BC Hydro is celebrating its 50th birthday this year with a community celebration in Campbell River.
As Hydro turns 50 years old, it is also preparing for the next 50 years by regenerating the electricity system that keeps BC powered.
On Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., BC Hydro will host a celebration event beside the John Hart Generating Station.
This free family-friendly event located on a grass field features bucket truck rides, kids’ activities like a bouncy castle and games, hot dogs and a chance to meet BC Hydro staff and learn more about where BC Hydro has come from and where it is going.
“BC Hydro plays a significant role in the Campbell River community with our Campbell River system hydroelectric operations and our two offices with about 80 staff,” adds Watson. “It would be great to see the community out at the John Hart site to see us.”
The event will feature experts and interactive displays on topics such as the John Hart Generating Station Replacement Project, the Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program, Power Pioneers, smart meters, Power Smart and public safety.
“BC Hydro has not provided a community event like this in many years so this is a great opportunity to meet various BC Hydro experts in an informal setting, and also meet our power line technicians who safely restore power to your homes and businesses in sometimes harsh weather conditions,” said BC Hydro spokesperson, Stephen Watson. “One of the most popular attractions will be the bucket rides from our power line trucks that will be positioned beside the Campbell River. Our staff will safely lift people up and over the trees and position the bucket over the river, only about 75 metres downstream of the generating station. This one experience tells the Hydro story of how clean power is keeping the lights on.”
Due to limited parking on BC Hydro property, Hydro is providing free public transit to the John Hart site with the bus leaving downtown Campbell River from the Community Centre.
The bus will be making the round trips beginning at 10:30 am.
Campbell River is the last of eight BC Hydro 50th anniversary events in the province.