Timeline — Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake

2025

2024

2023

2022

1876-2021

Future Kalamalka Lake access not a guarantee

June 18, 2021 Vernon Matters article

“Heading for Kalamalka Lake to go boating, paddling or for a swim on a whim, may not be as easy in the future, as access and capacity limits are stretched.

There is a long term plan to increase access. With our DCC’s (development cost charges), we have identified buying for lakefront land, so any new development in the district pays toward that,” Garlick stated. Kalamalka Lake is one of the two main drinking water sources for the Greater Vernon area.

Garlick noted that the access situation is changing and not everyone will be accommodated on any given day.

“That is how most of the rest of the world works, we have just been very fortunate. I grew up here and never had to think that way, but seeing how the numbers are increasing, there will come a time where you will have to wait your turn,” Garlick concluded.

He added they have opened up historic road ends for hand launching and converted the West Kal boat launch to non-motorized hand launched craft to accommodate the popularity of kayaking and paddle boarding.

https://vernonmatters.ca/2021/06/18/future-kalamalka-lake-access-not-a-guarantee/

Kalavista Boat Launch Dredged

October 5, 2021

Associated Environmental Consultants Inc. (Associated) is pleased to provide this summary report for the environmental monitoring conducted on October 5, 2021 on the northeast shore of Kalamalka Lake, in Coldstream, BC. Associated was retained by the District of Coldstream (Coldstream) to provide a qualified environmental professional (QEP) to monitor construction activities while Coldstream completed its annual dredging works at the Kalavista boat launch.

https://a100.gov.bc.ca/pub/acat/public/viewReport.do?reportId=59398

2020

Abandoned utility infrastructure removed from Coldstream Creek

Sep 12, 2020 Castanet

Work is going on in Noble Canyon above Lavington to restore Coldstream Creek to its natural state. The Regional District of North Okanagan has almost completed work on removing the old Noble Canyon weir and drinking water intake infrastructure.

The project will restore the creek to an effective fish habitat, the RDNO says.

Once removal is complete, contractors will plant 40 trees, 150 willow stakes, and seed the disturbed areas. The weir had served as a sediment removal structure. It was abandoned as a drinking water source in 1999 by the District of Coldstream, due to turbidity issues. Under the Greater Vernon Water authority, ownership of all drinking water-related facilities was transferred to the RDNO, including abandoned facilities such as the Noble Canyon intake. In 2015, the site underwent partial decommissioning.

Three years later, the weir facility filled with sediment and debris, causing rerouting of the stream channel and considerable erosion in the area.

https://www.castanetkamloops.net/news/Vernon/310359/Abandoned-utility-infrastructure-removed-from-Coldstream-Creek

Vernon, B.C., changes its source of drinking water due to algae blooms in Kalamalka Lake

Oct 24,2020 CBC news article

“Unusually high levels of algae”

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/vernon-algae-blooms-kalamalka-lake-1.5775956

Algae levels in Kalamalka Lake higher than ever seen before

Oct 30, 2020 Info News article

"When high water events occur, water picks up excess nutrients on the land. The nutrients phosphorous and nitrogen promote algae growth. Major flooding events are natural ecosystem disruptors that can change the typical functioning of a lake for years,” she said.

The regional district has been advocating for funding to add a filtration process to the Kalamalka Lake water treatment process for many years, she said, adding that filtration is effective in reducing and removing algae from treated drinking water.

https://infotel.ca/newsitem/algae-levels-in-kalamalka-lake-higher-than-ever-seen-before/it78136

32-year-old man dead after cliff diving on Kalamalka Lake near Vernon

June 20, 2020 Vernon Morning Star article

“...a man who had jumped from a cliff and failed to resurface. Several people tried but failed to locate him. The RCMP and Vernon Search and Rescue were deployed to the area and conducted a search using an underwater camera. The man's body was recovered on Monday by the RCMP Underwater Recovery Team.”

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/32-year-old-man-dead-after-cliff-diving-on-kalamalka-lake-near-vernon-1.5623138

Weekend rainfall pushes Kalamalka Lake closer to capacity

June 16, 2020 Vernon Morning Star article

Boaters, homeowers asked to take extra measures to protect shorelines in Coldstream

https://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/weekend-rainfall-pushes-kalamalka-lake-closer-to-capacity-3315516

Vernon: See why this lake is constantly changing its colours

April 27, 2020 Vernon Morning Star article

“a concentration of limestone crystals left from past glaciers. As the lake warms in the summer, crystals are formed which reflect sunlight. They dissolve again in winter.”

https://www.vernonmorningstar.com/travel/vernon-see-why-this-lake-is-constantly-changing-its-colours-3313454

PowerPoint Summary of Boat Trials and Sediment Study

Motorboats re-suspend sediments and threaten to pollute drinking water. Motor boats are recommended to avoid depths shallower than 8 meters and head to the “Play Zone” or the deep water south of Rattlesnake Point on Kalamalka Lake. Studies include:

On-going annual growing season monitoring 1999 - present
Two sediment studies + stormwater study (2017 2018)
Boat Capacity Study (2016)
Boat wake impact study (2019)
Also Cosens Bay septage study (2014-2015) Bailey/Boltres study (2018-2019) and more.

Boat Impact Studies on Kalamalka Lake 2017, 2019 and Sediment Study 2018-May 2020.pdf

2019

Kalamalka Lake Boat Trials

Video: https://youtu.be/RtL3sTU0RcA?si=OKrQBytUJwgsg62b

Sediment disturbance was still clearly visible at 4 m deep, and the impact of the wake was measured as deep as 8 m.

Kalamalka Lake – Boat Wake Impact Study – Larratt Aquatic Consulting

Sediment Impact to GVW Kalamalka Lake Intake Study

To further review the extent of boat impacts, Greater Vernon Water (GVW) applied for and received an OBWB grant to complete the Sediment Impact to GVW Kalamalka Lake Intake Study (Attachment “A”). A summary of the results are as follows:

1) The presence of metals, Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and fecal bacteria were found in the lake sediments.

2) Lake sediments act as a long term reservoir for contaminants but can return them to the water column during turbulent re-suspension (i.e. milfoil rototilling or wake boat activity).

3) Turbulent activities in water shallower than 4-5 meters will generate a turbidity plume that can redistribute sediment contaminants.

4) Higher metal concentrations were found along the Coldstream Creek plume path than at other sites. Sediment core samples also correlated Coldstream Creek as the likely source of metals.

5) Samples taken near stormwater outfalls indicated a common metal source from urban and agricultural land runoff, but at lower concentrations, reinforcing the conclusion that Coldstream Creek significantly impacts lake water quality.

6) Based on hydrocarbon fingerprinting, the likely source of PAHs is urban stormwater which correlates with the sampling locations near stormwater outfalls. Intensive motorized boating

occurring near Core Site 3 (located along the lake current path downstream of the Kalavista boat launch) may also be a contributing factor to the PAH sediment contamination found there.

7) The highest sediment E. coli (fecal bacteria) counts occurred at sites adjacent to stormwater outfalls. Elevated fecal bacteria was also found at locations with waterfowl congregations.

8) Regardless of the original source, human activities that cause the re-suspension of these persistent and toxic sediment contaminants is a concern for the drinking water intake.

https://rdno.civicweb.net/document/122780/

April 7, 2019

Vernon paddleboarder cleaning up Kalamalka Lake

Aaron Nasipayko, so far, has removed a pallet and two crates worth of debris while out on the lake. Friends of his hauled out two tires last year and have cleaned up the aftermath of shoreline parties.he collected garbage from nearly four kilometres of shoreline along the Okanagan Rail Trail. Nasipayko gave a shout-out to local organization SPrKL, the Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake, a non-profit group whose mission statement reads, “To preserve and protect the quality and health of Kalamalka Lake Watershed for all future generations so that the lake may be enjoyed by all user groups in an environmentally sustainable manner.”

“They have organized days cleaning our waterways and continually strive for ways to spread awareness to keep Kal Lake blue,” said Nasipayko. “This aligns with what they stand for.”

https://www.vernonmorningstar.com/news/vernon-paddleboarder-cleaning-up-kalamalka-lake-3294901

Kalavista Lagoon Fish Sampling; 2019; PE19-523615

February 2019

Two rounds of fish sampling were conducted in the lagoon, to confirm the presence of chiselmouth and the effectiveness of the carp exclusion fence.

https://a100.gov.bc.ca/pub/acat/public/viewReport.do?reportId=61708

Kalvista Lagoon Carp Exclusion Fence Approved

February 19 2019

The Committee of the Whole recommends to Council that staff be directed to proceed with the construction of the Kalavista Lagoon Carp Fencing as soon as necessary permits are obtained, at a cost of $31,000, to be funded from the Drainage Reserve.

https://coldstream.civicweb.net/document/56851/

Studies show E. coli and invasive species prominent in Kalavista Lagoon

April 1, 2019 Infotel

The Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake has released the findings of two studies conducted on the lagoon last year. The report shows that the one-acre pond that sits just off Kalamalka Road, 50 metres from Kalamalka Lake, faces a multitude of different challenges from high E. coli levels to invasive species and a drop in the water level.

https://infotel.ca/newsitem/studies-show-e-coli-and-invasive-species-prominent-in-kalavista-lagoon/it61012

“In 2017, a total of 18 western painted turtles were counted, but in 2018, only 13 turtles were counted, despite additional field visits,” says Runyan. “Western painted turtles are a blue-listed species that has lost much habitat; over 84% of low elevation wetlands within the Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys have already been lost due to development. The Kalavista Lagoon has become so shallow that soon turtles may be unable to overwinter there successfully. Sediment vacuuming could be used to deepen some areas.”

https://vernonmatters.ca/2019/04/01/117613/

2018

Kalavista Lagoon Baseline Environmental Assessment 2018

A study on the Kalavista Lagoon by three environmental professionals was completed, and was provided to Coldstream Council with recommendations for lagoon restoration via suction dredging to deepen the water. Allan Hanson surveyed fish and found blue-listed chiselmouth in the lagoon. Trina Koch tested water quality with the assistance of Gina LeBell. Sediment Cores were conducted by Simone Runyan, Trina Koch and Gina LeBell. Simone Runyan surveyed bathometry, vegetation, habitat and wildlife. Although 18 western painted turtles were observed in the lagoon in 2017, their numbers have declined.

Committee of the Whole - 19 Feb 2019 - Agenda - Pdf.pdf

https://coldstream.civicweb.net/document/56059/

https://obwb.ca/wcqi_project/kalavista-lagoon-water-quality-and-contributing-factors-assessment/

https://www.castanet.net/news/Vernon/252866/Lagoon-needs-helping-hand

2017

Kalamalka Lake consumes dock

May 17, 2017 Salmon Arm Observer article

“Water level in lake rises so high that Rotary pier is under water”

https://www.saobserver.net/community/kalamalka-lake-consumes-dock-3672523

https://vernonmatters.ca/2017/08/09/options-explored-for-kalavista-lagoon/

Aug 9, 2017 Vernon Matters

Officials in Coldstream are taking a long look at bringing new life to Kalavista Lagoon.

The lagoon has changed since it was developed in the 1940’s as a drainage pond when the subdivision was built.

The lagoon has been stagnant for years since channels that fed it from Coldstream Creek were closed to prevent flooding of the neighbourhood.

Mayor Jim Garlick says councillors are looking at two ideas.

“One is putting water into the lagoon for the water to be fresh all of the time and that way we would have oxygen in it and we wouldn’t get hydrogen sulphide forming which causes the smell.”

Water would either come from Kalamalka Lake, Coldstream Creek or groundwater.

The other idea is to create a natural wetland, which would mean sealing it off.

Kalamalka and Wood Lake Boat Impact Study

The Kalamalka and Wood Lake Boat Impact Study (KWLBIS) completed in 2017 as part of the North Kalamalka Lake Intake Assessment Response Plan (Response Plan). The study found that motor boats disturb and resuspend lake bottom sediments in water as deep as 8 meters. The study recommended investigating methods to reduce the risk of sediment re-suspension by re-directing motorized boating activity away from intakes and shallow areas.

https://a100.gov.bc.ca/pub/acat/public/viewReport.do?reportId=52567

2016

Splash mob on Kalamalka Lake puts spotlight on fight against invasive

Jul 25, 2016

Around 200 participants formed a Splash Mob to raise awareness against invasive mussels Sunday morning at Kalamalka Lake’s first splash mob.

Splash Mob - Protecting Our Freshwater

A passionate group of BC residents join together to fight for the lake they love. Their message is simple: a great danger faces the lakes and rivers of the Pacific Northwest, but we can all take action to stop it.

Video: https://vimeo.com/301041293

2015

Kalamalka Lake Water Quality Study Microflora, Water Chemistry & Thermal Profiles 2014

Higher E. coli readings were found in Coldstream Creek, in the shallows and in the north end of Kalamalka Lake than in deeper waters.

Consistent with its meso-eutrophic character, 2014 Wood Lake algae production was more than double that of Kalamalka Lake.

Both the north and south ends of Kalamalka Lake are subject to significant seiche turbulence, with the south end being the most vulnerable. The North Arm experiences larger turbidity and bacterial spikes during seiches because of its fine sediments. Dissolved oxygen concentrations remain excellent throughout the Kalamalka Lake water column. Salinity continued to slowly increase in 2014, probably through urban sources, but remains well below drinking water guidelines. The 2014 ratios of Na : Cl indicate that Coldstream Creek and Wood Lake were more impacted by road salt than Kalamalka Lake.

Kalamalka-Lake-Water-Quality-Study.pdf

Cosens Bay Water Quality Monitoring

Water quality testing near the cabins and along undeveloped foreshore suggested that impact of cottage development on Cosens Bay water quality was minor and not statistically significant.

The RDNO hired Larratt Aquatic Consulting (LAC) to sample three locations in the Cosens Bay area of Kalamalka Lake (fronting the developed lands) and one sampling site in an undeveloped area as a reference control site. The sampling occurred in conjunction with the existing Kalamalka Lake Long-Term Monitoring Project which runs monthly from May to October. The water samples were sent to Caro Labs in Kelowna for testing. Algae and microflora samples were examined and identified by LAC.

Water Quality Monitoring Cosens Bay – Okanagan Basin Water Board

Okanagan filmmaker launches movie – draws attention to menace of invasive mussels

April 15, 2015

https://obwb.ca/okanagan-filmmaker-launches-movie-draws-attention-to-menace-of-invasive-mussels/

https://www.timeschronicle.ca/short-film-highlights-invasive-mussel-threat-to-b-c-s-waterways/

SPrKL Events in 2015

General Meeting and Speaker (March 2015)

Earth Day - clean-up Kalavista Lagoon (April 2015)

Adopt a Creek Clean-up Creekside Park (May 2015)

Secchi Disk - Water Quality Monitoring (May-Sept)

Sunshine Festival (June 2015)

Kal Klassic - support Kalavida (August 2015)

Spirit Paddle - (Sept 1, 2015)

Adopt a Creek - Fall Clean-up Creekside Park

Rivers Day - RDNO event (Sept. 2015)

SPrKL AGM meeting (Sept/Oct 2015)

Archive of 2015 Projects, Events & Photos — Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake

2014

Brynne Morrice Launches Kickstarter Campaign to Fund Film about Zebra Mussel Threat

Video:

The Threat of Zebra Mussels in BC - A Short Documentary Film by Brynne Morrice — Kickstarter

We are creating a short film about zebra mussels (and their closely related cousin, quagga mussels), an invasive species of freshwater mussel that is wreaking havoc in lakes and rivers as it slowly spreads across North America. There are no zebra or quagga mussels in British Columbia, yet. However, the mussels are spread by boats traveling from one waterway to another, so all it would take is one infected boat coming into our province to set off a devastating chain of events in our freshwater.

Study To Check Kal Lake Water Quality

Written by Peter McIntyre Friday, 07 February 2014

Local government is looking at a study into water quality in the Cosens Bay area of Kalamalka Lake. Regional District of North Okanagan staff want to find out if there's any impact from septic systems from the approximately 100 homes and cottages along three kilometres of shoreline in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park. "The proposed sampling would contrast water quality and periphyton growth in the fall to that of the summer months to see if the seasonal peak in septic system use causes any detectable impacts on water quality in Cosens Bay," reads a staff report from water sustainability coordinator Emma Posluns to the RDNO and GVAC boards. RDNO is seeking a grant of $9,700 for the study from the Okanagan Basin Water Board, one of four grants applications to OBWB totalling $45,700. Other projects include $8,000 for a water ambassador summer program, $8,000 for a water sustainability educational program, and $20,000 for the North Kal Lake intake protection zone storm water reclamation project.

140207_study_to_check_kal_lake_water_quality_1075kissfm_vern.pdf

SPrKL Events 2008 to 2014

Archive of 2008-2014 — Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake

2013

RDNO guilty of not protecting water

by Carmen Weld – Central Okanagan – Story: 99241

Sep 25, 2013

Judge Mayland McKimm laid down an unprecedented verdict today (Wednesday) that found the Regional District of the North Okanagan guilty of all four quasi-criminal charges surrounding water contamination in Coldstream at the Antwerp Springs water source in January 2010.

Prior to this trial parties involved and charged (The District of Coldstream, Pan-O-Ramic Farms and Pan-O-Ramic’s former owner, Ernest Palfrey) all plead guilty to the same incident. They did not go to court and were fined $18,000.

The 2010 incident occurred at Pan-O-Ramic Farms where the owner asked an employee to cover a snow packed field with manure in early January.

By January 10 the temperature had increased rapidly and there was heavy rainfall which melted all the snow and swept the effluent into an allegedly unknown culvert that led directly to three separate wells operated by the district and owned by the RDNO.

From there it went directly to residents faucets.

Witnesses testified the water looked muddy and brown and stunk like manure as it came out of their of the taps.

Judge McKimm was adamant in his findings that the district had ample time and warnings starting back in 1999 that there was a major problem with this water system and that cross contamination was inevitable, supporting his finding the RDNO did not do their due diligence under the Water Act and Drinking Water Protection Act

“The District is criminally responsible for violating the water act and the drinking water act and I cannot on the balance of probabilities find that the district used due diligence in operating the water system in the Antwerp Wells,” stated McKimm

The judge determined the District was well aware that there were multiple issues and concerns with the well.

The shallow well was susceptible to ground water contamination and the deeper well had very high levels of magnesium that often crystallized and clogged their only safety net being a ‘Chlorine Analyzer.

The Analyzer is supposed to go off if the water is not clean enough and turn the pump off immediately but on the day of this incident the Analyzer was not working because of the magnesium crystals, something the district was well aware could happen.

The district was also warned in 2006 and again in 2008 that the cross contamination with the well and drainage system was a real concern, however, chose again to rely on the chlorine analyzer.

In 2007 Interior Health investigated and found that cross contamination was a concern but supported the district’s decision to continue to use the water system with their only sole safety net being the faulty chlorine analyzer.

“It is incumbent on district to determine sources of cross-connections and any other vulnerabilities in the system and they did not do so and continued to put the users at risk,” said Judge McKimm.

In the verdict McKimm did commend the district on their emergency response procedures on the night of the event which prevented anyone from getting sick from the water.

Emergency officials worked through the night knocking on doors to ensure affected residents in the Coldstream and Lavington communities were warned not to use the water for drinking, washing, or even laundry.

https://wsabc.ca/rdno-guilty-of-not-protecting-water/

2012

Coldstream Creek Restoration Project: Cattle Exclusion

Greater Vernon Water

Project budget: $27,376

The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) partnered with the District of Coldstream, Coldstream Ranch and the Farmland Riparian Interface Stewardship Program (FRISP) to undertake three riparian protection and rehabilitation projects on sections of Coldstream Creek, Deer Creek and Larch Creek. The identified sections had previously been accessible to cattle, causing contamination and erosion. FRISP provided input into what protection and restoration measures would be effective, designing project parameters and assisting in site reviews while Coldstream Ranch provided on-site supervision and project management. The project included a number of sites that were fenced, and restored with natural vegetation. This process ensured that cattle were removed from the sensitive riparian areas, while reducing the impact of erosion by restabilising the banks with the plants. Off-stream watering was established to ensure that cattle still had access to clean drinking water.

https://obwb.ca/wcqi_project/coldstream-creek-restoration/

Kalamalka Lake Aquatic Habitat Index

Prepared for the Okanagan Collaborative Conservation Program

Prepared by Ecoscape Environmental Consultants Ltd.

An Aquatic Habitat Index (AHI) is generated using the FIM data to determine the relative habitat value of the shoreline. This index follows similar methods that were developed for Shuswap and Okanagan Lake and is similar to other ongoing assessments along lakes in the Kootenays. The AHI uses many different factors such as biophysical criteria (e.g., shore type, substrate information, etc.) fisheries information (e.g., juvenile rearing suitability, migration and staging areas), shoreline vegetation conditions (e.g., width and type of riparian area), terrestrial ecosystem information (Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory), and modifications (e.g., docks, retaining walls, etc.) to estimate the relative habitat value of a shoreline segment. The AHI categorizes this information in a 5-Class system from Very High to Very Low and describes the relative value of the different shorelines areas to one another (i.e., describes shorelines areas within Kalamalka Lake to each other and not to other lakes (e.g., Wood or Okanagan Lake).

Kalamalka Lake Aquatic Habitat Index, December 2012.pdf

2010

Antwerp Springs Well Contamination

The 2010 incident occurred at Pan-O-Ramic Farms where the owner asked an employee to cover a snow packed field with manure in early January.

By January 10 the temperature had increased rapidly and there was heavy rainfall which melted all the snow and swept the effluent into a allegedly unknown culvert that led directly to three separate wells operated by the district and owned by the RDNO.

From there it went directly to residents faucets.

Witnesses testified the water looked muddy and brown and stunk like manure as it came out of their of the taps.

RDNO guilty of not protecting water - Water Supply Association of BC

Coldstream Creek Restoration Project

SPrKL coordinated restoration projects along the bank of Coldstream Creek between Kirkland Drive and McClounie Road.

FUNDING: District of Coldstream, Environment Canada, EBA, A Tetra Tech Company, Swan lake Nursery, Crystal Classic Exteriors

PARTICIPANTS: SPrKL Students and Volunteers, District of Coldstream Staff. Mayor of Coldstream, Coldstream Residents

SIGNIFICANCE: Over 400 riparian shrubs and trees planted at Creekside Park and 11 residences, free planting workshop, educational signage

TIMELINE May 2010 - September 2011

Foreshore Inventory and Mapping: Kalamalka & Wood Lake

The OCCP Action team formed in 2009 from OCCP partners and affiliates to coordinate this project and other FIM projects underway within the Okanagan Valley. Carried out by Ecoscape.

This project is step one of a general process of inventory and planning exercises that are happening around the province:

1. Step 1 - Shoreline Inventories following the Foreshore Inventory and Mapping (FIM) protocol (Appendix A) and additional fisheries and wildlife inventories to identify other sensitive features of concern. Inventories were conducted using a variety of methods and data was utilized from numerous different sources;

2. Step 2 - An Aquatic Habitat Index (AHI) is generated using the FIM data to determine the relative habitat value of the shoreline. This index follows similar methods that were developed for Shuswap Lake, Windermere Lake and is similar to other ongoing assessments along Shuswap Lake, Tie and Rosen Lakes, and Columbia Lake.

3. Step 3 - Shoreline Management Guidelines have been prepared for the shorelines surveyed to facilitate making informed land use decisions for our watersheds. The Shoreline Management Guidelines are intended to provide background information to stakeholders, proponents, and governmental agencies when land use changes or activities are proposed that could alter the shoreline thereby affecting fish or wildlife habitat.

The data provided in this document can be incorporated into land policy documents, such as Official Community Plans or Bylaws. The information collected during this assessment will be used as a baseline and allow development of specific objectives to be prepared for shoreline protection. Finally, once objectives have been prepared, the methodology will allow managers to assess and measure whether the specific shoreline objectives have been met over time.

Foreshore Inventory Mapping _ Kalamalka and Wood Lake, March 2010.pdf

2009

Coldstream Creek Water Quality Monitoring: 2008-2009 Final Report

July 06, 2009

Ministry of Environment, Environmental Protection Division, Penticton

In this study, the objective is to provide additional spatial and temporal definition to the water quality issues in Coldstream Creek. Understanding how agricultural and urban development impact stream water quality can aid in identifying where further monitoring, assessment or compliance efforts may be necessary.

Coldstream Creek is located within the Thompson-Okanagan Plateau east of the city of Vernon, BC, and has a total watershed area of approximately 20,600 hectares. Coldstream Creek originates in Silver Star Provincial Park and flows south through Noble Canyon to Lavington and then west where it drains into the north end of Kalamalka Lake (Figure 1). Downstream of Noble Canyon, the creek flows west along a broad valley flood plain with an average stream gradient of approximately 1% (Chapman Geoscience Ltd., 1999). Coldstream Creek is the main tributary (supplying 80% of the input) to Kalamalka Lake, which is used extensively for recreational activities and as a source of drinking water. The creek also provides habitat for a variety of aquatic life (including kokanee spawning habitat within the lower 6 km), community drinking water, and irrigation water.

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/air-land-water/water/waterquality/monitoring-water-quality/thompson-okanagan-wq-docs/coldstream-wq-final.pdf

2008

Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake Founded

The Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake (SPrKL) was founded by Christine Cookson in 2008. Christine was from Switzerland where lakes in agricultural areas were polluted and suffered from algae blooms. People there were struggling to reverse the pollution. She wanted to help keep Kalamalka Lake clean and healthy.

SPrKL’s Mission:

To preserve and protect the quality and health of Kalamalka Lake Watershed for all future generations so that the lake may be enjoyed by all user groups in an environmentally sustainable manner.

https://www.kalamalkaclassic.com/sprkl/

2007

Sensitive Habitat Inventory Mapping – Coldstream Creek

Project Budget: $33,525

Sensitive Habitat Inventory Mapping (SHIM) is intended as a standard for fish and aquatic habitat mapping in urban and rural watersheds in residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial and recreational land use areas in British Columbia. This method ensures the collection and mapping of reliable, high quality, current and spatially accurate information about local freshwater habitats and watercourses.

Area Mapped: Craster Creek, Brewer Creek, Coldstream Creek

https://obwb.ca/wcqi_project/mapping-district-of-coldstream/

Report completed 2009:

Reports & Publications | District of Coldstream

__ Table of Contents _ Introduction _ Scope of Work _ Methodology _ Results _ Closure _ References.pdf

__ Coldstream Creek_ SHIM - index map and mapsheets 1 to 21.pdf

2006

Kalavista Lagoon Habitat Enhancement Prescription by Summit Environmental

April 26, 2006

Greater Vernon Services considered infilling the canal/spur north of the Log House to create more parking. The report presented two habitat enhancement/restoration options to compensate for the potential loss of habitat:

Option 1: enhancement to habitat along the north and east sides of the lagoon, including installation of basking logs and a nesting area of the Western Painted Turtles;

Option 2: the re-establishment of historic streamflows in the diversion channels from Coldstream Creek to the lagoon, including upgrading the diversion gates and re-establishing riparian habitat along the channels.

Option 3: Additional consideration has been given to a third option of controlling carp in the lagoon by installing an exclusion fence in the channel between the lagoon and Kalamalka Lake. The fence would permit access for smaller fish, but stop carp from entering.

https://coldstream.civicweb.net/document/1302/

North Okanagan Naturalists’ Club Request for Kalavista Lagoon Restoration

We wish to consider the possibility of enhancing the small body of water between Postill Drive and Kalavista Drive (sometimes referred to as the Kalamalka Lagoon or the Kalavista Lagoon). The lagoon has become stagnant and shallow over the last fifteen to twenty years. The Kalamalka Lagoon could be improved with respect to its aesthetic value and its value as wildlife habitat for fish, waterfowl, perching birds, turtles and amphibians. Wetlands are under development pressure globally and in the Okanagan in particular, but have great ecological value to many wildlife species.

Sincerely,

Malcolm Martin, Sue Steinke, Joan Herriot, and Sharon Lawrence

(See Kalavista Lagoon Baseline Environmental Assessment 2018 appendices for further details.)

The Naturalists' Club members recalled that in the 1960’s turtles were often killed on Kalamalka Road as they crossed to access the south-facing gravel bank below the railroad tracks. There were many turtles in the lagoon. In the 1980’s there were still at least 30 turtles that could be seen basking around the lagoon which was 5 or 6 feet deep in the north end.

Joan Heriot’s Recollections in 2006

Subject: Kalagoon

Date: Aug. 27, 2006

From: Joan Heriot (typed with assistance from Sue Steinke)

To: Malcolm Martin

Malcolm,

Sharon gave me your questions yesterday... you wonder if I have any answers -yes, I do! Regarding the state of area before the present subdivision was created: The entire area of the present subdivision was occupied by a large swamp, the northern edge of which came right up to the road (Kal L. Rd). It included large areas of open water and it swarmed with life - Red-winged blackbirds and waterfowl bred there, frogs (various spp) - whose loud croakings could be heard for miles.

When the swamp was filled in, the present lagoon(s) is remnant of the original swamp presumably regarded as a municipal amenity. (I was in England at this time, and the subdivision was fully developed by the time I returned- I do not remember the date). The Coldstream Creek (which flowed thro' our property) entered the swamp at its east end. This creek flowed year in, year out. During the (June) run off it overflowed its banks and flooded a large part of our creek bottom. But, during these times, it was never muddy, and what little sediment it carried into the swamp was dropped there. The water which ran from the swamp into the lake was crystal clear- as was the lake water itself, the swamp acting as a filter.

I do not know why (or when) the creek was reduced to a single channel which carried its water straight into the lake- I have no idea when (or why) circulation of water was cut off so that the lagoon became a "lifeless" stagnant pond. Hope some of this will be of use.

Joan (Joan Heriot lived from 1911 to 2012. See Joan Heriot – Vernon Museum)

P.S. Where the swamp "met the lake" there was a wide fringe of reeds growing in clean sand.

P.P.S. During the years I was in England, from 1949 on, the Weatherills owned our place. Logging in the surrounding hills produced quantities of debris and the creek during the run-off washed out its banks and carved out great chunks of soil and gravel. We had crossed the creek on a foot-bridge composed of a single plank (at low water). The Weatherills had to build quite a large bridge to gain access with their truck to the creek bottom land to the north. I returned here in 1967, now living in a house left to me by my aunt. The house was on the lake, not far west of the Pump House [along Westkal Road]. I saw at once the lake water had quite lost its old crystal clarity. Then in 1969 the VID [Vernon Irrigation District] decided to fill in the original irrigation ditches and direct the water into pipes at run off. The excess water washed out the old ditches and was loaded with mud. What happened in the subdivision I do not know- but the creek, having lost its filter, carried its load of mud straight into the lake and the muddy water filled the whole N. arm of the lake. Eventually the mud settled on the bottom but it was stirred up inshore everytime the wind blew- and it took a long time before the water looked reasonably clear again. The extraordinarily brilliant emerald greens inshore for which the lake was famous (the "lake of many colours") were quite destroyed. They are slowly beginning to reappear now- after many years, but if they will ever return fully I doubt.

(From: Kalavista Lagoon Baseline Environmental Assessment 2018 appendices for further details.)

1984

Federal and Provincial Compensation for Long Lake Indian Reserve #5

In March 1984, the federal government paid the Okanagan Indian Band $1,422,572 in compensation for 128 acre Long Lake Indian Reserve #5. The province of BC paid the band $32,500.

1983

Cosens Bay Lagoon Study

Sediment cores indicated the lagoon has been stable since the eruption of Mount St. Helens 3200 years ago. The lagoon is slightly saline, eutrophic, extremely shallow and subject to major water level fluctuations. It is believed to have been formed by long-shore processes during a period of declining lake level. https://a100.gov.bc.ca/pub/acat/public/viewReport.do?reportId=11690

1946

Kalavista Subdivision Surveyed

According to the Vernon Museum and Archives, early in 1946, a syndicate headed by J.T. Mutrie brought forward a plan to a new group of council members that involved the development of a 58-acre subdivision. By October of 1946 the Municipality of Coldstream’s first subdivision, “Kalavista”, had been surveyed. Low points were filled and the land was leveled using horses to haul sleds of local material (J. Garlick, pers. comm. 2017). The Kalavista Lagoon was created as a water feature in the new subdivision. Ditches were created to keep the subdivision drained and bring fresh water into the south and east arms of the lagoon from Coldstream Creek. These ditches drained the properties on either side of Tebo Drive (From: Runyan, 2018, Kalavista Lagoon Baseline Environmental Assessment 2018).

1940s

Coldstream Creek Mouth Chanellized

Prior to the 1940’s, Coldstream Creek split into several tributaries in the delta, dropping much of its load of sediment. The water emerged into Kalamalka Lake clarified, and a broad band of bulrushes grew in clean sand at the interface between the marsh and the lake (Joan Herriot, pers. comm. 2006). The swamp was a delta, with several arms of Coldstream Creek flowing through it. People used to trap muskrat in the swamp and there were several ponds the size of the current lagoon (J. Garlick pers. comm. 2017). In part because the creek was still geologically new, and constrained to a channel in many locations, it picked up much sediment at high water, muddying Kalamalka Lake. This effect was worsened by the fact that Coldstream Creek was also channelized near its mouth, likely in the 1940’s, and diverted from the large delta marsh to its present course, likely to allow the swamp to dry out. Swamp land was then moved around with horses and sleds to create raised areas (J. Garlick, pers. comm. 2017). Material from the lagoon was piled up leaving a depression (the lagoon) and raised areas for building (From: Runyan, 2018, Kalavista Lagoon Baseline Environmental Assessment 2018).

1908

Coldstream Creek Altered

Prior to 1907, waters from Silver Star Mountain flowed south through Nobel Canyon and then east toward Lumby and into the Shuswap River watershed at low water. During high flood, some water also likely flowed towards Kalamalka Lake into the Columbia River system (Ted Osborne, pers. comm. 2018) because the outflow of Nobel Canyon was on a topographic divide. Between 1907 and 1909, Whitevalley Irrigation, a subsidiary of the Coldstream Ranch, was involved in diverting these waters west to join the waters of Coldstream Creek to Kalamalka Lake along its present course (Ted Osborne, pers. comm. 2018, from Runyan, 2018, Kalavista Lagoon Baseline Environmental Assessment 2018). Prior to receiving water from Silver Star, Coldstream Creek was fed by water from the Aberdeen Plateau via Brewer Creek, Craster Creek and other creeks to the south.

1876

Kalamalka Lake Indian Reserve #5 (Established in 1876)

From An Early History of Coldstream and Lavington by Anne Pearson
(1986): This reserve was granted 128 acres and included Kal Beach, the Kalavista Subdivision area, timbered hillside, and the outflow of Coldstream Creek. The reserve was done away with following a Federal and Provincial Royal Commission on Indian Lands published in 1916.

In 1876, when John Jane surveyed the Coldstream, he drew a sketch of the Indian reserve at the head of Long Lake (as Kalamalka Lake was then called). The area of the Kalavista Subdivision was covered by a large swamp and brush with a clearing where hay was grown. The Sylix people who lived there made baskets, mats and household items from the reeds (cattails and bullrushes) that grew on the wetlands. John Jane noted that the land at the mouth of Coldstream Creek is occupied by an old Indian named Francois, who has about 40 to 60 acres fenced and under cultivation. He has a paper dated 1861 signed by Judge Cox warning people not to trespass on this “Indian Reservation”. Every September, according to Leslie Macdonell many Indians would come from the reserve at the head of Okanagan Lake to the mouth of Coldstream Creek to net Kokanee heading upstream. They smoked them on the banks of the creek.

Kalamalka Lake & SPKL Timeline

2025

Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake delivers petition to Vernon-Lumby MLA, Interior Health

SPrKL launches petition about protecting Coldstream creek

North Okanagan Regional District seeking grant to improve water quality

North Okanagan folk plunge into 2025

2024

Solstice by the Shore

Kalamalka Lake pier signage plan given approval by Coldstream council

Replacement of Coldstream's Kal Beach pier to begin next week

Lake Country mayor addresses water woes ahead of B.C. election

Magic paddling on North Okanagan's 'lake of many colours'

Oyama Canal dredging completed after five year struggle

Coldstream dog owners frustrated with limited access to Kal Lake

Algae Thick on Rocks at Rattlesnake Point

A swimming advisory has been issued for Kalamalka Beach due to high bacteriological counts found in the water at various locations in the swim area.

Exceptional quality of life at Owl’s Nest Estates on Kalamalka Lake

RDNO Kalamalka Lake Intake Water Quality 2024

After years fighting red tape Lake Country group permitted to dredge Oyama Canal

Okanagan Gondola project takes another step forward

North Okanagan’s Kal Lake at lowest water level since 2004

2 mortars found in 5 weeks at Coldstream’s Kal Park

2023

Kal water source to serve Duteau Creek customers due to low reservoirs

Strange houseboat reveals a possible loophole in maritime law

Runoff's heavy sediment flow draws line in Kalamalka Lake

Coldstream beach gets World Water Day clean up

District calls on ministry to pay for creek moving project

2022

Coldstream groups aim to keep Kal Lake sparkling

Coldstream's Kalamalka Lake named after First Nation chief