DFO AND LOWER FRASER FIRST NATIONS COLLABORATE

ON MULTI-YEAR DRIFT AND SET NET STUDY

Chilliwack, B.C. – Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and Lower Fraser River First Nations are collaborating on a research project to study drift and set net fisheries on migratory sockeye stocks. The objectives are to estimate catch rates and compare the effectiveness of the two gear types in the Fraser River between the Mission Bridge and the Rosedale-Agassiz Bridge. Research sites will be established and operated at Queen’s Bar and Cheam Beach.

This study will address recommendations made by both the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans (SCOFO) and the Williams 2004 Salmon Review. The outcome of the study will be useful for making informed decisions about impacts to stocks above Mission. 

Fisheries Management in DFO and Lower Fraser First Nations have recognized the need for more information about in-river drift and set net fisheries and the role that this information could play in improving fisheries management decisions. The study will begin to address information gaps and generate useful data that will provide broad-based benefits to all users of the resource.  

In addition to the scientific objectives of the project, this study is intended to improve the working relationship between DFO and Lower Fraser First Nations, and to enhance efforts to increase capacity within Lower Fraser First Nations communities.

This collaborative research initiative is supported by the Sto:lo Tribal Council, Cheam First Nation, Skwah First Nation and Fisheries and Oceans Canada. 

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