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Shuswap River process clarified

RDNO approved a policy statement for the Shuswap River motorized vessel management mediation process
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Local officials want to ensure there’s no confusion over possible boat regulations on the Shuswap River.

On Wednesday, the Regional District of North Okanagan board approved a policy statement for the Shuswap River motorized vessel management mediation process.

“It covers everything off,” said Herman Halvorson, director.

“It’s very clear what will happen.”

The policy statement states that the regional district is:

1. Desirous to reduce risk to public safety and the environment through increased management

of motorized vessels on the river. This may or may not include making recommendations to

Transport Canada.

2. Open to a range of options including, but not limited to those identified in the Shuswap River

Watershed Sustainability Plan.

3. Committed to follow the consensus advice from a public advisory group that represents the

range of stakeholders and perspectives subject to:

a. Reasonable cost implications of the recommendations;

b. Effective representation of the full spectrum of public interests;

c. Opportunities for broad public input have been provided;

d. First Nations have been consulted or directly involved.

“This process will develop recommendations for management of motorized vessels on the lower Shuswap River between Mara Lake and Mabel Lake and the upper Shuswap between Mabel Lake and the headwaters,” said Rob Smailes, general manager of planning and building, in a report.

A consultant is currently working with various community representatives to try and find a resolution to the issue.