ʔAkisq̓nuk First Nation launches study into 2 East Kootenay lakes amid boating debate

ʔAkisq̓nuk First Nation is launching a series of scientific and economic studies on Lake Windermere and Columbia Lake as part of a broader water stewardship plan that has sparked debate over recreational boating in the area.

“Stewardship is important to the Ktunaxa people,” ʔAkisq̓nuk Chief (Nasuʔkin) Donald Sam told CBC’s Daybreak South.

“You can’t make decisions without credible data.”

The First Nation will spend $200,000 to map the East Kootenay lakes, and examine shoreline conditions and sediment movement, while also assessing the economic importance of recreation on them.

The stewardship discussions have generated concern among some residents who fear restrictions could hurt the local economy.

Sam said those concerns are misplaced.

“We’re not opposed to economic development,” he said.

“People are saying we’re going to kill the economy because we don’t want boats on the lake, and that’s not the purpose at all.”

Instead, Sam said the goal is to determine what types of recreation are compatible with the long-term health of the lakes.

The studies come amid growing scrutiny of wake-surfing boats, which use ballast systems to create larger wakes. Critics argue the boats stir up sediment, damage shorelines and contribute to environmental degradation in smaller lakes.

Lake Windermere and Columbia Lake are relatively shallow, and susceptible to wake disturbance and shoreline erosion.

Lake users and community groups, like Lake Windemere Ambassadors, already urge motorized boaters to limit speeds and respect regulations.

Sam said traditional boating, fishing and other recreational uses may be more sustainable on the relatively narrow lakes.

Mayor supports science-based approach

District of Invermere Mayor Al Miller said the municipality supports a science-based approach to the issue.

“We as a district are just trying to do the right thing,” Miller said. “A science-based approach to me makes the most sense. I don’t want to go on hearsay.”

Miller said economic impacts must also be considered alongside environmental concerns.

“The economic factor is always very important. The health of the lake is very important,” he said. “You have to take all the data and make the best decisions you can.”

Sam said the stewardship planning process is still in its early stages and no immediate restrictions are being considered this summer.

“This year is going to be information sharing, information gathering,” he said. “There will be plenty of time for community engagement and public engagement.”

He said the nation hopes the research will eventually lead to a long-term lake stewardship strategy that balances environmental protection with economic prosperity.

“I don’t think it’s a matter of all or nothing,” Sam said.

“With these studies, understanding the economy and the values a little bit more, we’ll be able to have a lake stewardship plan that sets us up well into the future.”