FSC OVERVIEW

Fraser First Nations perspectives on managing Fraser sockeye differ from the headwaters to the estuaries and out in the approach areas of Vancouver Island. Many Fraser First Nations in the mid and upper watersheds have access to only one or two stocks of sockeye and that is only if all the stars align. For these First Nations, it is the return of sockeye to their territory that determines their fishing success, not the total return of sockeye to the Fraser River. The current aggregate based management system simply does not function, and an overall paradigm shift is required to turn this approach around. The needs of Fraser First Nations are best served by a balanced plan that recognizes the current imbalance and begins to move the dial toward a more sustainable and equitable approach. Finally, any rebuilding plan that increases total catch of Fraser sockeye by increasing production from a few strong stocks, e.g., Tsilhquot’in or Adams Lake, while overharvesting the weaker stocks, will continue to leave many First Nations without access. For sockeye 3 out of 4 years are currently exclusive First Nations FSC access only, including management, i.e. sharing. There are no other sectors allowed, only First Nations. The current management approach has consistently resulted in over fishing of stocks of concern to the most marginalized nations of the Fraser and approach

AT A GLANCE

STATUS OF THE FRASER SOCKEYE
Presently Fraser sockeye salmon are experiencing an unprecedented decline due to various factors including but not limited to the following:

1. Declining spawner abundance especially after the Big Bar Slide;
2. Reduced freshwater and marine survival;
3. Freshwater habitat pressure;
4. By catch mortalities;
5. General apathy;
6. Competing governmental interests;
7. Predation, and;
8. Climate change effects

 

OBJECTIVE, ROLES & TASKS

Examine and analyze how to best develop a framework for a Nation-to-Nation Sockeye sharing plan to advance a consolidated and unified approach to sockeye conservation management.

Prepare a plan for investigating the interest and capacity of Fraser River and Marine Approach First Nations commitment and ability to participate in the development of a framework for a sockeye sharing plan amongst each other.

Prepare a plan for investigating how the diversity and behavior of Fraser sockeye salmon plays a role in the development of a Sockeye sharing plan.

 

RESOURCES

Food Social Ceremonial Fisheries & Sharing

Inter-Tribal Fishing Treaty A treaty of mutual respect and understanding

First Nation Food Social & Ceremonial (FSC) Fisheries Sharing Framework

FSC Sharing Framework Questionnaire April 2024