Send off the salmon.
If you're fishing for excitement at the riverbank, imagine the spectacle of 2,000 fish fry getting discharged into the Nechako River like the opening bell at the Kentucky Derby.
The Spruce City Wildlife Association is holding its second annual salmon send-off Sunday at the Cottonwood Island Boat Launch, rain or shine.
These 2,000 little fish will commence their journey to the ocean with a supportive little push from Prince George residents. All are welcome to come see the sight and share in the great release.
After this school of chinook is safely off on the epic field trip to the ocean, an open house will take place at the Spruce City Wildlife Association's headquarters (1384 River Rd.) alongside the release-point. Tour the log building with the attached hatchery facility, enjoy the views and the expansive lawns leading down to the water's edge. The SCWA promises some fun and information for those who attend.
Chinook are some of the most delicate populations of salmon in the B.C. oceanic ecosystem.
They are a staple food source for large mammals like killer whales and have an ancient role in the diet and culture of First Nations. Authorities like the Tilhqot'in National Government and the Goverment of Canada have imposed significant restrictions on fishing for this particular species of salmon, and the SCWA event is another step to improve their fish fortunes.
The second annual Salmon Sendoff and SCWA open house happens from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
