First Nations tap into fish enhancement fund

Page 2

First Nations in British Columbia made up 41 per cent of this year's project applications to the Community Salmonid Enhancement and Restoration Fund and got 39 per cent of available funding, said CSERF manager John Willow.

A total of $943,398 was distributed to 29 projects that would strengthen fish species in the Pacific. Of these projects, 10 were awarded to First Nations for a total of $363,398.

The CSERF program focuses on human resource training and the creation of employment opportunities, said Willow. Applications to the program are accepted during a five-week period. CSERF supports community-based salmonid enhancement initiatives which promote conservation and restoration of fish habitat, strengthening stocks, and increased public awareness of fisheries resources.

The Uchuckesahjt Band Council of Port Alberni will receive $42,000 for a training project. The Gwa'Sala-Nakwaxda'xw at Port Hardy will receive $36,000 to educate and train band members in salmonid enhancement, assess the Tsulgate River for spawning and rearing habitat and enhance and restore the river based on the reported findings.

Tla-O-Qui-Aht First Nations of Tofino will receive $50,000 again to assess and restore the habitat, and do a fish inventory and survey.