First Nations Fight Feds Over Decision to Open Herring-Roe Fisheries

herring roe on seaweedThree coastal B.C. First Nations are once again fighting the federal government’s decision to open herring roe fisheries in their areas, arguing fish stocks have not recovered enough to permit commercial fishing.

It’s the second year in a row the Nuu-chah-nulth, Heiltsuk and Haida have voiced their opposition to commercial fishing of spawning herring and roe collected on kelp.

“It’s unfortunate that we have this again — the fight with the department and the fight with industry,” said Dr. Don Hall, fisheries program manager for the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council.

Photo: ‘Herring Roe‘ by Greg Schechter under the license CC by 2.0

Become a supporter of independent media today!

We can’t do it without you. When you support independent reporting, every donation makes a big difference. We’re honoured to accept all contributions, and we use them wisely. Our supporters fund untold stories, new writers, wider distribution of information, and bonus copies to colleges and libraries. Donate $50 or more, and we will publicly thank you in our magazine. Regardless of the amount, we always thank you from the bottom of our hearts.