The heart of the Fraser
It is known as “the heart of the Fraser.” A 90-kilometre gravel reach between Hope and Mission, this stretch of the Fraser River is one of the richest aquatic systems on Earth.
At least 30 different species of fish spawn in or migrate through this part of the lower Fraser. It supports millions of pink salmon in peak years, as well as resident populations of endangered sturgeon.
In a feature story called “Islands of the Fraser,” published the Fall 2000 issue of British Columbia Magazine, I wrote about this vital river and some of the threats to it. Productive as it is, the waterway is under extreme stress from urban growth, agriculture, resource extraction, and industrial development.
For 14 years, the Fraser has ranked high in the list of B.C.’s Most Endangered Rivers, released annually by the Outdoor Recreation Council (ORC). Now, in a new report prepared for the Pacific Fisheries Resource Conservation Council, ORC rivers chair Mark Angelo and fellow British Columbia Institute of Technology instructor Marvin Rosenau say it’s time for action.
Their report calls for proactive conservation measures such as the acquisition of key private properties, the conversion of Crown land to protected areas, improved law enforcement, and the repair of past ecological damage.
“Regardless of the negative issues outlined in this report, British Columbians should take the optimistic view that what remains of this rich ecosystem can be protected and somewhat restored,” the authors conclude.
To learn more, visit www.heartofthefraser.bcit.ca