Semá:th Territory, Abbotsford, BC, September 27, 2023 – Sumas First Nation (Semá:th) is pleased to announce the commencement of a significant environmental initiative made possible through the PSSI Harvest Transformation Grant. In collaboration with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and under scientific permits issued by DFO, Semá:th will be conducting a pilot project involving a temporary fish weir and trap installation. This innovative endeavor will take place approximately 400 meters downstream of the Keith Wilson Bridge, situated on the Sumas-Chilliwack River, within Semá:th’s Traditional Territory.
The pilot project is scheduled to take place in two phases, with the first phase occurring from September 27, 2023 to September 30, 2023 and the second phase from October 10, 2023 to October 13, 2023. Throughout these deployment periods, the fish weir and trap will be continuously monitored 24/7, with the primary objective of conducting surveys. Importantly, no fish will be retained during this process. The data collected will provide essential insights into the success of the project under varying environmental conditions, fish interactions, species identification, quantity, and condition. This information will also help assess the feasibility of future food, social, and ceremonial harvest opportunities for Semá:th.
It is crucial to note that the fish weir and trap will not obstruct more than 2/3 of the river channel, and they will be appropriately marked with identification and the scientific permit license number. For safety and monitoring purposes, we kindly request that a boundary of approximately 25 meters up and downstream of the weir and trap box be respected by all river users during these pilot phases.
For any further inquiries or information regarding this project, please feel free to contact:
- Troy Ganzeveld, Councillor, at troy.ganzeveld@sumasfirstnation.com
- Amanda Gawor, Natural Resources Officer, at amanda.gawor@sumasfirstnation.com
We understand that the short timeline imposed by DFO for the scientific permit finish date has resulted in a delay in communicating our plan to fellow river users, and we sincerely regret any inconvenience this may have caused.
Sumas First Nation expresses its gratitude for your understanding and support as we embark on this critical project aimed at preserving and enhancing the environment within our Traditional Territory. We honour, conserve and protect salmon and non-salmon species. The intent is to restore and enhance Indigenous fisheries management and cultural practices within our traditional territory.
“S’ólh Téméxw te íkw’élò. Xólhmet temekw’ stám ít kwelát. This is our land we must look after everything that belongs to us. This work not only helps us connect as an Indigenous community, but as well with our neighbouring communities and stakeholders.
Sumas First Nation (Semá:th) is a robust Indigenous Community located near Abbotsford, BC. Semá:th has approximately 350 members and currently resides on a reserve land base of approximately 600 acres.
Let’s Emo:t – One Heart, One Mind
Media Contact:
Ida Dutt
Communications Officer
media@sumasfirstnation.com
604-996-8523