Elk Valley Resources (EVR) is proud to announce the successful completion of the Suzanne Creek Marsh Project, a significant investment in wetland conservation in the southeast Kootenays. This $1.3 million project, funded by EVR, helps secure the marsh’s future and ensures its continued role in providing wildlife habitat and supporting regional biodiversity.
Suzanne Creek Marsh was originally constructed by Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) in 1986 near Jaffray, B.C. Without intervention, aging water control infrastructure would have led to a dramatic reduction of the wetland—from 10.6 hectares to just 1.47 hectares—representing an 86% loss of habitat. To address this risk, EVR entered into an agreement with DUC to design, rebuild, and maintain the wetland on the landscape.
“The Suzanne Creek Marsh provides valuable habitat for a variety of wildlife that call it home, and EVR’s investment ensures it remains a productive ecosystem for decades to come,” said Mike Carrucan, CEO of EVR.
The rebuild involved replacing critical water control structures to maintain appropriate water levels and prevent habitat degradation. The improved design will sustain more than 10 hectares of wetland, preserving a diverse mix of cattail marsh, swamp wetland, and shallow open-water communities, all surrounded by mature forest.
“DUC has nearly 6.4 million acres under conservation stewardship across Canada, and continued funding for the management and enhancement of these landscapes is critical for wildlife and communities,” said Paul Thoroughgood, Acting Chief Conservation Officer at Ducks Unlimited Canada. “We are extremely grateful to EVR for their commitment to sustaining wetlands like Suzanne Creek Marsh.”
The marsh supports a wide range of wildlife, including waterfowl and songbirds; amphibians such as the Columbia spotted frog; reptiles including the Western painted turtle; and mammals such as muskrat, beaver, and elk. Ten bat species have also been documented at the site. The area is designated as ungulate winter range and provides critical habitat for the American badger.
