Following DFO’s termination of our highly successful Sooke Chinook Enhancement Initiative (SCEI) in the Sooke Basin in 2025, SVIAC has been meeting with local partners and stakeholders to support meaningful salmon conservation and enhancement initiatives across the region. The projects defined below reflect our commitment to support salmon enhancement through collaboration, science, and community action.
Coded Wire Tagging Program – SVIAC has partnered with the Sidney Anglers Association to procure a coded wire tagging (CWT) device for the Cowichan River Hatchery and other small private DFO-approved hatcheries across the South Island. Tagging will improve tracking of hatchery-origin fish, support science-based management, and strengthen enhancement programs.
Supporting Upper Fraser Chinook Recovery – SVIAC is partnering with the Spruce City Wildlife Association in Prince George to help support their hatchery efforts focused on rebuilding endangered Upper Fraser 5-2 Chinook salmon stocks of concern. This is especially important, as DFO has recently terminated their support for this highly important Chinook salmon recovery program. This collaboration highlights the importance of working across regions to support vulnerable salmon populations.
Advanced Salmon Monitoring & Tracking – In partnership with Ocean Aid (a local Victoria Tech Startup company), SVIAC is exploring the implementation of a forward-scanning sonar and an AI-assisted analysis system to identify and enumerate spawning Chinook, Coho, and Chum salmon on the Sooke River. It would also track the numbers and movements of pinnipeds (seals and sea lions) that follow the migrating salmon up the Sooke River. This innovative approach would significantly improve salmon monitoring accuracy and efficiency.
Salmon Counting Fence and Fish Trap – SVIAC is partnering with the T’Sou-ke First Nation and other Sooke-area stakeholders to develop a plan to implement a salmon counting fence and fish trap on the Sooke River. This project will minimize the impact of pinnipeds on migrating salmon in the Sooke River and will assist with the annual broodstock collection for the Jack Brooks hatchery. It will also provide better data on returning salmon, helping improve fisheries management, conservation planning, and stock assessment.
Coho Habitat Restoration – SVIAC is working with local stakeholders on plans for the remediation and restoration work for Coho salmon habitat on Monnington Creek, a tributary of the Demamial Creek / Sooke River system. This work will focus on improving spawning and rearing conditions to help strengthen local Coho populations.
Expanding Mass Marking for Chinook and Coho – SVIAC is also working with local hatcheries to coordinate expanded marking of Chinook and Coho salmon. Our efforts commenced in fall 2025 in collaboration with Goldstream Hatchery. Mass marking improves fishery management, monitoring, and selective fishing opportunities that support conservation goals.
Working Together with our Communities
These projects highlight the importance of collaboration among community organizations, First Nations, anglers, scientists, and local partners. By combining restoration, monitoring, hatchery enhancement, and modern technology, we are building practical solutions that support healthier salmon populations and sustainable fisheries for future generations.
SVIAC will continue to update members as these initiatives move forward. If you are interested in volunteering, supporting these projects, or learning more about our conservation work, we encourage you to get involved.