In northeastern British Columbia, near the middle of the Y2Y region, the Peace River Break stands out as a critical connection zone. This is also one of the few east-west links in the region. These geographic attributes make the Peace River Break vital to Y2Y's Grizzly Bear Conservation Strategy. If the last remaining wildlife corridors are squeezed shut in this fast-growing area, southern grizzly bear populations could be permanently cut off from populations in the north.

BC Hydro has resurrected, and is pushing ahead with, controversial plans for a huge dam on the Peace River. First proposed in the 1970s, and strongly opposed by area residents and ranchers, the Site C Dam has been on-again, off-again, four different times. If built, the facility would be the third massive dam in a series along the river. The dam could effectively put the final crimp in the Peace River Break,potentially impeding the movement of grizzly bears and other animals. Results would also include the potential degradation of water quality, and the loss of farmland as well as significant habitat loss for moose, deer, bull trout, and other wildlife species.

• Y2Y is collaborating with environmental non-governmental organizations, First Nations communities, outfitters, farmers, researchers, and other concerned individuals to challenge construction of the Site C Dam by addressing related environmental and social concerns. Efforts have included:
   
  
  • Financially supporting a documentary that highlights various elements of the issue by following Paddle for the Peace – an annual community event in which hundreds of people show their concern for the river;
  • Participating in the Keepers of the Water II Conference, an ongoing effort by First Nations communities to address water issues in the area;
  • Successfully nominating the Peace River as one of British Columbia's most endangered rivers;
  • Leading campaign strategy sessions; and
  • Providing financial support to the grassroots Peace Valley Environment Association.

Recent News

Treaty 8 Tribal Association represents local First Nations whose communities and rights will be impacted by the dam. They have created a computer model of how the river will change if the new dam is constructed here:

Watch the video blog of the Wilderness Committee's Tria Donaldson, in which she talks about her recent visit to the Peace River Valley, participating in a paddle trip down the river, and learning why the Site C project should not go ahead.