Caring for Habitat – On the Job
As part of construction and maintenance we often have to work in habitats that are sensitive to human impacts:
- Weeds often invade a site after land has been cleared.
- Heavy machinery causes soil compaction making it hard to re-establish plants.
- Work in and around creeks can damage fish spawning habitat.
- Fertilizers and pesticides from lawns and crops can leach into wetlands and watercourses and impact water quality.
It is often difficult to know the potential impact of work in sensitive habitat or if there are regulations pertaining to these areas. The following pamphlets give an overview of four habitats common in the South Okanagan and Similkameen, the rare species they support, and regulations or best management practices that pertain to these areas. For more detailed information, please contact your local municipality or regional district planning department or the Ministry of Environment.
- Working in grasslands (PDF).
- Working in wetlands (PDF).
- Working in riparian areas (PDF).
- Working in watercourses (PDF).
Construction and development
Land developed for housing can have a significant impact on the natural environment. There are also opportunities to create sensitive developments: