Frustrated from DFO discussions: Lax Kw'alaams to consider coordinated fishery

A Notice to Lax Kw'alaams Salmon Harvesters is outlining some of the frustrations that the 2019 salmon season is delivering to all on the North Coast, with officials of Lax Kw'alaams Fisheries now giving thought to a co-ordinated fishery for their membership.

The letter outlines some of the concerns that came out of meetings with DFO held on August 1st and 2nd, with Lax Kw'alaams officials noting that the current management practices in place in 2019 have resulted in the absence of cooperation and collaboration.

Towards their own fishing plans, Lax Kw'alaams is currently asking members to contact them with information related to their vessels, with the date of the coordinated fishery to be announced when all information has been assembled.

Yesterday DFO announced a limited First Nations marine fishery, observing how slightly improving sockeye returns should allow for limited harvest by Skeena First Nations for food, social and ceremonial purposes.

In light of the slightly improved run size estimates, some limited harvest of Skeena Sockeye will be permitted by Skeena First Nations for FSC purposes. 

As of 17:00 hours Tuesday August 6,2019, the following measures were implemented to First Nations FSC fishery: 1. For Area 4, Subareas 5-1, 5-2, 5-3, 5-10 and 5-11 and Subareas 3-1, 3-2, 3-3 and 3-4: - Retention of Sockeye is permitted; - Use of gill nets is permitted; - First Nations' fisheries staff will be monitoring and reporting catch to ensure that catch levels are sustainable given current estimates. 2. 

For the Skeena River from the Area 4 commercial boundary (Mowitch Point to Vetch Point) to the confluence with the Babine River and up to the Babine weir: - Retention of Sockeye will not be permitted; - Use of gill nets will not be permitted; - Fishing for other species using gear types other than gill net will continue to be permitted, in accordance with communal licences.

First nations fishery staff will be monitoring and recording catch levels as that fishery moves forward.

Further items of interest from Lax Kw'alaams can be explored here.

More notes on the North Coast Fishery can be found here.