We respectfully acknowledge that the Tsolum Watershed that we cherish and protect flows through
the unceded traditional territory of the K'omoks First Nation, the traditional keepers of this place.
the unceded traditional territory of the K'omoks First Nation, the traditional keepers of this place.
Update on invasive pumpkinseed fish in Wildwood Marsh
In June 2022 volunteers discovered Lepomis gibosis (Pumpkinseed) fish in Wildwood Marsh as well as lower down in Smit Creek which is a tributary to the lower Tsolum River. This is a non native aquarium/pond fish that either escaped or was liberated by a pet owner. We hosted a trap building workshop in the fall of 2022 to provide local Wildwood Marsh residents with traps. We would like to have another session in spring 2023. If you live in the Burns Road area and would like to help us with minnow trapping efforts to reduce the population of these invasive species, contact us at tsolumriver@shaw.ca
In May 2023 we constructed an instream fence in Smit Creek below Wildwood Marsh to intercept any pumpkinseed fish leaving the marsh. We have so far captured over 900 fish in one week.
Thanks to Pacific Salmon Foundation for providing funding to help with the pumpkinseed removal project.
Why are these fish a problem?
Any non native fish species in an ecosystem has the potential to eat other native fish or native fishes food, displace fish out of their habitat and out-compete the fish that are normally in the area. There is also nothing preventing them from migrating down into the Tsolum and then into other rivers in the Comox Valley.
These fish may also impact amphibian populations which are already vulnerable.
Please do not release any of your pets into the wild!
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We are looking for a Summer Student
The Tsolum River Restoration Society is hiring a summer student through the Canada Summer Jobs program.
You must be under 30 and available for 9 weeks from mid-June to mid-August for 30 hours/week. The ideal candidate will be a post- secondary student with a focus on biology, amphibians, wetlands and public education.
We are looking for someone who can work independently, is physically fit and able to communicate well with the public. Someone familiar with the ecosystems of the Comox Valley and the Tsolum River is preferred.
Please send your cover letter and resume to tsolumriver@shaw.ca by May 26, 2023.