Sensitive Habitat Inventory and Mapping (SHIM)
SHIM has been adopted and used since 2001 by the Regional District of the Central
Okanagan as an ecosystem-based tool for identifying, inventorying and mapping regional
watercourses. The Trepanier Creek and South Slopes SHIM
is a continuation of these works and will conclude the mapping exercise for private
lands within the RDCO. Work is also underway on the Bear
Creek Sediment Source Survey.
Project Goals
SHIM aims at mapping aquatic habitats and their associated
riparian areas. The project involves intense data collection on streams,
lakes and wetlands using GPS (Global Positioning System) technology. This data is
then easily accessed using a computerized GIS (Geographic Information System) database
that provides planners and resource managers with information for making sustainable
land use decisions.
What features have been mapped?
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Riparian Condition
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Culverts
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Bank Modifications
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Obstructions
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Erosion
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Project Status
In 2002, the RDCO completed SHIM mapping for Ellison and in 2003 completed the Westside.
The collected information is available at the
Development Services
Planning Section Front Counter at
the RDCO office or visit the
Community Mapping Network website.
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Trepanier Creek and South Slopes SHIM
Project Goals
SHIM aims at mapping aquatic habitats and their associated
riparian areas. The project involves intense data collection on streams,
lakes and wetlands using GPS (Global Positioning System) technology. This data is
then easily accessed using a computerized GIS (Geographic Information System) database
that provides planners and resource managers with information for making sustainable
land use decisions.
Project Status
During the past six years, the Regional District has been working towards a complete
inventory of its aquatic resources and sensitive habitats. With the completion
of the update to the Joe Rich Rural Land Use Bylaw and North Westside Official Community
Plan (OCP) area, the project is focusing on the remaining areas: Trepanier
Creek and the South Slopes. The collected information is available at the
Development Services
Planning Section Front Counter at the RDCO office or visit the
Community Mapping Network website.
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Bear Creek Sediment Source Survey
In 2007, the Regional District began a mapping project of the Bear Creek (Lambly
Creek) watershed in cooperation with the Lakeview Irrigation District and the Okanagan
Basin Water Board.
Project Goals
Using similar methods as the SHIM (Sensitive Habitat Inventory Mapping) Bear Creek
and three of its major tributaries: Bald Range, Terrace and North Fork are
to be surveyed for erosion and any detrimental conditions leading to reduced water
quality. The data will be used to help improve management of the watershed
which has been under continual, increasing pressure from recreational and industrial
use.
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Significant features mapped
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Erosion from Roadways
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Natural Erosion
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Trail Crossings
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Cattle Access
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Project Status
In 2007, a significant portion of the project was completed with Phase 2 scheduled
to be conducted during the summer of 2008. This will include the mapping of
Terrace and North Fork creeks and completion of the project.
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