Monitoring and managing water quality in the Shuswap is the focus of the newly created Shuswap Watershed Council.
The council is an offshoot of the Shuswap Lake Integrated Planning Process that had multiple objectives and is coming to an end on March 31. Water quality monitoring will continue through 2014.
The new council is seeking public input as it develops a water quality program for 2015 and beyond.
“The members of the steering committee have developed a program outline based on what we think is needed in the Shuswap to protect the water quality and ensure safe recreation on the lakes,” says Columbia Shuswap Regional District Area C director Paul Demenok, noting the vision has always been a program created in the Shuswap, by the people of the Shuswap, for the Shuswap. “We are ready to present the outline to the public and get their feedback on it.”
Before the council moves ahead, members are looking to the public for their input on the objectives and strategies.
The terms of reference that outline the program can be read online at www.shuswapwater.com.
Everyone is encouraged to read the three-page document and complete a brief survey located at the same website. Survey respondents may enter a draw to win a $150 gift certificate to a Shuswap-based business of their choice.