Fraser River Dredging Permit for S&R Sawmills - Parsons Channel, Surrey
Official title: Maintenance dredging - S&R Sawmills
S&R Sawmills wants a multi-year permit to dredge the Fraser River near their Surrey sawmill. They need to remove sediment and wood waste that builds up naturally, keeping the channel deep enough for ships to access the facility safely. The dredged material would be dumped at an approved ocean disposal site near Point Grey.
Why This Matters
Live near the Fraser River in Surrey? This dredging happens close to shore and could affect local water quality. The work may also occur on weekends, which could mean noise during off-hours. Dredged material gets dumped in the ocean near Point Grey.
What Could Change
If approved, S&R Sawmills could dredge up to 50,000 cubic metres of river bottom annually for multiple years. That's about 98,000 square metres of riverbed disturbed each season. The permit would allow weekend work during mill shutdowns.
Key Issues
- Should a multi-year dredging permit be granted for this location?
- Are the proposed dredging depths and volumes appropriate?
- Is ocean disposal at Point Grey acceptable for this dredged material?
Indigenous Consultation
This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.