbiological data collected in False Creek between 1990 amd 2002. The report also examines recreational guidelines used in other jurisdictions. The report recommends that the 1990 Burrard Inlet Water Quality Objectives be amended to include recreation as a protected water use in False Creek.
Water Quality Assessment of Watercourses Used for Irrigation of Ready-to-Eat Produce in Cloverdale BC
Compliance Assessment of Agricultural Practices in the Cloverdale Area, British Columbia
Posted October 13, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/compliance_assess/cloverdale/index.html
A compliance assessment of selected agricultural practices was completed in the Cloverdale area between September and December 2004. The assessment was initiated in response to water quality sampling that found elevated levels of E.
coli in watercourses used to irrigate ready-to-eat produce. This report recommends that non-compliance issues identified during the study be followed up by ministry staff to ensure that the issues have been remedied.
Compliance Assessment of Manure Application Practices in the Chilliwack and Agassiz Areas of the Lower Fraser Valley, British Columbia: February 7 – March 4, 2005
Posted October 5, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/compliance_assess/manure_chilliwack/index.html
The findings in this report come from an aerial assessment of manure application practices in the Agassiz and Chilliwack areas of the Lower Fraser Valley. The report found an overall compliance rate of approximately 88%.
The study developed several recommendations which have or will be acted upon through joint efforts of government and the agriculture sector.
Consultations on Proposed Options for Provincial Air Quality Objectives
and an Airshed Planning Framework: Summary Notes
Posted October 5, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/aqconsult_summary.pdf
The Ministry of Environment is working to meet the Canada-wide Standards (CWS) for particulate matter (PM) and ozone, and the standards' provisions for "Continuous Improvement" and "Keeping Clean Areas Clean." Airshed planning is an important tool in meeting these standards. The ministry is in the process of establishing a provincial framework to guide future airshed planning across British Columbia. It is also evaluating options for developing new provincial PM objectives that support our CWS commitments.
To gain early stakeholder input into both processes, the ministry sponsored two consultations in early 2006, in Vancouver and Prince George. This report summarizes the comments received, eight general issues raised, and considerations for next steps.
A Provincial Airshed Planning Framework: Consultation Discussion Paper
Posted October 5, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/aqconsult_discussion.pdf
This paper builds on the findings of the Vancouver and Prince George consultations described in the summary notes above (Consultations on Proposed Options for Provincial Air Quality Objectives and an Airshed Planning Framework). It discusses the role of the provincial government, guiding principles and key elements in developing an airshed plan. In addition, it identifies questions for further consideration.
The British Columbia Interagency Wild Bird Mortality Investigation Protocol & the 2006 Avian Influenza and West Nile Virus Surveys
Posted October 5, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/wldhealth/AI1Pager.pdf
A one page information sheet that describes the agencies to which sick or dead wild birds are of interest, guidelines for reporting dead birds and phone numbers and/or websites for additional information and contact information.
September
Williams Lake Airshed Management Planning Background Air Quality Report
(for Data Collected 1990 – 2002)
Posted September 14, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/car/epd/air/aq_reports/wml.html
One of a series of documents produced for the Williams Lake Air Quality Roundtable in support of the development of an airshed management plan for Williams Lake. This is an air quality summary report that examines trends to date for meteorology, PM10, PM2.5, ozone and nitrogen oxides.
Mitigating the Impacts of Channel Maintenance in the Lower Fraser Valley – 2003-2004 Field Trial and Literature Review
Posted September 12, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/bmp/Mitigating_Impacts_Channel_Maintenance_March2006.pdf
This technical report summarizes literature pertaining to the impacts of small-stream/ditch channel dredging and maintenance on fish and fish habitat. It describes the findings of a field trial that examined the benefits of MoE recommended mitigative best practices. The report concludes that impacts on fish and fish habitat from channel dredging is signficant and that the best practices are effective in reducing these impacts.
August
Fine Particulate Source Apportionment UPDATE for the Williams Lake Airshed
Based on CALPUFF Modelling, 2005
Posted August 18, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/car/epd/air/aq_reports/pdf/wml/fine_part_source_apport.pdf
One of a series of documents produced for the Williams Lake Air Quality Roundtable in support of the development of an airshed management plan for Williams Lake. This report summarizes the results of a source apportionment exercise done for fine particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5) at 15 different locations in the Williams Lake Airshed using the output from the CALPUFF dispersion model. Relative contributions (mass and in percent of total) from all sources of PM10 and PM2.5 were estimated.
CALPUFF Modelling for the Williams Lake Airshed, 2005
Posted August 18, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/car/epd/air/aq_reports/pdf/wml/CALPUFF_wlms_lkairhsed.pdf
One of a series of documents produced for the Williams Lake Air Quality Roundtable in support of the development of an airshed management plan for Williams Lake. This report summarizes how dispersion modelling was used to help identify source contributions to poor air quality in Williams Lake. It also examines model performance and presents concentration plots, summaries, and conclusions for all common air contaminants emitted in the Williams Lake Airshed.
CALMET Modelling for the Williams Lake Airshed, 2004
Posted August 18, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/car/epd/air/aq_reports/pdf/wml/CALMET_wlmslake.pdf
One of a series of documents produced for the Williams Lake Air Quality Roundtable in support of the development of an airshed management plan for Williams Lake. This report summarizes the data used, model version used, etc. to generate 3-dimensional wind fields for the Williams Lake Airshed in support of airshed dispersion modelling. Model performance and limitations are also discussed.
Inventory of Common Air Contaminants Emitted in the Williams Lake Airshed for
the Year 2000
Posted August 18, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/car/epd/air/aq_reports/pdf/wml/invent_air_contam.pdf
One of a series of documents produced for the Williams Lake Air Quality Roundtable in support of the development of an airshed management plan for Williams Lake. This report summarizes a detailed inventory of common air contaminants emitted by different source groups within the Williams Lake Airshed. This information was used in the Williams Lake Airshed CALPUFF modelling exercise.
Drinking Water Source Quality Monitoring 2002-03: Lakes District (Burns Lake, Francois Lake, Babine Lake and Burns Rural Groundwater)
Drinking Water Source Quality Monitoring 2002-03: Bulkley Valley Surface Water Sources (Smithers Lakes, Kirby Lake, Chicago Creek, Bulkley River, Toboggan Creek and Thompson Creek)
July
An Evaluation of Sediment Quality
Conditions in the Vicinity of the
Macaulay Point and Clover Point
Outfalls
Compliance Assessment of Pesticide Vendors in the Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley Regional Districts: Phase 1, January 2005 – April 2005.
Posted July 24, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/compliance_assess/pesticide_vendors/index.html
The compliance assessment identified companies selling non-excluded pesticides without a vendor licence which is required under the
Integrated Pest Management Act. An overall compliance rate of 91% was observed. One hundred and fifteen vendors were selling non-excluded pesticides without the appropriate licence. These vendors were provided with information that would enable them to come into compliance.
June
Recycling Regulation Guide and Procedures
Posted June 30, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/epdpa/ips/devreg/index.html
The ministry has prepared the next version of the Recycling Regulation Guide based on comments received on the first version during the web-based, stakeholder consultation process that ended September 30, 2005. The ministry still intends to post a copy of the consultation summary report on this site, but it is not yet ready and the ministry decided not to delay posting the Guide. When the summary is posted, stakeholders will be notified by e-mail.
B.C. Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Progress Report 2001-2004
The Importance of Swan Lake & its Watershed
The Importance of Nukko Lake & its Watershed
Continental Mine: 2003 Impact Assessment
Posted June 28, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/kor/epd/continental_mine/continental.html
This report summarizes the results of monitoring conducted by the Kootenay Region, Environmental Quality Section to evaluate impacts from the Continental Mine. This historic lead / silver mine, located in northern Idaho, operated until the 1940s. Tailings from the mine were deposited into Blue Joe Creek, causing extensive metals contamination of the water and sediments within Blue Joe Creek, which flows to the transboundary systems of Boundary Creek and the Kootenay River.
Benthic Macroinvertebrate Sustainability Indicator Development Project: Summary of Progress in Year 2
Posted June 28, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/ske/epd/water_quality/benthic/index.html
This report provides the results of year two of a three year study to develop a sustainability indicator of aquatic ecosystem health. The indicator, combined with other indicators of aquatic ecosystem sustainability, will serve as a monitoring and assessment feedback mechanism to determine the effectiveness of forest practices in protecting valued aquatic resources. It will also be used in managing point and non-point discharges.
Assessment of Hazardous Waste Generators' Compliance with the
Hazardous Waste Regulation
Incident Summary Report – CN Rail – Cheakamus River Derailment and Spill
Posted June 13, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/eq/special_studies/cheakamus/cheakamus.pdf
This report details the critical events that occurred August 5, 2005 immediately after a derailment of a freight train and the spillage of a tank car of caustic soda into the Cheakamus River. The report provides the "lessons learned" and recommendations for consideration by the Ministry of Environment (MoE) and the Provincial Emergency Program (PEP).
British Columbia's Coastal Environment 2006
Posted June 8, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/soe/bcce/
This website provides the public and decision makers with
baseline scientific information about the state of British Columbia's
coastal environment, from the Coast Mountains to Canada's 200-mile
offshore limit. The topics of the six in-depth technical reports are:
Population and Economic Activity, Industrial Contaminants, Climate Change,
Fisheries, Biodiversity and Ecosystem Protection.
May
Williamson's Sapsucker Inventory, Stand-level Habitat Assessment and Nest Productivity Assessment LBIP Standards
Posted May 31, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/fia_docs/WISA_inventory_LBIP_standards.pdf
The standards expand on the Resource Information Standards Committee
document titled Inventory Methods for Woodpeckers. They will serve as
the standards to be followed for Williamson's Sapsucker inventory projects
submitted by forest tenure holders under the Land Base Investment Program
of the Forest Investment Account. These standards are based on Williamson's
Sapsucker work conducted between 1996 and 2005 under contract to the Ministry
of Environment and have been reviewed by species experts.
Well Construction/Closure Report Form
Concrete and Concrete Products Industry Code of Practice – Intentions Paper
Posted May 17, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epdiv/ema_codes_of_practice/concrete_code/index.html
The Ministry of Environment intends to establish a "code of practice"
(Minister's regulation) that addresses discharges to the environment
from the concrete products industry under provisions of the
Environmental
Management Act (EMA) and the Waste Discharge Regulation (WDR). The proposed
code of practice would establish province-wide regulations for the concrete
and concrete products industry.
Industrial Non-Hazardous Waste Landfills Code of Practice – Intentions Paper
Posted May 17, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epdiv/ema_codes_of_practice/industrial_land_code/index.html
The Ministry of Environment intends to establish a "code of practice"
(Minister's regulation) that addresses industrial non-hazardous waste
landfills under provisions of the
Environmental Management Act (EMA)
and the Waste Discharge Regulation (WDR). The proposed code of practice
would establish province-wide regulations for industrial non-hazardous waste
landfill sites.
Lake Stocking Assessment Reports - Omineca Region
Posted May 12, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/omr/esd/faw/stocking/lakedata.html
These lake stocking assessment reports describe the results of assessment surveys
conducted on each of 35 lakes in B.C. Lake name, location, attributes, management
objectives and history, stocking data, survey methods, survey results, conclusions
and recommendations are included in the reports. Tables and figures with pertinent
data and information are also included in each report.
Draft Guidelines for First Nations Consultation
Posted May 11, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/epdpa/ipmp/first_nations_cons_guide/index.html
The Ministry has prepared interim draft guidelines that are now to be used by pest
managers as guidance when First Nations consultation is required. These are interim
draft guidelines because the Ministry is commencing a process to work together with
both First Nations and industry to develop the most appropriate consultation procedures
under the IPMA.
Hazardous Waste Regulation Guidance Documents
Posted May 9, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/epdpa/sw/guideline_documents/index.html
These five guideline documents were created to aid hazardous waste generators and
management facilities, consultants and others to manage hazardous waste above the
generator registration quantity (Schedule 6). The documents detail the changes to
the Hazardous Waste Regulation (HWR) along with the requirements for financial security
and plans requiring approval under the HWR.
BC Volunteer Lake Monitoring Program
Posted May 9, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/nor/pollution/environmental/water_quality/index.html
Through a co-operative effort between the B.C. Ministry of Environment, the non-profit
B.C. Lake Stewardship Society and volunteer groups, valuable limnology data were collected
by volunteers on four lakes–Chief Lake, Fraser Lake, Moberly Lake and West Lake–with the
lab funding being provided by the Ministry. This data was analyzed and interpreted by
Ministry staff and summarized in small, easy-to-read brochures.
Summary of EMA Regulatory Amendments – 2006
Posted May 2, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epdiv/env_mgt_act/ema_reg_amend.html
This document provides notice to MoE stakeholders that several minor or "housekeeping" amendments are being proposed to correct errors and clarify the Ministry's policy intent in the Waste Discharge Regulation, the Hazardous Waste Regulation, the Oil and Gas Waste Regulation, the Spill Reporting Regulation, the Ozone Depleting Substances and Other Halocarbons Regulation and the Wood Residue and Incinerator Regulation.
April
Cheakamus River Reports
Evaluation of Alternative Recovery Strategies for the Cheakamus River
(160KB PDF)
Posted April 27, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/esd/documents/mlabelle_report3.pdf
Dr. Marc Labelle was commissioned by the Ministry of Environment to review options for recovery of steelhead that were killed by the spill of caustic soda into the Cheakamus River on August 5, 2005. Labelle recommends a blended approach to recovery using both natural and hatchery stock.
The Case for Wild Steelhead Recovery Without Artificial Fish Culture Intervention
(51.7KB PDF)
Posted April 27, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/esd/documents/wild_and_hatchery_steelhead.pdf
Under the direction and policy of B.C.'s Ministry of Environment, hatcheries generate smolts for release. The resultant angling opportunities are of high value to the provincial economy. The use of hatchery steelhead and catch and release of wild steelhead provides angling benefits, but may also impose risks to wild stocks.
Drinking Water Source Quality Monitoring 2002-03, Parasite
Sampling in Northwest Coastal Communities: Prince Rupert, Terrace and Kitimat
Posted April 6, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/ske/wq/northwest_coastal/index.html
This document is part of a series presenting results of the Ministry of Environment Skeena Region's 2002-04 water quality monitoring program. It assesses surface drinking water sources in Prince Rupert, Terrace and Kitmat. The water quality sampling program (conducted in the fall of 2003) included testing and analysis for Giardia and Cryptosporidium, and results and recommendations for future monitoring are included in this report.
Nitrate-Nitrogen in the Scotch Creek Aquifer: A Measure of Human Impact
Posted April 5, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/gws/scotch_creek/scotch_creek.pdf
Ground water quality monitoring of the Scotch Creek aquifer was undertaken from 1998 to 2005. Data indicated that development / human activity (primarily in-ground sewage disposal) has impacted ground water quality, however, ground water continues to meet Canadian Drinking Water Guidelines. The report endorses completing a Liquid Waste Management Plan and Official Community Plan for the area.
March
Air Quality in Merritt, British Columbia
Posted March 28, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/merritt_aq_report.pdf
This report describes the primary pollutants in Merritt and their effects on health. It also provides a technical analysis of pollutant concentrations and a qualitative estimate of their sources. It recommends that the City of Merritt begin airshed management planning to protect and improve air quality.
Canada-British Columbia Water Quality Monitoring Agreements – 21 Stations
Contaminated Sites Fact Sheet 21 – Requirements for Independent Remediation
Posted March 20, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/epdpa/contam_sites/fact_sheets/fs21.pdf
This fact sheet summarizes the various requirements for independent remediation under the Environmental Management Act and Contaminated Sites Regulation. The ministry is encouraging greater use of this route to cleaning up sites, and the fact sheet is the first document devoted entirely to this approach. It will be linked from a new form which independent remediators will be requested to use when they provide required notice to the ministry.
B.C.'s Ground Water Protection Regulation – What Private Well Owners Should Know
Posted March 16, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/gws/gwpr_for_private_well_owners.pdf
This document is intended for anyone who owns a private water well. It contains information about:
- the standards and requirements set out in the Ground Water Protection Regulation (GWPR),
- the responsibilities of well owners under the GWPR, and
- how to obtain more information.
Site Registry Streamlined - Site Registry User's Guide Improved
Posted March 13, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/epdpa/contam_sites/updates/SR_Streamlined.pdf
This update describes a simplification to Site Registry searches which will
save clients time and money, and eliminate a potential source of frustration
for users. It also describes improvements to the Site Registry User's Guide,
to assist clients in developing the most efficient and cost effective Site
Registry search strategies.
Ambient Water Quality Monitoring in Kilgaard Creek in 2001
GVRD Process to Seek Alternatives to Replace the Cache Creek Landfill — Questions and Answers
Posted March 6, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epdiv/q_a_gvrd.html
Provides information regarding the process currently being undertaken by the
Greater Vancouver Regional District to review alternatives for replacement of
the Cache Creek Landfill which is scheduled to reach capacity in 2008.
An Air Emissions Inventory for Golden, British Columbia
February
Snowmobile-Caribou Surveys within the Quesnel Highlands, Cariboo Region, 2005 Report
Posted February 26, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/car/env_stewardship/ecosystems/index.html
(PDF at the very bottom of the page)
Mountain caribou have been identified as threatened by COSEWIC and as
red-listed (endangered) in B.C. There are concerns about the potential impact of
backcountry activities on mountain caribou winter range. To address this issue, a
voluntary multi-year agreement was entered into with the local snowmobile clubs
from Quesnel, 100 Mile House and Williams Lake, the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands,
and the Ministry of Environment in 2004. This report documents the survey results from
Year 3 of the voluntary management agreement.
Environmental Best Management Practices for Urban and Rural Land Development in
British Columbia: Air Quality BMPs and Supporting Information DRAFT
Posted February 16, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/aqbmps_feb16_06.pdf
These best management practices (BMPs) are intended to minimize the health impacts of air
pollution associated with proximity to major roads. They are in draft form at present, and
will be posted until March 15, 2006 for comments.
What You Need to Know Before You Burn - A Guide for Backyard Burning
Draft Mount Assiniboine Management Plan
Posted February 8, 2006
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/planning/mgmtplns/mt_assini/mt_assinib_ps.html
This draft management plan establishes objectives and strategies
for the long-term management of Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park.
It is intended to provide strategic direction and guidance for park
managers and anyone interested in the management and stewardship of
this park. This draft management plan contains preliminary proposals
that are subject to change and therefore may not necessarily reflect
the position of the Ministry of Environment. At the conclusion of the
planning process a revised management plan will be approved by the
Ministry and posted to this website.
Lakeshore Erosion Hazard Mapping
Posted February 4, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/lakeshore.pdf
This report presents a method for determining and mapping the shoreline
erosion hazard around a lake and suggests appropriate protection measures.
It is meant to help lakeshore owners and planners choose where to place their
protection efforts, and offers alternatives that will help maintain the
ecological integrity of the land-water interface, while protecting property
and property owners. The report describes the methodology for determining and
mapping lakeshore erosion hazards and contains a conceptual tool kit for
dealing with erosion where it occurs in a manner that retains some of the
biological integrity of the lakeshore.
Assessment of Changes in Total Phosphorus in Burns Lake East & West Basins, B.C.: A Paleolimnological Assessment
Assessment of Changes in Total Phosphorus in Decker Lake West, B.C.: A Paleolimnological Assessment
Particulate Matter Source Apportionment in Golden, British Columbia
Posted February 3, 2006
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/kor/epd/golden_source_app/golden_source_app.pdf
This report summarizes the science of source apportionment and, specifically, how this
science will be applied in the two-year source apportionment study in Golden, British
Columbia. The goals of the Golden study are to better understand the air quality in the
airshed, and thereby help develop strategies for an airshed management plan.
January
Hazardous Waste Legislation Guide
December
Geomorphology of Vancouver Island: Extended Legends to Nine Thematic Maps
Posted December, 2005
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/techpub/rr02/rr02_geom_vi.html
This document presents a series of nine 1:100,000 based thematic maps
that collectively describe the physical nature of Vancouver Island.
The nine maps are: (1) Vancouver Island Bedrock Geology,
(2) Vancouver Island Surficial Geology,
(3) Vancouver Island Coastal Geomorphology,
(4) Vancouver Island Fluvial Processes,
(5) Vancouver Island Gullying,
(6) Vancouver Island Snow Avalanche,
(7) Vancouver Island Karst Potential,
(8) Vancouver Island Wetlands and Organic Soils, and
(9) Vancouver Island Mass Wasting.
The extended legends describe the context around each of the maps
and give more detail to the legends.
Geomorphology of Vancouver Island: Mass Wasting Potential
Posted December, 2005
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/techpub/rr01/rr01_geom_vi.html
This document describes the Mass Wasting Potential of Vancouver Island and the results of regionalized landslide potential. Vancouver Island has been divided into four major zones: the Wet West Coast, the Moderately Wet Central Island, the Moderately Dry East Coast and the Alpine (zones I-IV, respectively). This document was produced in conjunction with the Ministry of Environment publication Geomorphology of Vancouver Island: Extended Legends to Nine Thematic Maps.
Addendum to Tire Intentions Paper - Retailer Registration Requirement
Posted December 28, 2005
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/epdpa/ips/recreg/index.html
In October 2005, the Ministry of Environment issued an Intentions Paper
outlining the Ministry's intentions regarding adding a schedule for tires
to the Recycling Regulation. The Intentions Paper provided information on
the intended scope of products to be covered in a schedule to the
regulation, and implementation timing. Stakeholders were invited to
review the document and provide their comments on the initiative by
November 15, 2005.
The purpose of this addendum is to provide information on the Ministry's
proposal to add a retailer registration requirement to the proposed
schedule for tires.
Understanding Air Quality in Golden, British Columbia
Posted December 8, 2005
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/kor/epd/golden_brochure/golden_brochure.pdf
This brochure provides an overview of a study the Ministry of Environment and
its partners have undertaken to understand the sources of particulate matter
in the Golden airshed. The study results will lead to a plan aimed at improving
air quality in the community.
November
Magnitude-Duration Based Water Quality Objectives for Turbidity and
Temperature in Millionaire Creek: Summary Report
Posted November 30, 2005
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/eq/wq_trend_monitoring/millionaire_cr/millionaire_objectives.pdf
This report assesses water quality data collected at Ministry
automated water quality monitoring stations on Millionaire Creek
in Maple Ridge, B.C. The report also recommends water quality
objectives should the Ministry decide to establish water quality
objectives for the creek. The report is based on work detailed in
a technical report entitled Magnitude-Duration Based Ecological Risk
Assessment for Turbidity and Chronic Temperature Impacts: Method
Development and Application to Millionaire Creek.
Magnitude-Duration Based Ecological Risk Assessment for Turbidity
and Chronic Temperature Impacts: Method Development and Application
to Millionaire Creek
Posted November 30, 2005
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/eq/wq_trend_monitoring/millionaire_cr/millionaire_technical.pdf
This is a supporting document to the Magnitude-Duration Based
Water Quality Objectives for Turbidity and Temperature in
Millionaire Creek: Summary Report. This technical document
discusses the assessment methodologies used in the summary report.
As this information is very technical, it was decided to have it
discussed in a separate document rather than putting it in a lengthy
introduction or appendices in the summary report document.
Survey of Pesticide Use in British Columbia: 2003
Posted November 28, 2005
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/epdpa/ipmp/tech_reports.html
This report is the 4th in a series that presents data on pesticide use and sales
compiled from annual summaries submitted by pest control companies and pesticide
dealers to the Ministry of Environment. The reports indicate trends in types of
pesticides and quantities being used in B.C.
Water Quality Assessment and Objectives:
Desolation Sound — Overview and Technical Report
Posted November 23, 2005
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/eq/wq_monitoring/desolation/tech_99_04.html
The document is one in a series that presents ambient water quality objectives for British Columbia.
It has two parts: an overview and the full technical report. The overview provides general information
about water quality in Desolation Sound. It is intended both for technical readers and readers who
may not be familiar with the process of setting water quality objectives. The main report presents
the details of the water quality assessment for this water body and forms the basis of the
recommendations and objectives presented in the overview.
Whistler Valley Water Quality Monitoring Program: Preliminary Assessment
Posted November 10, 2005
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/eq/wq_trend_monitoring/whistler_valley/index.html
The River of Golden Dreams (ROGD) watershed encompasses approximately 48 square
kilometres within the Whistler Valley, with a variety of land uses (e.g.,
residential and commercial development, transportation infrastructure, recreational
use, etc.) occurring within the watershed. The watershed resources contribute
significantly to the area's economy by attracting visitors interested in fishing,
swimming, canoeing and other recreational opportunities. In December 2001, the Resort
Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) developed a Watershed Management Plan (WMP) for the
ROGD. This plan defines a vision "to protect and restore aquatic and terrestrial
ecosystems from the pressures of land use and human activities within the watershed".
In working towards this vision, the WMP calls for increased information on baseline
conditions and the detection of areas of concern — these will provide a foundation
for effective mitigation.
In 2002, the British Columbia Ministry of Environment (MoE) installed automated
water quality monitors on the ROGD and on Crabapple Creek, a tributary to ROGD.
These stations monitor stream temperature, conductivity, pH, dissolved oxygen,
turbidity, and water level near-continuously. Automated temperature sensors
(thermistors) were installed in nearby Whistler Creek. The automated water quality
monitoring program is supplemented with grab-sampling for investigation of a wider
variety of parameters than can be conducted with automated monitoring alone. The
intent of the sampling program is to i) provide decision makers with data to
feedback into the ROGD Watershed Management Plan, and ii) collect data for the
development of Water Quality Objectives within the ROGD watershed.
The objective of this report is to summarize and assess data collected to date,
and to make recommendations on how monitoring might be improved so that the
program meets its objectives.
Water Quality Assessment and Objectives:
Okeover Inlet — Overview and Technical Report
Posted November 10, 2005
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/eq/wq_monitoring/okeover_inlet/tech_99_04.html
The document is one in a series that presents ambient water quality objectives for
British Columbia. It has two parts: an overview and the full technical report. The
overview provides general information about water quality in Okeover Inlet. It is
intended both for technical readers and readers who may not be familiar with the
process of setting water quality objectives. The main report presents the details
of the water quality assessment for this water body and forms the basis of the
recommendations and objectives presented in the overview.
Water Quality Assessment and Objectives for
Toboggan Creek and Tributaries: Technical Report
Posted November 3, 2005
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/ske/wq/toboggan/index.html
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/wq_objectives.html#tech_docs
The purpose of this report is to assess the water quality and aquatic ecosystem
data gathered to-date and to recommend water quality objectives specific to the
Toboggan Creek watershed. Designated water uses, to be protected by water quality
objectives, are drinking water, recreation, fisheries and aquatic life, livestock
watering and irrigation.
A number of ecosystem indicator tools were employed in this study. Monthly water
quality monitoring was conducted at eight sites in the Toboggan Creek watershed
in August 2001-2002. Periphyton biomass and community composition monitoring was
conducted in September 2001 and again in September 2002. Benthic macroinvertebrate
stream health index monitoring was completed in September 2001. A Land and Use Survey,
which could be completed anonymously, was distributed to water license holders in the
watershed in 2001. The survey was designed to help determine livestock headage and
agricultural management practices, quantities of water used by agriculture and residents,
and what license holders felt were key issues associated with their water licenses and
the local streams.
Drinking Water Source Quality Monitoring 2002-03: Lakelse Lake and Mountain Creek Surface Water and Jackpine Flats Ground Water
Posted November 1, 2005
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/ske/wq/lakelse_mtn_jackpine/index.html
This document is part of a series presenting results of the Ministry of Environment
Skeena Region's 2002-04 water quality monitoring program. It assesses drinking
water sources in the Lakelse Lake and Jackpine Flats area near Terrace, B.C. The
summaries (one for each of Lakelse Lake and Jackpine Flats) have been produced for
the general public, while the report and data appendix are geared towards users
looking for technical information.
October
A Primer on the Guidelines for Air Quality Dispersion Modelling in British Columbia
Water Quality Objectives Attainment Monitoring in Burrard Inlet in 2002
Posted October 31, 2005
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/eq/wq_monitoring/burrard_inlet/index.html
This report presents the results of monitoring undertaken in 2002 to check the
attainment of Burrard Inlet water quality objectives that were set in 1990.
These objectives were set to protect aquatic life, wildlife and recreation.
They were developed in response to the Greater Vancouver Regional District
initiating the preparation of a liquid waste management plan in 1985.
Comprehensive water quality monitoring in Burrard Inlet was last conducted
by the Ministry in 1993 and 1994.
Assessment of Compliance with Selected Sections of the
Municipal Sewage
Regulation of the Environmental Management Act
Posted October 20, 2005
http://wlapwww.gov.bc.ca/sry/p2/compliance_assess/compl_msr.html
This study is a compliance assessment of 14 wastewater treatment plants
in the Lower Mainland Region that was completed in the fall of 2004 by
Ministry of Environment staff. The assessment quantified the degree of
compliance these treatment plants had with several administrative requirements
of the Municipal Sewage Regulation of the Environmental Management Act. The
study only looks at those operations that were under construction or operating
and that were registered under the regulation.
Water Quality Objectives for Okanagan Lake: A First Update and Overview Report
Posted October 19, 2005
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/objectives/oklakes_update_over/index.html
This document is designed to be an update and expansion of a report produced by the Ministry in 1985.
The 1985 report recommended water quality objectives for all the main stem lakes in the Okanagan Valley
for one indicator only — the spring phosphorus concentration. This report confines itself to Okanagan
Lake, but recommends water quality objectives for additional parameters to provide guidance for
long-term water quality protection.
Electronic Waste Intentions Paper + Tire Intentions Paper
Posted October 18, 2005
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/epdpa/ips/recreg/index.html
The Ministry of Environment intends to regulate tires and electronic equipment
under the provincial Recycling Regulation. The Recycling Regulation will be expanded
through the addition of two new product category schedules, one each for tires and
electronic equipment. The Ministry has prepared two Intentions Papers to provide
information on its intentions regarding the proposed schedules.
2004-05 Director's Report for the Beverage Container Program
Posted October 12, 2005
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/epdpa/ips/bev/reports/bev2004_05.html
The beverage container schedule of the Recycling Regulation encompasses all
containers of ready-to-drink beverages, except for milk, milk substitutes,
infant formula and meal replacements. The regulation requires a seller of
beverages to collect a deposit from the purchaser, specifies the minimum
amount of the deposit and requires sellers and/or depots to accept containers
and pay a refund per container not less than the amount of the deposit collected.
Containers are managed in accordance with three stewardship plans approved under
the regulation.
In 2004-05, the overall recovery rate was
81.3%, down 2.5% from 83.8% in 2003-04.
September
Golden Source Apportionment Study: Quality Assurance Project Plan
Posted September, 2005
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/goldenqaqc_june%2005.pdf
The purpose of this document is to provide a quality assurance / quality control framework for the Golden source apportionment study, from 2004 to 2006. Quality assurance for a field program such as the Golden speciation study integrates quality control, audits and measurement validation.
Best Management Practices to Mitigate Road Dust from Winter Traction Materials
Posted September, 2005
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/roaddustbmp_june05.pdf
Winter traction materials are applied to snow-covered and icy roadways to make
them safe for travelling. But while protecting road safety, these materials can
contribute to air pollution by stirring up road dust — including fine particulate
matter, which is a significant health threat. The ministry has developed this
"best management practices" document to help local governments, planners and road-maintenance crews.
July
Guidelines for Air Quality Dispersion Modelling in British Columbia (Draft)
Posted July, 2005
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/air/airquality/pdfs/airdispmodelguide_july%2005.pdf
These guidelines provide recommended practices for dispersion
modelling in British Columbia. The practices are to help ensure
modelling is appropriate for the needs of the application, applied
correctly and consistently using accepted scientific techniques —
and used in a way that reliably informs air quality management decisions.
This is a draft for the user community to test and comment on before it
is finalized (expected to occur in July 2006).
