Modern Science

MODERN SCIENCE

Coastal Nations on the North and Central Coast, and Haida Gwaii are bringing together ancient knowledge with modern science to manage our ocean resources and traditional waters.

Rockfish Conservation

Fifty years ago, Kitasoo/Xai’Xais Nation member Charlie Mason would jump in his boat and travel only a short distance to catch enough rockfish for a couple of his meals. Today he shares a widespread concern that increased recreational and commercial fishing over the last five decades has put too much pressure on rockfish in the region.

In response, the Central Coast Indigenous Resource Alliance (CCIRA) launched a rockfish research project in 2013. Bringing together science and traditional knowledge, the study explores the state of rockfish on the Central Coast and makes connections between its conservation and Indigenous rights.

The study was led by CCIRA science staff guided by the Traditional Knowledge of elder fishers. Their input was essential for identifying study sites and providing historical context. Many community members provided fieldwork support.

Read the study results and learn more about the CCIRA Rockfish Research project.