Several community-based projects are getting boosts from the Pacific Salmon Foundation. (Image Credit: Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW staff

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NANAIMO — A record amount of cash awarded is designed to improve conditions for the province’s iconic Pacific salmon, including $20,000 worth of Nanaimo-based initiatives.

According to a Pacific Salmon Foundation (PSF) news release, the non-profit agency awarded $1.93 million to 144 salmon conservation projects across the province and Yukon, which benefits stewardship groups, hatcheries, First Nations and schools.

A bulk of the Nanaimo funding, $12,500, is earmarked for multiple urban streams to improve fish habitat, while $5,000 for a pair of habitation restoration projects at north Nanaimo’s Walley Creek were also endorsed.

Walley Creek, a north Nanaimo urban stream, has undergone several salmon restoration projects in recent years, and more are coming. (Image Credit: Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

Planned restoration work on the Millstone River received a $2,500 boost.

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In Ladysmith, $20,000 is going toward restoration work at Bush and Walker creeks, to be administered by Stz’uminus First Nation.

Nearly $9,000 is supporting habitation assessment work on Parksville’s Morningstar Creek, while over $6,400 is backing the installation of signage to mark fish spawning sites in Parksville.

The PSF notes while the nearly $2 million handed out represents the highest amount issued in their 32-year history, demand is unprecedented.

“However, a $1.4M gap remains between available resources and growing need, in part fueled by the winding down of government funding streams.”

This year’s funding allocated is expected to generate $11.3 million in total conservation value through in-kind contributions and volunteer time, according to the PSF news release.

Since 1994, PSF’s Community Salmon Program has directed $33.7M to more than 3,740 salmon conservation projects across B.C. and the Yukon, mobilizing local volunteers to contribute more than 60,000 hours annually.

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by NanaimoNewsNOW staff

Mid-Island groups catch salmon restoration grants

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