Shoreline works result in $45,000 fine for cottagers

Posted 9 months ago

On Oct. 31, William Michael Montgomery and Frances Marion McQuestion were fined a combined total of $45,000 after being convicted at trial for a violation of the Fisheries Act for "the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction of fish habitat." The offence occurred on Kennisis Lake.

In addition to the fines, Her Worship D.L. Jackson also ordered the removal of a shoreline structure known as an aerodrome or ramp, and associated construction materials as part of the process of restoring affected fish habitat.

In 2002, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) launched an investigation after learning that an aerodrome was built on Kennisis Lake in a manner that destroyed fish habitat. Having previously entered into discussion with DFO about fish-friendly designs, it was discovered that the defendants then built the aerodrome in a manner that resulted in an infill of fish habitat.

At the request of DFO, Her Worship Jackson ordered that $40,500 of the fine be directed to the Kennisis Lake Cottagers' Association for the purpose of carrying out fish habitat improvement projects within Kennisis Lake.

Prior to undertaking any work in or around water, Fisheries and Oceans Canada encourages the public to ensure they have all necessary permits and approvals from municipal, provincial and federal agencies and authorities.

DFO media release