Al cleaning a filter during his morning feed duties in the Capilano trough room at Hoy Creek Hatchery.
The Hoy/Scott Watershed Society is proud to recognize Al D. as our Volunteer of the Month for his dedication and ongoing commitment to the Hoy Creek Hatchery.
Al joined our volunteer team in 2022, bringing with him a strong interest in environmental protection and a background in environmental science. After retiring, he was looking for a meaningful way to reconnect with those early passions while giving back to his community.
“The Hoy Creek Hatchery opportunity seemed perfectly suited to my desire to revisit some of my early adulthood interests,” Al shares. “My degree is related to environmental science.”
Since joining the Society, Al has taken on one of the hatchery’s most important behind-the-scenes responsibilities: Daily Feeder.
While much of his work happens out of public view, the daily feeder role is absolutely vital to the successful operation of the Hoy Creek Hatchery. This position ensures that juvenile salmon are fed consistently, monitored closely, and cared for every single day. It is a role that requires reliability, attention to detail, and a deep respect for the life cycle of salmon.
In addition to his work at Hoy Creek, Al also volunteers at ƛ̓éxətəm Regional Park (Colony Farm), where he helps remove invasive plant species and support the health of local ecosystems.
For Al, volunteering brings both purpose and fulfillment.
“I would advise those thinking of volunteering to just do it! There is a tremendous joy and satisfaction in helping maintain our environment even in a small manner. It all adds up,” he says. “I particularly enjoy being part of maintaining our salmon stock which is so crucial for our ecosystem.”
Al’s commitment reminds us that conservation work depends not only on big public events, but also on the steady, dedicated efforts of volunteers who quietly ensure that essential daily tasks are completed.
We thank Al for his dependable service, positive spirit, and dedication to protecting Hoy Creek and its salmon. His work truly makes a difference — one feeding at a time.