By Lyonel Doherty
editor@columbiavalleypioneer.com
While the US government has paused negotiations on the Columbia River Treaty, the powers that be on the Canadian side will “defend our interests,” says the minister responsible.
Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions Adrian Dix hosted a virtual information session on March 25 to provide an update on the status of the treaty’s modernization and to answer questions.
Dix was joined by Brittny Anderson, MLA for Kootenay Central, and Steve Morissette, MLA for Kootenay Monashee. In addition, more than 600 members of the public tuned in.
Dix said a lot has changed, citing a new U.S. government and its attack on Canada’s sovereignty.
“It has made people think a lot about the treaty and its implications on our relationships.”
The minister noted that some people have suggested that Canada cancel the treaty, but he said this agreement in principle (reached in July 2024) is a significant part of modern history that impacts the lives of many people in the Columbia Basin.
“In short, Canadian action to terminate the treaty would have little effect on the current dispute and would obviously involve losses on all sides. But let’s be clear, we’re going to defend our interests . . .”
Dix added that a modernized treaty would provide greater or balanced benefits to both countries compared to the existing treaty. For example, he said B.C. would gain significant flexibility to address its environmental, First Nations, and socio-economic objectives (without needing agreement from the US). In addition, the province would also have certainty for its share of compensation through treaty benefits.
Dix said the Americans would benefit from preplanned flood risk management, keeping with one of the treaty’s most important functions – to reduce the risk of damaging floods in the US.
The minister said it’s not unusual for a new government to press pause on current negotiations, but he was candid in saying that US President Donald Trump’s actions of late (tariffs) represent “vicious, anti-Canadian attacks.”
MLA Brittny Anderson said she has never seen this much interest in the treaty, and noted that Canada’s entitlement will continue until 2044, securing predictable benefits to B.C. She noted the entitlement includes B.C.’s share of the increased power generating potential of the US system, which is sent to the province in the form of electricity, rights of transmission, and flood risk implementation.
MLA Steve Morissette said he has lived in the Basin all of his life and has heard people’s concerns. He agreed that the treaty provides benefits to people and the environment on both sides of the border.
During question period, Dix said the pause in negotiations has no bearing on BC Hydro’s current operations in the reservoirs.
Another question focused on fish runs related to the treaty.
Kathy Eichenberger, the treaty’s executive director, said salmon is a core component in the treaty’s modernization. She noted that when they started the consultation process, “everyone wanted to see the return of the salmon,” and that confidence is growing.
Negotiator Jay Johnson from Okanagan Nation Alliance confirmed there is mutual interest around salmon. “We hope to get back to the table; we want to maintain fish flows to ensure the smolts are carried downstream.”
Johnson said there is a deepened collaboration with the US in regards to salmon studies and operations. “We’re really looking forward to the outcomes to ensure the salmon get over the blockages to their natural spawning grounds.”
The negotiator said that up to 89 per cent of sockeye salmon spawn in Canada.
“We’re building on success, doing our best to ensure that water systems can accommodate the salmon.”
Another question was asked about First Nations’ involvement and decision-making in the treaty.
Nathan Mathew, a Secwépemc Nation member, has been actively involved in treaty negotiations that have focused on water management and hydro-electric power along the river.
He said the negotiations have been positive for First Nations in the Basin.
“We have a seat at the table, we go to all the sessions, we’re involved in planning and strategy, we have rights within the basin . . . and reconciliation is being dealt with in a good way.”
Dix answered a question about the behaviour of the US administration towards Canada and what is being done about it. He stated that officials are preparing for all scenarios and potential actions.
“We love the United States, we have always loved the United States, but we do not understand the treatment we are receiving (after being allies for so many years).”
When asked why it has taken so long to get where we are in the treaty, Dix said these international issues are very challenging, particularly in the US considering its political landscape.
“There is a lot at stake . . . for people in the Columbia Basin this is visceral.”
One individual who tuned into the meeting wanted to know what impact the federal election will have on the treaty.
Dix only said it is “critical” that everyone get out to vote, noting this is “one of the most important federal elections in history.”
Members of the public are encouraged to continue sharing comments and questions about the treaty and the agreement in principle by emailing columbiarivertreaty@gov.bc.ca