Growing up near the Coquitlam River in British Columbia, I have spent countless hours fishing in its waters and appreciating its natural beauty. However, over the years, I have witnessed a troubling decline in the number of fish, a sentiment shared by many in our community. This decline can be traced back to the construction of the Coquitlam River Dam in 1913, which has impeded the natural migration of fish, disrupting their lifecycle and impacting the biodiversity of our ecosystem.

A fish ladder presents a viable and urgent solution to this problem. Fish ladders are structures that help fish navigate around barriers like dams, facilitating their natural migration routes. This not only aids in increasing fish populations, but also ensures a healthier river ecosystem, benefiting both wildlife and local communities who rely on it for recreation and sustenance.

It’s not just about preserving tradition and recreational fishing; it's about ecological responsibility and restoring the balance to our river. Research from institutions like the Pacific Salmon Foundation emphasizes how fish ladders can rejuvenate fish populations. There are successful examples along the Fraser River, where the implementation of fish ladders has led to noticeable increases in fish numbers.

We urge BC Hydro, the Provincial Government, and other relevant authorities to allocate resources and expertise to design and construct a fish ladder for the Coquitlam River Dam. The goal is clear: to save our local fish populations, protect our river systems, and maintain our rich heritage for future generations.

Please join me in advocating for a sustainable and resilient solution for the Coquitlam River. Sign this petition to lend your voice to our cause, demonstrating to decision-makers that this is an issue that matters deeply to us all.