A scheduled emergency power outage on Thursday, July 3, temporarily cut electricity to the entire Woss-to-north region—except for Port Alice, which remained powered by a generator. The outage, which lasted from 12 to 5 p.m., was prompted by the discovery of a broken cross arm on a transmission structure just south of Woss. BC Hydro deemed the issue critical and moved quickly to address it.

“We understand the timing was difficult, especially during a busy season for businesses and tourism,” said BC Hydro spokesperson Ted Olynyk. “We’re grateful for everyone’s patience and understanding.”

The defect was discovered just a day before the outage. Given the risk of structural failure and potential fire, BC Hydro acted swiftly, notifying the public through social media and the North Island Gazette.

Thanks to fast coordination and response, crews completed repairs ahead of schedule, restoring power by 3:30 p.m.

“Everything went smoothly,” Olynyk said. “Outstanding planning, strong teamwork, and the dedication of our crews—some of whom returned from holidays—made it possible to get the job done early.”

Olynyk also emphasized that many BC Hydro team members live in the island communities they serve and take outages personally.

“They care deeply about their work and their neighbours,” he added. “Hats off to the team for stepping up and helping minimize the disruption.”

Watering restrictions are in effect to ensure sufficient water reserves for firefighting and adequate supply for all residents. Please adhere to the following schedule for outdoor water use:

Even Numbered Addresses
Watering permitted on even numbered dates

Odd Numbered Addresses
Watering permitted on odd numbered dates

Permitted Watering Times
6am to 10am
6pm to 10pm

In the past months there has been significant public concern around the behaviour of a sow grizzly with two cubs and a separate boar that have established a territory in much of the residential area of the Village of Sayward and the SRD Area A. We have compiled a timeline of sightings that can be referenced for communications with media or government agencies. This list will be updated over time. Please email Hello@GoSayward.com or tag @GoSayward on Facebook to catch our attention so we add your future sightings.

• July 7th – At Elk Haven Cabins
• July 6th – Behind the Legion
• June 27th – Seen by the mushroom farm.
• June 27th – Seen in a driveway near Sayward Road and Salmon River Main.
• June 27th – Seen near farm stand on Frenchman Road.
• June 27th – Seen in back yard on Cheryl Lynn Road.
• June 24th – Seen at standing up looking over fenceline of home near Cable House, undisturbed by 4 dogs.
• June 22nd – Seen crossing the White River near the highway bridge.
• June 21st – Seen in a driveway on Smit Road.
• June 20th – Seen in front of a house on Sachts Road.
• June 20th – Encountered on trail by river in the Valley.
• June 19th – Seen walking through front yard of home on Sachts Road.
• June 13th – Juvenile bear charged dogs on a property near Sayward Rd and Salmon River Main intersection.
• June 13th – Seen behind tennis courts by Kelsey Centre.
• June 10th – Seen by Sayward Elementary.
• June 10th – Seen in the Salmon River Estuary.
• May 27th – Seen in the Salmon River Estuary.
• May 21st – Seen in the Salmon River Estuary.
• May 17th – Seen in the Salmon River Estuary.
• May 15th – Seen in the old mall parking lot.
• May 13th – Seen behind the Salmon River Inn.
• May 13th – Seen by the Royal Canadian Legion.
• May 12th – Seen on Kelly’s Trail.
• May 9th – Seen in the Salmon River Estuary.