Hatchery Creek Salmon Research Station Box Culvert

This critical infrastructure project involved replacing an aged culvert beneath the Columbia Valley Highway, severely damaged during the devastating floods of November 2021, with a robust, fish-friendly 2.7m x 1.8m, 36-metre-long concrete box culvert. Given the site's proximity to Cultus Lake and Columbia Valley, maintaining consistent traffic flow and community connectivity was paramount throughout construction, especially during busy travel periods.

Complex conditions such as limited overhead clearances due to utility lines and gas mains necessitated the use of two of the largest Hiab cranes in BC, working in tandem to precisely install the culvert. Environmental sensitivity was integral to the design and execution of the project, due to the adjacent Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) hatchery. Construction included the creation of fish-friendly culvert entrances and exits, which restored passage and improved spawning habitats previously blocked by the damaged culvert.

• Installation of a new watermain to resolve conflicts with the culvert structure
• Continuous creek bypass and dewatering system maintained during winter construction
• Detailed habitat enhancements, including rock cascades, riffles, and spawning reefs
• Restoration of riparian habitat through hydroseeding and planting 500 native plants along creek banks

From the Field

“Balancing critical infrastructure upgrades with the protection of sensitive salmon habitats is a responsibility we take seriously. Our team’s meticulous planning, environmental diligence, and effective collaboration ensured the success of this important ecological project.”

— Hamish Baird, Superintendent, Ballina Contracting

Engineered for Ecology

Successfully completing the Hatchery Creek Box Culvert required extraordinary logistical planning, precise construction methods, and an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. The project's careful design and execution not only restored essential infrastructure but also revitalized critical fish habitats.

Post-construction monitoring confirmed its success, with DFO discovering thriving schools of Coho fry now returning to Hatchery Creek—proof of Ballina’s effective environmental restoration approach and dedicated project management. The project was completed on time, on budget, and with zero deficiencies, marking a significant win for the community and the local ecosystem alike.