Current staff recently assisted with the installation of a new bridge over Morrison Creek in Puntledge Park. The project was initiated by the City of Courtenay to replace an aging, undersized culvert that would frequently become blocked and pose a barrier to fish passage. Our role included obtaining permitting under the Federal Species at Risk Act and Provincial Water Sustainability Act, implementing fish isolation and salvage in partnership with the Morrison Creek Streamkeepers, and environmental monitoring of in-stream construction works. Many coho fry and lamprey ammocetes (larvae) were salvaged and safely relocated prior to construction.

The new bridge is ready just in time for the fall salmon run and is a great spot to watch returning pink, coho, chum and chinook! Thanks to the City of Courtenay Parks Department and the Morrison Creek Streamkeepers for partnering on this great project. Read a short article about the project and the creek here.