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EVR celebrates completion of Jaffray area marsh project
Elk Valley Resources (EVR) is proud to announce the successful completion of the Suzanne Creek Marsh Project, a significant investment in wetland conservation in the southeast Kootenays.
This $1.3 million project, funded by EVR, has helped secure the marsh’s future, ensuring its continued role in providing habitat for wildlife and supporting biodiversity.
Suzanne Creek Marsh was originally constructed by Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) in 1986 near Jaffray. Without intervention, due to aging water control infrastructure the wetland would have been reduced from 10.6 hectares to just 1.47 hectares—an 86% loss of habitat. EVR entered into an agreement with DUC to design, rebuild, and maintain the wetland on the landscape.
“The Suzanne Creek Marsh provides valuable habitat for a variety of wildlife who call it home and EVR’s investment ensures it remains a productive ecosystem for decades to come,” said Mike Carrucan, CEO, EVR.
The rebuild involved replacing water control structures to maintain water levels and prevent habitat degradation. The improved design will continue to sustain more than 10 hectares of wetland, preserving a mix of cattail marsh, swamp wetland, and shallow open-water communities surrounded by mature forest.
“DUC has almost 6.4 million acres across Canada under our conservation stewardship, and more funding for the management and enhancement of them is critical for wildlife and communities. We are extremely grateful to EVR for their commitment to sustaining wetlands like Suzanne Creek Marsh,” said Paul Thoroughgood, Acting Chief Conservation Officer, DUC.
The marsh supports a wide diversity of wildlife, including waterfowl and songbirds; amphibians such as the Columbia spotted frog; reptiles like the Western painted turtle; and mammals including muskrat, beaver, and elk. In addition, 10 bat species have been documented at the site, which is designated as ungulate winter range and critical habitat for the American badger.
Elk Valley Resources photo
Submitted by Elk Valley Resources
