Ross Lake Water Level
Overview
Who: BC Parks
What: Public feedback on the impacts of changes to the water level in Ross Lake Park
Where: Ross Lake Park
Why: To determine if or how water level changes have impacted recreation
How: Online
Engagement summary and background
BC Parks wants your feedback on recent changes to the water level in Ross Lake Provincial Park.
A dam was built on the north end of Ross Lake in the early 1900s. After a wet summer and fall in 2020, the outlet plugged and the lake flooded, posing a threat to the Bulkley River downstream. BC Parks consulted with Gitxsan, Hazelton, and regulatory authorities. Following consultation, environmental and engineering studies determined how to safely remediate the dam without harming the fish, birds, and amphibians that call the park home. In fall 2022, a construction crew removed the earthen dam and the lake is now approximately 30cm to 45cm (12” to 18”) lower.
Ross Lake remains open to the public. In addition to more exposed beach in the day use area, the fishing pier and boat launch have become steeper than before. BC Parks is continuing amphibian monitoring studies to assess the impacts of the new lake level on wildlife.
Visit the BC Parks webpage for more information.
How your contribution makes a difference
BC Parks wants to hear from park users to better understand if or how the changes may have impacted recreational values like fishing, swimming, and boating at Ross Lake. Staff will use your feedback to help guide future works so the park protects environmental values and remains a great place for people to enjoy. All feedback from this survey will be reviewed, analyzed, and incorporated into future plans for Ross Lake Provincial Park.
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