June 17th, 2023 – BC Government News

Containment barriers on the Fraser River that have been intercepting debris for more than 40 years are now under a co-management agreement between the Province and the Shxw’ōwhámél First Nation.

The Fraser River Debris Trap Co-Management Agreement is the first of its kind in B.C. that formally recognizes both the Province and the Shxw’ōwhámél First Nation as collaboratively overseeing provincially owned infrastructure.

Located between Hope and Agassiz, the Fraser River Debris Trap reduces the volume of woody material flowing into the lower reaches of the Fraser River and Salish Sea. Without the debris trap, this material would pose a danger to human safety, navigation and downstream infrastructure. The debris trap also keeps B.C. clean by intercepting other waste, such as plastics, propane tanks, abandoned boats and other floating debris.

“This first-of-its-kind agreement is another step forward in advancing reconciliation with First Nations by recognizing and respecting the Shxw’ōwhámél’s jurisdiction, management, authority and responsibilities within its territory,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “The Fraser River Debris Trap is a vital component for preventing damage along the river and exploring economic opportunities, which are shared interests of the Province and the Shxw’ōwhámél people.”

Read the full article at news.gov.bc.ca.