Witset Canyon Connection Project for Witset, BC

The proposed project involves the construction of a new multi-use path along Hwy 16 between the community of Witset and the Canyon and smoke house which are frequently used for cultural activities and traditional fishing practices.  This trail is ~470 m in length x ~3 m wide. The project works will include

• Clearing and grubbing of trees and brush along the proposed trail route (~1710 m²)
• Stripping organic soils from the footprint of the trail.
• Shaping the trail sub-grade by cutting and filling. Some import sub-grade fill will be required.
• Supply and Installation of non-woven geotextile & geogrid where the native soils are non-optimal.
• Supply and installation of the trail structure which includes 250 mm of 75 mm minus SGSB, 150 mm minus WGB and 50 mm of asphalt pavement.
• Re-vegetative seeding in all disturbed areas.
• Supply and installation of battery powered solar lighting which includes; light fixture, davit arm and pre-cast concrete base.
• Supply and installation of rest benches along the trail route accompanied by bear proof garbage cans.
• Supply and installation of an eco-counter for data collection of trail usage.
• Supply and installation of signs along the trail and on adjacent roads.
• Removal and relocation of existing signs that conflict with the proposed trail route.
• Line painting for trail centerline and road crossings.
• Drainage culverts
• Installation of Signage (13), benches (3) and animal proof garbage bins

The project will include vegetation clearing (~1410 m²) and will require some excavation. The project is on Federal Lands, specifically within the Moricetown No. 1 reserve of the Witset First Nation.  There are works over/near an unnamed creek at the North end of the project works, however this creek appears to be seasonal and is already diverted through a culvert under Highway 16. Given this, it is unlikely that there will be impacts during construction.  The project is within a Provincial Right-of-Way along Hwy 16 in BC and has received a permit to work within that right-of-way. Two sites of historical significance have been identified in an archaeological investigation performed in December 2021, these sites are adjacent to project works, but are unlikely to be adversely affected.