Yesterday the ORRI team received the unfortunate news that the work on VDS 13 (Vertical Drop Structure) cannot be done this year due to high flows in the Okanagan River.  We had the same situation last year.  In-the-river work must be done in a very narrow window and the flow cannot be be reduced adequately this year.

Sockeye are holding in Osoyoos Lake and as soon as the river temperature drops after a cold night or two, they will make their way up to spawn.  Should be quite a spectacle.

We are thinking of have a celebratory day with guided tours during the spawning peak.  I will keep in touch if this does actually happen.

ORRI held a public meeting Tuesday to talk about the project with about 14 people attending. No contentious issues.

Lee McFadyen – ORRI project spokesperson