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Letter by Carmel Thomson sent on June 10, 2024
to Saanich Mayor and Council:

Subject: H3 — UBCM Resolution — BC Hydro Projects — Establishment of Funding for Climate Action Ecosystem Restoration

Dear Mayor Murdoch and Councillors, 

In early 2023, when the appearance of blue dots on trees along Prospect Lake Road draws the attention of residents, Saanich and residents learn about the BC Hydro project involving the removal of approximately 485 trees along a road length of less than 4km. 

Since then, BC Hydro has been the focus of numerous attempts by Council, Mayor and Parks Staff to respect Saanich’s Urban Forest Strategy and Climate Action Plan, to follow the municipality’s replacement tree policy/compensation program and to restore damaged ecosystems. 

Amidst a backdrop of accelerating climatic uncertainty, we learn BC Hydro is not mandated to provide replacement trees or ecosystem restoration. Critical ecosystems are being damaged and disappearing, yet BC Hydro fails to allocate a budget for eco-restoration in its projects. 

We further learn, BC Hydro practices do not comply with the province’s Climate Action mandate, which is surprising given it is committed to adapting electrical servicing and infrastructure to the effects of Climate Change.

Our urban forests are a public natural resource. They are essential. BC Hydro must make adjustments to its practices for their restoration and long-term sustainability. I therefore offer my support for the UBCM resolution put forth by the Natural Areas, Parks and Trails Advisory Committee.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT UBCM recommend the Province of BC mandate an amendment to the BC Hydro and Power Authority Act to incorporate a budget for Climate Action Ecosystem Restoration as well as technologies that support tree retention and/or re-planting, in all its projects, thus demonstrating the province’s commitment to its nature-based 2030 Climate Change targets. 

Please support this resolution and provide the best outcome for our urban forest and to ensure Saanich remains climate resilient.

Sincerely. 

Carmel Thomson

Prospect Lake Road