We’ve noticed a subtle change to the colour of the water in the Bow River over the past day or two. It’s still green, but with a cloudy appearance, similar to the ‘rock flower’ you see in alpine lakes and streams.
A search came up with the July 07 article below that appeared in the Rocky Mountain Outlook.
We wonder if there is a connection? If anyone reading this post has more information, we’d appreciate knowing.
Parks concerned high flows harming fish
Jul 07, 2011 11:49 am | CATHY ELLIS
Unnaturally high and dirty water levels in Goat Creek and Spray River has Banff National Park authorities concerned about harm being caused to fish and their habitat.
TransAlta has been diverting significant volumes of water into Goat Creek since June 3 following mechanical breakdowns and planned maintenance at the Spray hydroelectric facility.
Making matters worse, the power company now predicts large volumes of water will breach the spillway at Canyon Dam into Spray River by mid-July due to ongoing runoff and problems at the reservoir.
Parks Canada fears turbidity created by sediment being stirred up from the increased force of the flows will affect fish survival and destroy or alter habitat, such as holding areas.
“As a result of these increased flows and duration of flows, our concern is what could or will happen to the fish populations in the Goat, in the Spray and also in the Bow,” said Parks aquatics specialist Charlie Pacas.
“The Spray River is 40 kilometres from Canyon Dam to Bow Falls and the habitat may be changed to some degree as a result of all of this. We think fish populations may be affected.”
Local fishing guides are up in arms, too.
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