RAM Consulting works on B.C. River Debris Clean Up Program

Photo Credit: RAM Consulting

Vancouver-based engineering firm RAM Consulting is overseeing what’s being called a major part of the B.C. ‘River Debris Clean Up Program’ – a rapid emergency response initiative supporting community recovery from the catastrophic flooding that took place in British Columbia last year.

Following the 2021 floods, which pushed large debris into critical waterways and significantly impacted highway structures and local communities throughout B.C., the provincial government funded the ‘River Debris Clean Up Program’ supported by RAM’s involvement in the Cook’s Ferry Indian Band Alliance.

In February 2022, RAM officials said, they mobilized their team to assist in the removal and disposal of anthropogenic man-made debris deposited in rivers to ultimately enable the ecosystem to rebuild. “To ensure all the communities impacted were supported, the project incorporated Indigenous oversight and engagement through monitoring and subcontracting,” RAM said.

RAM provided safety and construction management services to support the safe removal of debris in B.C. rivers, including the Nicola, Coldwater, Tulameen, Similkameen, Fraser, Chilliwack and Coquihalla rivers. The company was responsible for the time-sensitive mobilization of equipment and collaborative methodologies that complied with landowner requirements, including First Nations governing bodies.

“RAM is proud to be part of the Province’s restoration effort to help rebuild all communities that were affected by the devastating floods,” said Dean Clark, RAM’s director of major projects. “To be on the ground and see the devastation first hand provided the motivation to help communities get back to some form of normalcy. It was very rewarding to see the Province, Municipalities, First Nations, and contractors come together in a short period of time to achieve the clean-up success to date. There is still a long way to go.”

RAM and its partners operated under a tight timeline, the said, working to remove as much high-risk debris from the rivers, and ensuring to wrap up the project before river levels increased.

Throughout the project, RAM worked closely with local First Nations communities, including Cooks Ferry Indian Band, Shaken, and members nations of the Sto:lo Tribal Council.