Ring Road Construction for Hartley Bay - Species at Risk Permit
Official title: Hartley Bay Ring Road
The Gitga'at First Nation wants to build a 1.1km ring road around Hartley Bay, a remote coastal community in BC. The road would connect the barge ramp to existing roads, improving access and serving as a fire break and emergency escape route. Because the project includes a bridge over the fish-bearing Gabion River, they need a Species at Risk Act permit from Environment Canada.
Why This Matters
This matters most to Hartley Bay residents. The ring road would make it easier to move supplies and evacuate during emergencies like wildfires. If you care about how infrastructure projects balance community needs with species protection, this is a real-world example.
What Could Change
If the permit is approved, construction can proceed on the road and bridge over the Gabion River. The permit would include conditions to protect species at risk during and after construction.
Key Issues
- Should a Species at Risk Act permit be granted for the bridge over the Gabion River?
- What conditions should protect fish habitat and species at risk during construction?
Indigenous Consultation
This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.