Description:
This report includes annual monitoring and maintenance activities and results from 2023 for the three wetland restoration sites that were part of the Bonanza Wetlands Enhancement Project (BoWEP). The three sites are Hunter Siding, Upper Bonanza and Summit Lake Marsh. Hunter Siding restoration was implemented and completed in Fall 2020, while Summit Lake Marsh and Upper Bonanza were completed in the Fall of 2021. The overarching objective of the BoWEP centred on the enhancement of three wetland/riparian sections along Bonanza Creek to restore hydrologic and ecological processes that have deteriorated over time through historic disturbances. The restoration team deployed a nature-based approach with the goal of enhancing hydrologic connectivity and habitat continuity. Over time, these wetland restorations will provide long-term ecological benefits through improved water flow and enhanced aquatic and terrestrial (wildlife) habitats which will create a healthier wetland-riparian system and wildlife corridor. Overall, the three wetland restoration projects that were part of the BoWEP have been very successful. Continued partnership with the Okanagan Nation Alliance, Kootenay Conservation Program and the Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society (CKISS) would help to bring a wide set of expertise and perspectives together to help guide further work with this project.

Keywords: wetlands; riparian; restoration; monitoring

Authors:

Organization: Slocan Lake Stewardship Society

Category: Wetland Enhancement

Focal Area: Bonanza

Resource Type: Report

Year: 2024