The Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory (DRAO) has been at the center of more than 50 years of astronomical science and technology development.
On Monday, the B.C. NDP introduced legislation to allow continued operation of the facility near Penticton, B.C.
The ‘Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act, 2023 (Bill 6)’ would allow the special protection for the Federal Research Observatory to continue.
“The proposed legislation would allow for the extension of a unique land-use agreement within the regional district of Okanagan-Similkameen,” read the statement from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs.
“which minimizes interference to the observatory by limiting the number of nearby housing developments and banning household electrical appliances that can cause radio-frequency interference.”
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If passed, the legislation allows for land use contracts to be extended for 10 years.
In an email to Global News, the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) said they are aware of the recent introduction of provincial legislation.
The NRC said it would be “watching with interest.”
According to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, the proposed legislation follows a request from the federal government and is supported by the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen (RDOS).
Furthermore, the ministry says that 21 First Nations were consulted about the proposed expansion.
“LUC-6-D provides protection for the Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory (DRAO) against development within a certain perimeter that could amplify radio signals that would interfere with their operation that a specific zoning bylaws cannot duplicate Bill Newell, with RDOS, said in testimony
“The federal government is working with the province on how best to protect the observatory. The regional district is aware of the discussions and has no objection to the expansion of LUC-6-D.”
Meanwhile, land use contracts in B.C. are due to expire in 2024. However, this new law may act as an exemption.
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