Ryan Cutler observed the foamy ocean from his residence near Salmon Beach on the western coast of Vancouver Island last week, signaling the beginning of the herring spawn. Cutler, fascinated by the spectacle, described it as a remarkable time. Utilizing his drone, he captured the distinctive foamy, milky blue-green water that indicates the herring’s gathering for reproduction in the shallow coastal bays.
The herring spawn holds great significance around Vancouver Island and the South Coast, symbolizing the arrival of spring and a period for coastal First Nations to collect food. Additionally, it serves as a crucial time for marine conservationists to monitor the population of these small, oily fish, which have faced a decline due to overfishing in recent decades.
Herring, regarded as a keystone species, congregate in large groups for spawning. The females deposit eggs on kelp and eelgrass, while the males release milt, creating the milky appearance of the water. Cutler noted the noticeable signs of staging, where herring gather and prepare for spawning, in the weeks leading up to the event, accompanied by the presence of sea lions, eagles, and humpback whales.
Nick Chowdhury, president of the Island Marine Aquatic Working Group, emphasized the importance of tracking the herring spawn, particularly for coastal First Nations, marking a significant seasonal transition. The sighting of the initial spawn at Salmon Beach on Vancouver Island sparked excitement, as it provides an opportunity to assess fish stocks and witness the return of spawning to previously inactive areas.
Shirley Louie, a seasoned fisher and member of the Stz’uminus First Nation, recently delved into learning about herring, collaborating on a documentary project with the Q’ul-lhanumutsun Aquatic Resources Society (QARS). This group, representing six coast Salish First Nations, focuses on aquatic resource management, including the preparation and utilization of herring as a traditional food source.
Louie’s exploration led her to discover traditional herring cleaning and preparation methods, including smoking and frying, with guidance from family members. She also acquired knowledge about using a herring rake, a tool with nails for catching fish. Embracing this learning experience, Louie highlighted the importance of reconnecting with traditional foods and practices for cultural preservation.