The aftermath left by the devastating wildfires and floods of 2021 in British Columbia are a stark reminder of the power of nature and the urgent need for action. For the Nicola Watershed, a region deeply significant to its Indigenous communities, these events caused widespread damage, impacting not only the landscape but also vital ecosystems like salmon habitats.
At veritree, we believe in the power of nature to heal, and we are proud to collaborate on the long-term restoration of this vital area with local planting teams. This crucial reforestation project began in 2023 as part of Canada's ambitious Two Billion Trees (2BT) initiative – a federal commitment to plant two billion trees by 2030. Our work in the Nicola Watershed is rooted in addressing the specific and profound damage caused by the 2021 natural disasters.
The combination of the Linton Creek and July Mountain wildfires, followed by unprecedented atmospheric rivers, led to catastrophic flooding. The Spahomin Creek Valley, a major tributary of the Nicola River, was particularly hard hit. The stories shared by locals paint a picture of devastation that underscores the urgency of our restoration efforts.
More Than Just Planting Trees: A Holistic Approach
A comprehensive approach to reforestation is being implemented in the Nicola Watershed, moving beyond simply putting seedlings in the ground. This forest restoration effort operates at scale, guided by three core principles:
Biodiversity: The recognition that a healthy forest is a diverse forest drives the active conservation of a variety of forest structures. This means not just densely planting everywhere, but understanding where fire played its natural role in creating open spaces and diverse habitats. Historically, these landscapes were a mosaic of different forest types and open areas, supporting a wider range of plant and animal life. Planting prescriptions include a diversity of species, including deciduous trees like Aspen, as well as shrubs and herbs, mirroring the natural complexity of these ecosystems.
Hydrology: Ensuring the health of the Nicola River and its tributaries is paramount, especially for the salmon populations that are so culturally and ecologically significant to the First Nations in the area. Planting trees plays a crucial role in reducing soil erosion and sedimentation in rivers, improving water infiltration and storage, and even influencing snowpack in higher elevations, ultimately contributing to more stable and cooler water flows – vital for salmon habitat.
Climate Change Resilience: The focus is on building an ecosystem for the future, not just restoring the past. By utilizing the latest research and tools, including climate-based seed transfer and climate change-informed species selection, the project ensures that the trees planted today will be resilient and vigorous in the face of a changing climate.
Honouring the Land and its People: Deep Engagement with Indigenous Communities
Operating within the unceded territories of the Nlaka’pamux and Syilx Nations, this project is intrinsically linked to respecting Indigenous laws, cultural norms, and values. Genuine, bottom-up engagement with First Nations is not just a part of the initiative – it is foundational to its success.
From the very beginning, dialogue has been established with the seven First Nations in the Nicola Valley: Cook's Ferry, Nicomen, Shackan, Nooaitch, Upper Nicola, Lower Nicola, and Coldwater. This ongoing collaboration informs every aspect of the work, from planting prescriptions and species selection to the crucial understanding of culturally significant plants.
A powerful example of this collaborative approach is the focus on restoring culturally important shrubs and herbs. By directly engaging with the communities to understand what is diminishing after the wildfires, their knowledge and priorities are actively incorporated into the planting plans. Furthermore, there is ongoing work with the bands to identify optimal locations for these plants, ensuring they are accessible for their use. This deep respect for the land as a "pantry" – a vital source of food, medicine, and other essential resources – and a place of cultural significance guides decisions made within the project.
Addressing the Challenges of Restoration
The reforestation efforts in the Nicola Watershed face considerable challenges. The region's hot and dry climate, intensified by climate change through warmer winters, reduced snowpack, shorter springs, and hotter, drier summers, presents significant hurdles. Strategies employed to mitigate these challenges include:
- Optimized Planting Timing: Prioritizing the early planting of trees to maximize their access to available moisture.
- Micro-site Selection: Strategically planting in locations offering more favorable conditions, such as the shade provided by standing dead trees and within burnt-out root wells.
- Species Selection: The careful selection of tree species and seed sources best adapted to the current and projected future climate.
Beyond these ecological complexities, navigating the intricate human landscape and upholding respect for Indigenous land rights necessitates ongoing learning, active listening, and the cultivation of trust.
A Long-Term Vision: Restoring Ecosystems and Supporting Communities
While the immediate signs of life returning – grasses, insects, birds – are encouraging, the full restoration of a mature forest takes time. In areas where the fire burned intensely, destroying the natural seed bank, natural regeneration could take 50 to 100 years. These active reforestation efforts are crucial to jumpstart this process and prevent these areas from transitioning into non-forest ecosystems. The work in the Nicola Watershed is not just about planting trees; it's about fostering the return of biodiversity, ensuring the long-term health of the watershed, and supporting the resilience and well-being of the communities who call this land home. For corporations seeking meaningful environmental and social impact in Canada, partnership in this restoration work offers a tangible opportunity to invest in the future of our forests. We are committed to this journey, working hand-in-hand with our local planting partner and the Indigenous communities, to heal the land and build a brighter future, together.
