CPAWS-BC statement on Site C decision
Vancouver, BC – The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society’s British Columbia chapter (CPAWS-BC) is deeply disappointed by today’s announcement from the BC government that construction will proceed on the Site C dam. CPAWS-BC supports the challenges brought forward by the West Moberly and Prophet River First Nations, on whose territories the dam is being built and whose rights are threatened by the project.
The Site C dam will flood important local ecosystems, as well as jeopardize protected areas throughout BC and northern Canada, including Wood Buffalo National Park. The project further endangers key wildlife habitat and migration corridors that stretch from Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming to the Yukon (Y2Y). Large protected areas are vital for people and wildlife, and also play a key role in our ability to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
CPAWS-BC invites members of the public to express their support for the West Moberly and Prophet River Nations, and by calling on their government representatives to respect Indigenous rights and title.
For more on the Site C decision, from groups who are working closely on this issue:
Sage Legal Indigenous Rights Lawyers
Peace Valley Environmental Association
Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative
Wilderness Committee