FORT ST. JOHN: Treaty 8 First Nations, the B.C. Conservation Officer Service and BC Hydro have partnered to create a new conservation officer position to protect wildlife and the land around the Site C dam and future reservoir area. 

The new conservation officer will patrol against illegal poaching and fishing, respond to human-wildlife conflict, and liaise with First Nation governments and local law enforcement. The new officer will also attend community events and work with local schools. 

The goal of the position will be to promote compliance, protect natural resources and enhance public safety through education and enforcement. The new role will also take into consideration Indigenous traditional laws and customs.

The work of the new conservation officer will be managed by a team of local Indigenous representatives and the B.C. Conservation Officer Service. BC Hydro is funding the five-year position through the Site C project.

The B.C. Conservation Officer Service oversees compliance and enforcement activities relating to natural resources, fish and wildlife in this area, which is of significant cultural importance to Indigenous peoples.

Contact

BC Hydro Media Relations
p. 604 928 6468

BC Conservation Officer Service
Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy 
Media Relations
p. 250-953-3834

Chief Darlene Hunter of Halfway River First Nation (left) and BC Conservation Officer Juliana Damert (right)

Conservation Officer working group members (left to right): Charmayne Brinkworth (Doig River First Nation); Ryan Mckay (Saulteau First Nation); BC Conservation Officer Juliana Damert; Naomi Owens-Beek (Saulteau First Nation); Roslyn Notseta (Halfway River First Nation) and Maggie McDonald (Moberly Lake Indian Band)