BC Hydro crews have responded to over 61,000 trouble calls in 2025 – and some were anything but ordinary. From birds and beavers to fishing lines and cicadas, here are a few of the year’s most memorable incidents: Godzilla in the grid: In December, three major storms swept across B.C. The last one even sent […]

Parents throughout British Columbia have spoken, choosing Noah as the year’s most beloved name for newborns. The name Noah took first place this year, with 198 more choices of Noah than last year’s most popular name, Oliver. Noah took first place in 2022 and 2023. According to B.C.’s Vital Statistics Agency, the top 10 baby names in British […]

E-Comm releases its annual top ten list reminding the public to keep 9-1-1 lines free for emergencies only When a store refuses to return your air fryer, an airline fines your oversized carry-on, or your dishwasher breaks, 9-1-1 is not the appropriate number to call. E-Comm is reminding British Columbians that 9-1-1 is for emergencies, […]

These nine gorgeous puppies were born and lovingly raised in a KAAP foster home, where they’ve been surrounded by care, cuddles and early socialization from day one. Their mama is a sweet yellow Lab mix, and while dad is a mystery, we suspect he may have Catahoula and/or Australian Shepherd traits—so expect smart, loyal pups […]

On Saturday, December 27th the discharge rates from Arrow Lakes Reservoir will fluctuate. When combined with the outflows from the Kootenay River, Columbia River levels at Birchbank are expected to increase by nearly three 3 feet. Please make safety your top priority when planning activities near the Columbia River. For up-to-date reservoir elevation and river […]

DELEGATIONS Wildsafe BC – Community Coordinator Update Tara Pejski, WildSafeBC Community Coordinator, presented a summary of WildSafe BC activities completed in 2025 to the Council, highlighting education and outreach initiatives focused on reducing wildlife attractants and promoting coexistence within the community.  Watch the presentation at the 00:00:43 mark City of Castlegar – Organizational Plan Chris Barlow, Chief […]

‘Tis the season to celebrate with loved ones, but our furry companions can’t always tell the difference between holiday items and hazards. The crunchy crinkle of tinsel feels and sounds similar to a cat toy, a mistake that landed one feline friend in emergency surgery. When the cat’s owner noticed she was behaving oddly —  […]

There are variations of the origin story of the NORAD/Santa tradition (just like with all other long-standing traditions) but we all agree it started 70 years ago this Christmas. I’ll tell you what I know. It started in 1955 when a child called CONAD (Continental Air Defense Command) looking to talk to Santa Claus. Now, […]

Many of us are getting in the swing of the holiday season, It’s an exciting time, and one I’m so happy to be back in Fruitvale with my family, friends and loved ones to celebrate. We should keep safe and celebrate with care and concern for others. Recently many of us have been reminded of treacherous weather […]

The province says quicker permitting and stronger partnerships for wildfire salvage means protecting forestry jobs. Working with the forestry sector, First Nations and local governments, the Ministry of Forests cut red tape in 2025, making it easier to harvest burned timber and get the wood into local mills. Heading into 2026, that work continues, turning the […]