First Nations communities in northern Vancouver Island are expressing disappointment with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) for not engaging in meaningful discussions prior to initiating commercial krill fishing in what they consider delicate coastal inlet waters.
Hereditary Chief T̕łaḵwagila David Mungo Knox of the Fort Rupert First Nation, also known as the Kwakiutl First Nation, emphasized the importance of consulting with coastal First Nations regarding fisheries management before authorizing commercial fishing activities.
Knox highlighted the need for inclusion of smaller nations without strong representation in decision-making processes, stressing that Indigenous communities possess valuable knowledge on stewardship and ecosystem maintenance that should be considered.
The commercial krill fishery began on January 5 and will run until March 31 or until set quotas are met. Designated areas for commercial fishing include Knight Inlet, Bute Inlet, and Jervis Inlet.
Krill, a small shrimp-like species, play a significant role in marine food chains. Concerns raised by Knox revolve around the bycatch of other fish species during trawling operations, particularly impacting vital species like ooligan and herring crucial for coastal First Nations.
Knox also expressed apprehension about the sustainable harvest of krill, given their pivotal role as a keystone species supporting ocean ecosystems.
DFO acknowledged managing the krill fishery through a multi-year plan spanning from 2023 to 2027, with consultation processes involving First Nations, industry stakeholders, and other relevant parties.
The department assured that the fishery is regulated using a precautionary approach, with catch limits established at less than one percent of the krill biomass to ensure sustainability. Area-based quotas, seasonal openings, and a total allowable catch of 500 tonnes are implemented for responsible management.
Gear restrictions are in place to minimize bycatch, with stringent reporting requirements for recording all bycatch by vessel operators and service providers. Commercially harvested krill finds various uses, including food consumption, bait for sport fishing, aquarium feed, and feed for aquaculture.
Dallas Smith, president of the Nanwakolas Council representing several First Nations in north Vancouver Island, echoed the call for enhanced consultation processes in fisheries management. Emphasizing the need for transparent regulations, Smith underlined the importance of safeguarding wild Pacific salmon populations that might be affected by insufficient oversight in fisheries practices.
Both Knox and Smith advocate for increased dialogue between nations to safeguard keystone species and ensure sustainable resource management. They emphasize the necessity for DFO to engage in proactive discussions with Indigenous communities before authorizing fishing activities to address concerns and promote environmental conservation.