Project to restore wetlands

Photo: Contributed

A wetlands project on Kamloops' Hillside Drive will expand a stormwater basin and restore wetlands in the area.

In conjunction with grants from the National Wetlands Conservation Fund, the city began work on the Dufferin basin stormwater detention area this past week. 

Once restored, the wetlands will improve habitat for waterfowl, amphibians, raptors and pollinators. The wetlands will also help replenish groundwater, clean runoff from urban areas, and reduce flooding during storm events.

The project will begin with removing man-made structures and excavating four basins. Site preparation will include grading, swales, and berms and the placement of snags and coarse woody debris.

Later in the spring, crews will plant native vegetation and seed disturbed areas.