Summerland's perpetual slide continues to degrade Trout Creek

Photo: Contributed

A perpetual slide is causing concerns about the Trout Creek fish habitat below it. 

An area of Summerland that has been slowly sliding for a century is causing problems for the Trout Creek fish habitat, and a new study on the area will hopefully narrow down options for a solution. 

In January 2018, a borehole investigation began, conducted by Golder Associates Ltd. Four holes were drilled at the top of the slide area, which is approximately 125 metres from the Trout Creek bed 

"There haven't been defined or definite result that show where that slip plane is, and that was the goal of the boreholes," explained Kris Johnson, director of works and utilities. 

He is hopeful that the full study will be finished after one more sample taken in May or June, with findings ready to present to council in the summer with a recommendation on how to move forward.

Johnson noted some already available data, that over the last three and a half years, there has been eight to nine inches of settling along Paradise and Canyon View roads. 

The Penticton Indian Band expressed in a letter to council serious concerns that the slide activity is dumping sediment into Trout Creek and damaging the local fish habitat, and urging the District of Summerland to take action.

"[The slide] results in continuously elevated suspended sediment levels, reduced water quality, embedded spawning gravels and often blocks fish passage at the mouth of the creek," they wrote. 

As for a potential solution, Johnson said he does not have a simple answer and that much will depend on the final findings of the survey. 

Possible options include sediment basins, or wells to intercept groundwater before it reaches the slide area. 

Another finding expected in the fall is whether the slide has the potential to become suddenly "catastrophic," which will inform the District's emergency preparedness plans for the area.