This is in relation to the proposed Taseko Mining – Yellowhead mine to be located just outside of Vavenby and more importantly a high voltage power transmission line running form the 100 Mile House sub-station all the way to Vavenby to power this project.

The proposed line would be a 230,000V high power line that would be running east from the sub-station, through public land as well as ranches, farms, and private properties of full time and seasonal residents. Many of whom are not even aware of this project being proposed and how it will impact them.

First off, I’m not fighting the mine project. That is a different fight for different reasons by different people. I will say only that Taseko Mining owns Gibraltar mine, one of the most polluting and highest risk mines in BC. I am simply fighting against running the high voltage line through the proposed path. I’m not even fighting it being ran, just not the way they want to.

Properties near or with a direct view of high-power transmission lines and towers are worth less. Market studies have shown that these properties on average are worth 15% to 30% less than those without them. A 2018 study of vacant lots near transmission lines showed a reduction of almost 45% than comparable lots without them. Those properties also sit on the market significantly longer. With towers ranging in size from 50 to 180 feet in height, this can impact properties as far as half a kilometer away. Want another reason, noise. High voltage power lines can generate noise up to 80dbA, that’s the equivalent of standing beside a garbage disposal. So if you own property near this proposed path, be ready for a financial hit and don’t be surprised if your quiet back yard is no more. 

The proposed line runs almost over my house and through/beside other properties. It also is going to be running through wetlands, forests, over creeks, rivers, and lakes. The path required to be cleared for the construction of it will affect all those, the local wildlife, as well as the residents.

If the community wants this project and if they support some corporation that only wants more profits and doesn’t actually care about the people, let them run it along already well established paths. Don’t destroy sensitive areas and habitat. Don’t bull-doze new paths and don’t ruin the dreams and hard work of the people that support this community. If you actually care about progress and the people, do what doesn’t harm them.