Forage Fish Habitat Monitoring on Thetis Island

Forage fish, including Pacific sand lance and surf smelt, are an integral part of the marine ecosystem because of their role in energy transfer through the food web. The Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region Research Institute (MABRRI), from Vancouver Island University (VIU), is surveying beaches to identify forage fish spawning habitat along the Vancouver Island and Gulf Island coastlines.

MABRRI is interested in engaging with Thetis Island residents, demonstrating how to sample for forage fish embryos and discuss the importance of this exercise. This demonstration could lead to Thetis Island residents making an impact on future forage fish populations, as data collection can lead to policy modifications.

If you are interested in participating in an on-the-beach information session, please contact either Vicki Walker (250-246-9126) or Ann Eriksson (ThINC@thetisisland.net). A date and time will be announce in the near future.

If you have any general questions about the project, please contact MABRRI's Project Coordinator, Haley Tomlin (haley.tomlin@viu.ca).