Massive Landslide Dam in Canada Traps Endangered Fish – Earth from Space View
Satellite images taken by Landsat 9 before and after a massive landslide in Canada have revealed a stark transformation of the Chilcotin River. The photos show the river swelled up after being completely dammed by debris from the landslide, impacting the flow of the waterway and endangering a population of sockeye salmon.
Location and Details of the Landslide
The Chilcotin River, located in British Columbia, experienced a major landslide near Farwell Canyon on July 30. The landslide occurred approximately 14 miles upstream from where the Chilcotin River joins the Fraser River, blocking the flow of water with an estimated 640 million cubic feet of earth and rock. This obstruction created a significant challenge for the river and its inhabitants.
Impact on the Chilcotin River
In the days following the landslide, satellite imagery captured by Landsat 9 showed the rapid swelling of the river as it encountered the blockage. The Chilcotin River broke its banks in several areas, forming a debris-filled lake behind the dam. This sudden change in the river’s flow left the stretch of the Chilcotin between the landslide and the Fraser River almost completely dry, posing a threat to nearby residents.
Evacuation Orders and Environmental Concerns
Regional authorities issued evacuation orders for residents living close to the riverbanks downstream of the blockage, fearing potential flash flooding or further landslides. The obstruction also raised concerns about the impact on the local ecosystem, particularly the endangered sockeye salmon population that relies on the river for spawning.
Endangered Sockeye Salmon Population
The T?ilhqot’in Indigenous nation expressed concerns about the fate of the sockeye salmon population following the landslide. While some fish likely perished after being stranded in the dried-up section of the river, survivors faced challenges in reaching their spawning grounds in Taseko Lake due to the blockage. The obstruction disrupted the natural migration patterns of the salmon, which were already facing declining numbers before the landslide occurred.
Conservation Efforts and Future Survival Prospects
Conservationists are closely monitoring the situation to assess the long-term impact on the sockeye salmon population in the Chilcotin River. The Taseko population of sockeye salmon is listed as endangered, highlighting the urgency of addressing the challenges posed by the landslide. Efforts to protect and restore the habitat of the salmon are crucial for ensuring the survival of this species in the region.
Environmental Consequences of the Landslide
The landslide not only disrupted the flow of the Chilcotin River but also led to changes in water quality downstream. Satellite images revealed that the river water picked up large amounts of sediment from the riverbed, turning the waterway and the Fraser River yellow-brown. While these effects may be temporary, they could have lasting implications for freshwater species in the area.
Historical Context and Indigenous Knowledge
The T?ilhqot’in people have a deep connection to the Chilcotin River and its surrounding lands. The area known as Nagwentled, meaning “landslides across the river” in the Athabaskan language, has experienced similar natural events in the past. However, the recent landslide represents one of the most significant obstructions along the river in recent memory, underscoring the importance of understanding and addressing the impacts of such events on the local ecosystem.
Conclusion
The massive landslide that dammed the Chilcotin River in Canada has raised concerns about the fate of the endangered sockeye salmon population and the overall health of the river ecosystem. As efforts continue to assess the environmental impact of the landslide and mitigate its effects, it is essential to prioritize conservation efforts and sustainable management practices to safeguard the future of the Chilcotin River and its inhabitants.
