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Catalyst Crofton-managed water pumping into Cochiwan River begins mid-September

Paper Excellence shared in a press statement that due to extremely dry conditions, pumping water from Cowichan Lake into Cowichan River begins as early as September 11 depending on rainfall. Water will be pumped at a rate designed to maintain current flow conditions in the Cowichan River, approximately 4.5 cms (cubic metres per second).

Authorized by BC Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, Catalyst Crofton will manage the pumping. Pumping will occur until water levels naturally restore themselves later this fall.

“Best efforts will be made to minimize any impacts from water pumping to protect the Cowichan River and the Lake,” explains Brian Houle, Catalyst Crofton environment manager. “We have engaged authorities and consultants to provide oversite and surveillance during pumping operations.”

The Cowichan Basin has experienced fourteen droughts since 1998. A winter with below-average snowpack followed by a drought beginning in mid-May are the root causes of this year’s conditions. This has reportedly led to low lake levels and reduced flows which now requires water pumping of Cowichan Lake into the river to preserve the river and its habitat.

To protect those using lake and river, a local guide familiar with Cowichan Lake will deploy buoys to highlight any new hazards to navigation.

“Catalyst Crofton has been collaboratively managing Cowichan River since 2002 with First Nations, local government and other key stakeholders,” states Bruce Eby, Catalyst Crofton general manager. “While curtailed, the mill’s water requirements are significantly reduced. However, we continue to work with our partners on our shared priorities of habitat protection of the Cowichan River and the water supply for the town of Crofton.”