Citizen Science Is Helping Restore Herring Populations In B.C.'S Howe Sound | Cbc News

Amidst the cold rain of April, a dedicated team sets off on a unique mission in Howe Sound, just north of Vancouver. Led by Courtney Smaha, project director for the Átl'ḵa7tsem/Howe Sound Marine Stewardship Initiative, they embark on a citizen science project unlike any other—tracking the return of herring to these waters and witnessing the remarkable signs of life they bring. As the herring (known as Slhawt' in Squamish) return from the Pacific Ocean in February to spawn, their presence becomes a beacon of hope. Courtney Smaha believes that the arrival of herring signifies the arrival of spring and brings essential nutrients to the area. This, in turn, attracts other marine creatures, including majestic orcas. The herring's presence becomes a vital indicator of the overall ecological health of the region. The Howe Sound was not always a thriving ecosystem. It suffered from the toxic waste of industries like the now-closed Britannia copper mine, which polluted the waters and devastated marine life. However, the citizen scientists aboard the boat are determined to restore and protect this fragile environment. Despite lacking formal scientific backgrounds, they are paid by the Marine Stewardship Initiative to collect crucial data on herring spawn numbers and conditions. Matthew Van Oostdam, a school teacher and passionate participant in the herring hunt, knows the importance of meticulous documentation. Armed with cameras, he captures every detail, no matter how seemingly insignificant. His motto is simple: "Take photos and videos of everything because someday it will be important." Another essential clue in the hunt for herring is the presence of seagulls, signaling the fish's proximity. To gain further insight into herring populations, Jonathan Williams, a member of the Squamish First Nation, dons a wetsuit, plunges underwater with his camera, and witnesses a mesmerizing spectacle. Sea lions approach, causing the herring to gather in a tightly clustered ball, making the water appear to boil. Williams finds himself both exhilarated and intimidated by the sea lions' presence. It's a thrilling experience that deepens his appreciation for the cultural significance of herring to the Squamish people. The connection between the Squamish and herring runs deep. In an effort to revive lost cultural practices, Squamish elders suggested suspending hemlock branches into the water. Within days, the branches became adorned with glistening herring eggs, a traditional food source for the Squamish people. This initiative not only revives cultural ties but also establishes a baseline for herring populations and raises awareness of their ecological importance. Despite signs of a herring revival in Howe Sound, challenges remain. Climate change has led to ocean acidification and warming, posing threats to the delicate balance of this ecosystem. While it is too early to determine if herring populations have fully recovered, this initiative serves as a reminder of the fish's vital role in the larger ecosystem. As herring return, other sea creatures follow suit, including sea lions, orcas, lingcod, and anchovy. To spread awareness at an early age, Matthew Van Oostdam introduces Harriet the Herring, a character in his classroom teachings. Harriet writes letters to the children, sharing stories about the wonders they witness in Howe Sound. This approach instills a sense of stewardship and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all life in the sound. Ultimately, the work carried out by this dedicated team serves a larger purpose. It provides valuable knowledge that can inform decisions about the future of Howe Sound. Whether it's opposing the construction of a liquid natural gas plant or protecting vital spawning sites, the data collected by these citizen scientists will shape the fight to preserve the herring's habitat for generations to come.