FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Visitors to Inga Lake can expect lower water levels this fall as Ducks Unlimited Canada begins assessment work on the lake’s water-control infrastructure.
The organization says water levels began being lowered in mid-September and are expected to drop by about one metre as engineers and technical staff inspect the dam and water-control structures.
The drawdown will help determine the condition of the infrastructure and identify options for its long-term future.
According to Ducks Unlimited Canada, the length of time the lake remains at a reduced level will depend on the findings of the technical assessment and any future planning requirements.
The organization stressed that lowering the water does not represent a decision about the long-term future of either the dam or Inga Lake itself.
The work follows a June announcement from the Province of British Columbia that provided approximately $500,000 for assessment, planning, and engineering work at Inga Lake as part of a broader $1.5-million provincial investment in conservation infrastructure.
“As a popular recreational fishing spot and a true community treasure, Inga Lake holds immense value in the Northeast,” said Matt Christensen, manager of provincial operations for Ducks Unlimited Canada in B.C.
Inga Lake has been managed through a partnership between Ducks Unlimited Canada and the Province of B.C. since 1990.
“This assessment work is essential for understanding the water-control structure’s integrity and identifying practical paths forward,” said Christensen.
The province owns the dam and holds the water licence, while Ducks Unlimited oversees habitat conservation management, including operations, maintenance and regulatory compliance of the water-control structures.
Once the assessment is complete, Ducks Unlimited says the findings will help guide discussions about potential next steps for the facility.
Located at Mile 91 of the Alaska Highway between Fort St. John and Fort Nelson, Inga Lake is a popular recreation destination known for fishing opportunities and a maintained free campground.