Zebra Mussels are an aquatic invasive species that reproduce very quickly, cause negative ecological impacts, deteriorate infrastructure, and negatively impact the economy. Since being introduced into the Laurentian Great Lakes region in the 1980s, Zebra Mussels have spread to southern Ontario, south and central Manitoba, southern Québec and New Brunswick, and are a growing threat.
Chilcotin Region, British Columbia – On July 30, a significant landslide occurred in the lower Chilcotin River, a major tributary to the Fraser River, and severely disrupted the river habitat, blocking upstream migration of adult Chinook and Sockeye salmon, and degrading water quality.
Bella Coola, BC – Protecting, conserving and restoring wild Pacific salmon stocks in British Columbia is a key priority for the Government of Canada. Pacific salmon hatcheries have a key role to play in this effort and are critical in aiding the recovery of vulnerable stocks.
Pacific salmon are under threat due to climate change, habitat degradation and other pressures. In British Columbia, some endangered and at-risk populations have dropped dramatically and could be at risk of disappearing completely. Hatcheries, which incubate, rear and release Pacific salmon to live alongside their wild counterparts, are a key component in supporting and restoring these vulnerable populations.
Port Hardy, British Columbia - An investigation by fishery officers from Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s (DFO) Whale Protection Unit, Fraser Coastal Detachment, has resulted in a hefty fine for Vancouver-based River Road Films Ltd. and their drone operator for operating a drone too close to Northern Resident Killer Whales (NRKWs).
Prince George, British Columbia – Fraser River salmon have significant cultural, social and ecological importance to many First Nations and British Columbians; however, many are in serious, long-term decline and without our help, some runs may disappear entirely. The Government of Canada is working with First Nations to support Fraser River salmon, with the goal of restoring them to a sustainable level for future generations.
Although it poses no risks to human health, the recent detection of MSX disease, or multinucleate sphere unknown X (MSX), in oysters in Prince Edward Island (PEI) was devastating news for the oyster industry in the region. MSX affects both wild and cultured oysters, preventing them from thriving due to decreased rates of growth and increased rates of oyster mortality.
Small craft harbours are at the heart of many coastal communities, bringing people together for work and leisure, while supporting jobs in the fish and seafood industry for more than 45,000 Canadians.
