Approximately three kilometres of dike along the south end of Duck Lake off Channel Road within the Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area (CVWMA) was gravelled and graded in the spring. It took 2,800 cubic yards of gravel, or 280 regular dump truck loads, to repair the damaged section of this provincial flood protection dike at a cost of $60,000.
To ensure the dike remains in good condition for years to come, the CVWMA has installed a gate at the southeast corner of Duck Lake that will be used for seasonal closures to vehicle traffic during periods of unfavourable weather and dike conditions. The most effective way of preventing damage to the dike is to limit vehicle access when the dike is saturated with water and during freeze and thaw periods. Closures at these times will be temporary and also depend on the conditions of the dikes south and west of Duck Lake. Closures will apply to vehicles only; pedestrians will be welcome to continue using the dike.
Duck Lake is a unique and special place. These are the only dikes within the CVWMA where vehicle access is allowed and it is frequented by a wide range of users for recreational opportunities such as hiking, bird watching, fishing, hunting and wildlife viewing. The Creston Valley Wildlife Management Authority asks that everyone respect the area by keeping dogs on a leash and packing out garbage. It would also like to remind people that ATVs, dirt bikes and snowmobiles are prohibited within the CVWMA boundary, unless a permit is issued.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact the CVWMA at 250-402-6900 or askus@crestonwildlife.ca.
—CRESTON VALLEY WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY