From: on behalf of Panel Registry Subject: FW: TNG registration of ...

Concluding Comments
The proposed compensation system is to be composed of a
headwater collection channel, a headwater channel retention pond, a
seasonal spawning and rearing channel, and an artificial lake. These
constitute a complex of functionally interconnected components all
of which must work each year. All must be able to accommodate
hydraulic and hydrologic conditions. They must also provide
appropriate thermal conditions. These needs must be met in order
that the mitigation/compensation requirements are met. This
complex system must work in perpetuity.
The proposed spawning/rearing channel and Prosperity Lake
do not come near to making up for the loss of Fish Lake, Little Fish
Lake and the outlet and two inlet streams that would be destroyed
by the mine.
We have been able to construct components of fish habitat
with some degree of success. However, we may be guilty of hubris if
we believe that we can re-construct functional biological systems as
they exist as parts of natural geomorphological and hydrological
elements of the landscape.
For many people, trout fishing in B.C. goes beyond the
experience of simply going out in a boat and catching fish. An
important part of the fishing experience, for such people, involves
being in an attractive natural environment. An artificial lake, with
either a 1.6 km dyke for a north shore, or such a lake with an
extension into a tailings pond, does not meet such requirements. It
most certainly does not fulfill the experience expectations of native
people, who have fishing, hunting and deeper connections with Fish
Lake. These are based on long term use and connection to the land.
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