Bill Bennett, Minister of Energy and Mines and Minister Responsible for Core Review, announced the release of the Province's draft recommendation aimed at seeking improvements within the existing framework of the Columbia River Treaty.

The draft recommendation follows a recent trip to Washington D.C. by Premier Christy Clark where she advocated for treaty improvements in B.C. during a series of meetings with senior leadership in the United States Congress. The Columbia River Treaty Review Team is also continuing to engage U.S. parties to explain B.C.'s perspectives.

The draft recommendation includes principles that will guide the Province in any discussions on the future of the treaty with Canada and the United States. These include consideration of flood control, hydropower generation, ecosystems, climate change and benefits to B.C.

The provincial Columbia River Treaty Review has included economic, environmental, social, hydrological and legal analyses as well as extensive public and First Nations consultation leading to a decision on whether to continue, amend or terminate the Columbia River Treaty with the United States. Both B.C.'s treaty review team and the U.S. Entity (Bonneville Power Administration and the US Army Corps of Engineers) are expected to make final recommendations to their respective governments in December.

The draft recommendation document is available for public review and comment until Nov. 20, 2013, after which the Columbia River Treaty Review Team will prepare its final recommendation to Cabinet. Further public input is being sought to ensure regional interests help shape the future of the Columbia River Treaty.

Quotes:

Bill Bennett, Minister of Energy and Mines and Responsible for Core Review -

"We believe there are improvements that can be made within the existing framework of the Columbia River Treaty and we're working with various stakeholders, First Nations and the public to identify them. The treaty consultations helped form our draft recommendation, and further feedback will ensure everyone will have their say in the future of the treaty."

Learn More:

The Province of British Columbia and the Columbia River Treaty Local Governments' Committee invite the public to a discussion on the future of the Columbia River Treaty at upcoming community workshops.

• JAFFRAY Monday, Nov. 4 - Jaffray Hall, Jaffray Village Loop Road
• GOLDEN Tuesday, Nov. 5 - Golden Civic Centre, 898 Hwy #95
• NAKUSP Wednesday, Nov. 6 - Nakusp Community Complex & Arena, 200 8th Ave. NW
• CASTLEGAR* Thursday, Nov. 7 - Sandman Inn Castlegar, 1944 Columbia Ave.
• VALEMOUNT Thursday, Nov. 14 - Village Office, 735 Cranberry Lake Rd.
• Live Stream option available

To view and provide feedback on the draft recommendation visit: www.gov.bc.ca/columbiarivertreaty

Media Contact:

Jake Jacobs
Media Relations
Ministry of Energy and Mines and Responsible for Core Review
250 952-0628