The Fisheries Sensitive Watershed Order F 5-001 pertains to the Horsefly River Watershed in British Columbia, specifically within the Cariboo-Chilcotin Forest District. This designation is aimed at protecting sensitive aquatic environments, particularly for various salmon species and other fish.

FSW Order F 5-001 Objectives

  • The F-5001 Order, initiated in 2018, aims to maintain natural hydrological conditions and protect habitats for species like Sockeye, Kokanee, Chinook, and Coho salmon, as well as Bull and Rainbow trout.
  • In response to declining water quality attributed to increased agricultural and industrial activities, stakeholders from the Horsefly River Roundtable have called for a moratorium on industrial forest operations within this watershed.

Key Features of the Order

  • The F-5001 designation imposes specific principles and practices that are intended to prevent habitat degradation and ensure the preservation of the natural ecosystem.
  • The Horsefly River Roundtable, formed in 2008, advocates for sustainable practices and engages stakeholders from various sectors, including government, First Nations, and the public.

Recent Developments

  • In April 2023, the Roundtable sent a letter requesting further actions to uphold the objectives of the F-5001 Order, highlighting concerns about increasing siltation and land degradation.
  • An open house event was held on October 14, 2023, to discuss ongoing issues and community input aimed at enhancing watershed health.

The Roundtable has proposed several initiatives to improve watershed management, including:

  • Implementing a moratorium on all industrial activities that may harm water quality.
  • Increasing monitoring and reporting on watershed health.
  • Engaging the community through regular dialogues about conservation efforts.
 

Official FSW Order F 5-001

Order – Fisheries Sensitive Watershed – Cariboo-Chilcotin Forest District

Fisheries Sensitive Watershed Map FSW Number f5-001

FSW: Default-objectives and Designation Procedure
Government Actions Regulation and Environmental Protection and Management Regulation
December 2017

 

Horsefly River Roundtable Letters sent to ministry decision makers

Minister Ralston et al January 3 2024 – Re: Horsefly River Fisheries Sensitive Watershed Designation FR-5-001

Horsefly River Roundtable Letter To John Pressey December 2023

Moratorium on all industrial forest related activities including Road Permits within the Horsefly River Fisheries Sensitive Watershed

 

PDF Support Documents:

Fisheries Sensitive Watershed Procedures – Horsefly River Watershed as a Candidate April 15, 2010
Secwepemcul’ecw – Connectivity Remediation Plan 2021 – 2040