The Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Project (TMX) has suspended construction in the Bridal Falls area near Chilliwack, BC, following the discovery of a woodpecker’s nest..In a statement TMX said various surveys had been conducted by wildlife resource specialists in the Bridal Falls region, adding that appropriate buffers were established — including one associated with the red-breasted sapsucker..The corporation says buffer zones for active nests are marked by rope, signs, and flagging tape so they are clearly visible, further reiterating that trees and vegetation within the buffer zone where active nests are present are not cut down until confirmation is received from wildlife specialists..The specialists, according to TMX, are "ethically bound by professional regulating bodies.".Construction is currently halted for approximately 400 metres until further notice..The Community Nest Finding Network (CNFN) received a call from a Chilliwack resident in early June, concerned that TMX was clearing trees during nesting season..CNFN followed up and documented an “obvious and easily-visible” red-breasted sapsucker nest in addition to other species.. Nesting sapsucker .“It is shocking that Trans Mountain biologists failed to locate or report these nests,” said CNFN co-founder, Sarah Ross via a Stop TMX release..“Every time the CNFN has investigated a Trans Mountain site just before the chainsaws, we have discovered nests about to be destroyed.”.Criticizing the corporation for its inability to locate nests, Ross says TMX should not be allowed to cut trees during peak nesting season, noting the sapsucker’s importance in the ecosystem..TMX maintains that it has competent protocols in place for migratory bird nest surveys which it says are initiated prior to construction activities and clearing.."Environmental professionals have logged more than 25,000 person-days working diligently in the field to identify environmental features and habitat prior to construction to ensure proper mitigation, including avoidance, can be developed prior to construction commencing," reads a TMX statement.
