Ryan Cutler observed the foamy ocean from his residence near Salmon Beach on the western coast of Vancouver Island recently, signaling the herring spawn. Cutler described this event as a spectacular time to witness. Using his drone, he captured the distinctive foamy, milky blue-green waters that indicate the herring gathering for reproduction in the coastal bays.
The herring spawn holds great significance for Vancouver Island and the South Coast, symbolizing spring and a time for food gathering for coastal First Nations. Additionally, it serves as a crucial period for marine conservationists to monitor the declining herring population due to past overfishing.
Herring, a pivotal species, assemble in large groups to reproduce. Females lay eggs on kelp and eelgrass, while males release milt, giving the water a milky appearance. Cutler mentioned observing signs of staging, where herring gather to spawn, leading up to the event, accompanied by sea lions, eagles, and humpback whales.
Nick Chowdhury, the president of the Island Marine Aquatic Working Group, emphasized the spawn’s importance for coastal First Nations, marking a shift in seasons and offering a time for food gathering. Salmon Beach was among the initial locations where the herring spawn was spotted this year, indicating a resurgence in certain areas after a period of absence.
Chowdhury highlighted the value of tracking the spawn through their Facebook page to assess fish stocks and the impact of conservation efforts. Shirley Louie, a member of the Stz’uminus First Nation, shared her experience learning about herring and traditional food practices, emphasizing the importance of preserving these cultural traditions.
