Evidence on the Adequacy of First Nations Consultation - BC Hydro ...

3 – Consultation Assessment
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BC Hydro acknowledges that First Nations have expressed important concerns about
access based on the view that cleared right of ways may make it easier for the public
(hunters, fishers, and recreational users) to access otherwise remote areas which may,
in turn, affect the availability of important animal resources. Some of the proposed
accommodation measures are described earlier in this supplemental filing. BC Hydro
notes there is considerable existing development in the area (existing communities,
business and industry, farms, ranches and homes) and infrastructure (transmission lines,
substations and existing roads). BC Hydro has committed to working with the KNC and
the appropriate government agencies to alleviate the KNC’s concerns in this regard to
the extent possible.
Ongoing vegetation clearing and maintenance may affect First Nation interests,
although these activities will occur within the right‐of‐ways and therefore will be of
limited geographical scope.
Facilities maintenance (towers, line, and substations) will likely have low long‐term
impacts.
3.3 Other Factors
Other factors that have informed the consultation analysis in the context of this
Application include:
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(a)
The transmission line component of the Project is a greenfield project (as opposed
to the expansion or reinforcement of an existing facility);
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(b)
There will be a material change in the use of Crown land along the transmission
line right of way in particular;
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(c)
The Project will not traverse any existing First Nation communities or reserves;
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(d)
There are existing transmission lines and substations in the upper Columbia Valley;
BCTC Columbia Valley Transmission Project – <strong>Evidence</strong> on Adequacy of First Nations Consultation 15
7 May 2010