Port Coquitlam

Exploring Environmental Stewardship: A Visit to the Hyde Creek Salmon Hatchery

Hyde Creek's Mitch and Helen (far left and far right) hosted Hoy/Scott Watershed Society team (L–R) Robbin, Matt, Anne and Tyler.

On February 17, several members of the Hoy-Scott Watershed Society had the opportunity to visit the Hyde Creek Watershed Society's salmon hatchery in Port Coquitlam. The visit not only provided an up-close look at the facilities and operations of our neighbouring hatchery but also fostered an exchange of knowledge and ideas about salmon rearing practices and water usage.

As advocates for environmental stewardship, both organizations recognize the critical role of salmon in our local ecosystem and the need to actively contribute to their conservation and population management. This shared commitment made the visit even more meaningful as it allowed for a fruitful exchange of insights and experiences.

During the tour, members from both societies discussed the meticulous care and attention required to ensure the health and vitality of the fish. From egg incubation to the nurturing of smolt, each step in the hatchery’s operation highlighted the dedication and expertise of the staff and volunteers in preserving the salmon population.

Hyde Creek Hatchery’s use of well water shed light on innovative approaches to water conservation and efficiency, ultimately contributing to the sustainable management of the watershed.

Walk along Hyde Creek in Port Coquitlam

The visit underscored the interconnectedness of our efforts in preserving the salmon and their habitat. By coming together, sharing knowledge, and learning from each other's experiences, we strengthen our collective impact on environmental conservation.


The visit served as a reminder that, through collaboration and knowledge exchange, we can make a significant difference in the health and sustainability of our watersheds.

We extend our gratitude to the Hyde Creek Watershed Society for their warm hospitality. Our visit reaffirmed our commitment to the preservation of our natural environment and the crucial role that partnerships and collaboration play in achieving this goal.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to work closely with our neighbouring watershed societies and local communities to promote the well-being of our precious salmon and their habitats.

The beautiful second floor of Hyde Creek Hatchery has a library, covered deck, washrooms, kitchen and meeting area.

HSWS Participates in Meeting with Fisheries Minister

Zoom screen capture via MP Ron McKinnon’s Facebook page

Zoom screen capture via MP Ron McKinnon’s Facebook page

Invited and organized by Ron McKinnon, MP for Coquitlam-Port Coquitlam, the Hoy/Scott Watershed Society participated in a Zoom meeting on August 20 for a conversation on how our government can better support those who keep our waterways - and their inhabitants - thriving and healthy.

Attending the meeting was Hon. Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans, and the Canadian Coast Guard, the Mossom Creek Hatchery, Hoy /Scott Watershed Society, Hyde Creek Watershed Society, Maple Creek Streamkeepers, and Watershed Watch Salmon Society.

Attending for HSWS were directors, Anne Woosman and Kim Mayes. The meeting provided the opportunity for local hatcheries or societies to voice their concerns and share information.

Financial assistance for operations and programs at all hatcheries was inferred by the attendees.

Advice/guidelines were asked for infrastructure projects i.e. flood controls, enforcement of regulations, shorelines, and a Code of Practice for managing them.

The government’s, “Salmonid Enhancement Program (SEP) plays a key role in DFO's work to conserve and manage Pacific salmon stocks. The program's activities aim to rebuild vulnerable salmon stocks, provide harvest opportunities, work with First Nations and coastal communities in economic development, and improve fish habitat to sustain salmon populations.”

Hoy-Scott Watershed Society attends Hyde Creek Salmon Festival

Society volunteers, Malcolm, Nathen and Kyle provided information about our efforts to attendees of the Salmon Festival in Port Coquitlam

Society volunteers, Malcolm, Nathen and Kyle provided information about our efforts to attendees of the Salmon Festival in Port Coquitlam

Hoy-Scott Watershed Society volunteers participated in the annual Hyde Creek Salmon Festival once again on November 15th.   The festival is held at the Hyde Creek Community Center and provides a wonderful opportunity for the community to visit the local Hyde Creek Hatchery, view the creek itself, and learn about many aspects of the environment through the myriad of community groups that participate each year.

Left to right: Kyle, Mia, Coquitlam mayor Richard Stewart, and Dulce

Left to right: Kyle, Mia, Coquitlam mayor Richard Stewart, and Dulce

 

Thanks goes out to our Society volunteers, Dulce, Kyle, Mia, Malcolm, Nathen and Robbin who helped man our booth at the event.  See MORE photos here on our Facebook album.

Scott and Maurice from the Department of Fisheries show live coho salmon and answer questions

Scott and Maurice from the Department of Fisheries show live coho salmon and answer questions

VIDEO CLIP BELOW:

Check out the video clip of a bald eagle with the Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society