VANCOUVER - Two Kamloops logging companies were fined a total of $17,500 after they were convicted under the Fisheries Act for destroying fish habitat on a tributary of the North Thompson River, Fisheries and Oceans Canada announced today.

B.C. Provincial Court in Kamloops convicted EJB Enterprises Inc. and Safe Enterprises Ltd. for the destruction and removal of 550 metres of riparian (streamside) vegetation along Haggard Creek in the summer of 2000. EJB Enterprises was also convicted of failing to comply with an Inspector's Direction under the Fisheries Act.

Haggard Creek supports coho salmon and cutthroat and rainbow trout. The creek is part of the North Thompson River system, home to endangered Thompson coho stocks.

The logging that resulted in the offence occurred on private land owned by EJB Enterprises. The Department would like to remind the public that logging on private land is subject to the habitat protection provisions of the Fisheries Act. 

Riparian vegetation adjacent to rivers, streams and foreshores is vital for fish habitat because it shades the water, provides cover and protection for fish, stabilizes streambanks, prevents erosion and contributes to the aquatic food chain. 

The court ordered EJB Enterprises to pay $17,000 and Safe Enterprises to pay $500. Of the total fine, $1,500 will be paid to the court and $16,000 will be paid to Fisheries and Oceans Canada to be used for restoration, enhancement and education projects that will benefit fish in the North Thompson River system. 

The Department asks for assistance from the general public for information on activities of this nature or any contravention of the Fisheries Act or regulations. Anyone with information can call the toll-free violation reporting line at 1-800-465-4336.

Contact:

Cliff Todd
Fishery Officer
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Kamloops, B.C.
(250) 851-4877