Well it has been 100+ Years since Coho were seen above the Coquitlam Dam and what a sight to see, participate in, and witness!
On October 22nd and 29th, participating PCDHFC members Doug Flannagan, Dave Belgrove, Marek Syrzycki and Brian Simonson witnessed the release of 33 Coho adult broodstock into Cedar Creek, in the Coquitlam watershed. In early summer 2021, 25,000 clipped fry will be released into Cedar Creek completing year one of a five year program.
This event stems from years of discussion, meetings, and momentous effort from all interested parties, including PCDHFC, Kwikwetlem First Nations, DFO, BC Hydro, Metro Vancouver, and Cities of Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam. Our own lifetime member Norm Fletcher played a vital role leading up to the historic day, as part of the “founding fathers group” laying the foundation for this day over the decades. Norm deserves special mention and Thank You for his foresight and persistence.
Historically, before BC’s oldest dam was built, the Coquitlam River was home to many fish species including Coho. The Cedar Creek area is of cultural significance to First Nations,
a special site where Kwikwetlem and other coastal First Nations travelled to and visited, as a major gathering place.
Thank you to ALL PCDHFC members who have participated in rebuilding the Coho fish stocks since 1980. Your past and current efforts are now making 100+ year history, playing an important part in the first and culturally significant placement of Coho Above the Dam.
Congratulations!