CHI co-hosted HELIT TŦE SȽOṈ,ET (Let the Herring Live)

CONSERVANCY HORNBY ISLAND CO-HOSTED A HERRING FORUM WITH W̱SÁNEĆ LEADERSHIP COUNCIL, PACIFIC WILD, AND SEA SHEPHERD.

The “HELIT TŦE SȽOṈ,ET  (Let the Herring Live)” Forum was held at the W̱SÁNEĆ (Saanich) First Nation Gathering Strength Community Facility In Saanichton on November 7.

This historic event brought together representatives from First Nations, environmental and community organizations, scientists, and local government, united in their vision to protect and restore Pacific herring in the Straight of Georgia.

Over 100 people attended and heard First Nations elders describe the once abundant herring around all the southern gulf islands from Victoria to Nanaimo. They told us of the importance of herring for their diet, culture and community wellbeing. They were very clear that they want the herring fishery closed until the stocks in their territories have had a chance to rebuild.

CHI along with Pacific Wild and Sea Shepherd gave updates on what they have been doing advocating for the closure of the fishery. Our MP Gord Johns thanked CHI for the work we have done and said that he would keep the pressure on DFO in Ottawa.

We described our very successful first three HerringFests and our plans for HerringFest 4 March 5-8, 2020 with Rachelle Chinnery’s HIAC 50/50 art opening, reading and music event; film night and other surprises on Friday March 6, and our Saturday Herring School with three very interesting speakers; and boat trips throughout the festival. All forum attendees were invited.

CHI was represented at the Forum by board members Robin Walford, Margot Bushnell, David Wiseman and Grant Scott along with KT Auleta who is helping us with video and social media, and Cath Gray who very capably helped organize the event. 

Change is coming to the herring fishery and we’ll be on the news between now and March so stay tuned!

words: Grant Scott + photos: KT Auleta