Tag Archives: Indigenous fish weirs

Centuries-old Pentlatch fish trap panel connects K’ómoks, Qualicum people to their ancestors

Editor’s note: Fish traps like this would also have been used by other Ayajuthem speaking peoples (The Klahoose, Homalco and First Nations) who have a shared ancestry with the K’ómoks First Nation. These are the most northern Coast Salish Nations.

By Madeline Dunnett, The Discourse Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

As a child, Pamela Mitchell recalls her father telling her about the ancient fish traps on the shoreline of K’ómoks territory, near her home.

As she learned about the traps, which were used over generations by her ancestors, and their corresponding posts sticking out of the water, she recalls her dad telling her, “don’t touch! They are very old!”

Continue reading Centuries-old Pentlatch fish trap panel connects K’ómoks, Qualicum people to their ancestors

Tradition meets modern: Restoring wild salmon habitat

Canada’s National Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

First Nations working to restore wild salmon and vital fish habitat on northeastern Vancouver Island will receive $3.4 million for a trio of stewardship projects in the Campbell River region. 

The restoration of salt marshes in the Campbell River estuary, a new fish trap based on traditional practices, and a hatchery are being jointly funded by the B.C. and federal governments

The estuary and fish trap projects, which also involve Greenways Land Trust and A-Tlegay Fisheries Society as partners, reflect the Wei Wai Kum Nation’s goal to revitalize salmon populations, said Chief Coun. Chris Roberts. 

Continue reading Tradition meets modern: Restoring wild salmon habitat