Hoy/Scott Watershed Society conducted our annual rearing pond salvage on September 17.
The Coho smolts were released into Hoy Creek in the spring, and once the pond is drained, there are always discoveries waiting in the sediment and shallow water. The pond provides habitat for a variety of invertebrates and aquatic life, including crayfish, stoneflies and lamprey.
During this year’s salvage, we found crayfish, juvenile lamprey and a few stray Coho fry. All were carefully returned to the stream.
A big thank you to the City of Coquitlam for coordinating this extensive effort and for removing the boards to allow the pond to be drained. And, of course, thank you to our dedicated volunteers who helped with the salvage.
Following the salvage, the City removed the accumulated mud and sediment. The pond was then pressure washed by the Society and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), the floorboards were returned, and creek water was reintroduced.
Later this month, the rearing pond will once again become home to our next Coho brood, which will be transferred from the hatchery to the pond where they will grow until their release in May 2027.
Another important piece of the salmon life cycle at Hoy Creek — and another great example of the work that happens behind the scenes to support our local salmon population.
