The boathouse at Buntzen Lake is about to be replaced.
And BC Hydro, which controls the reservoir in Anmore, is calling for comments about the proposed work, until Sept. 15.
On Tuesday, Aug. 20, a spokesperson for the provincial Crown agency told the Tri-City News the boathouse is nearing the end of its life.
Anchored to the lake bottom with concrete lock blocks, the existing boathouse will be removed — with a crane — and a new structure will be built about 10’ further out from the shore, and its walkway extended.
“The extension will ensure that when the reservoir is operating at low levels the boathouse is not sitting on the lakebed and putting stress on the frame,” the spokesperson said.
Construction will be done about 50 metres west of the public boat launch.
The boathouse holds boating equipment used for safety patrols and water rescues.
At 4.8-km long, Buntzen Lake “is our busiest public use area and has experienced large increases in visitors over the last several years,” the spokesperson added.
Until Sept. 2, 2024, parking passes are required to visit Buntzen Lake; there is no cost to make a reservation. Half- and full-day parking passes are available starting at 7 a.m. the day before a visit. A printed pass or QR code is needed for entry.
To have your say on the boathouse replacement, visit the Ministry of Water, Land and Stewardship website and enter the file number 2412833. Alternatively, you can write to Sr. Authorization Specialist, WRLS, South Coast Region, Suite 200, 10428-153 St., Surrey, BC, V3R 1E1. Comments are considered to be public record.
