Conservation in action

The white sturgeon, a relic from the age of dinosaurs, can grow more than six meters long, weigh over 600 kilograms and can live for more than 150 years. Unfortunately its population, especially in the lower Fraser River, has significantly declined.

The Fraser River Sturgeon Conservation Society (FRSCS) is dedicated to the preservation and recovery of these ancient creatures. Its mission is to ensure a wild, healthy and self-sustaining population of white sturgeon throughout the Fraser River watershed.

FortisBC’s Tilbury LNG team recently participated in FRSCS's catch and release monitoring program. This involves ethical fishing practices where sturgeon are captured, checked for previous tagging, recorded and released. Since 2000, more than 90,000 tags have been deployed, providing essential data on sturgeon behavior, habitat preferences, population dynamics and migration patterns. During the recent outing, the FortisBC team recorded 18 sturgeon, nine of which were unmarked and received new tags.

Sarah Schreier, executive director of FRSCS says, “We’re grateful for the opportunity to partner with FortisBC to make a difference for Fraser River white sturgeon and help to ensure that sturgeon survive for generations to come."

The majority of tags deployed throughout the years are thanks to the 60 volunteers, including professional sport fishers and guides, recreational anglers and members of diverse communities including First Nations, federal and provincial government, biologists, scientists and ecologists. Their dedication has led to one of the best baseline population models for a freshwater species in the world.

These enigmatic creatures continue to unveil surprises, underscoring the need for ongoing research. And despite challenges like dwindling food sources, predation and poaching, the FRSCS continues to work tirelessly to protect the white sturgeon.

Read the full article here .