Volunteering

There are a number of activities at the hatchery that volunteers are able to help with throughout the year. Without the assistance of volunteers, it would be impossible to achieve many of our objectives as we do not have enough staffing to perform some of the larger tasks. Below is a description of some of the activities that volunteers can get involved with.

If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out our online Volunteer form, phone (604) 288-0511 or send an email to volunteering@seymoursalmon.com

Fish Releases:

Each spring the smolts that have been reared at the hatchery are released into the river. From there, they head to the ocean to begin the salt water phase of their life cycle. Smolts such as Pink and Chum salmon and Steelhead are transported to various locations on the river via transport tank and released.

Fish Seines:

Come and learn while you enumerate Coho, Steelhead, Cutthroat, Pinks and maybe even Chinook. We seine two major pools on the main stem of the Seymour River. Lots of people come out for this as it offers many opportunities to learn as well as see and handle adult fish.

Fish Spawning/Husbandry:

This covers all aspects of raising fish in a hatchery. Egg takes, trough cleaning, egg picking, feeding or bulk sampling just to name a few.

Fin Clipping:

As our Coho and Steelhead fry get up to around 5 grams we clip off their adipose fin so that we will know these fish originated from the hatchery when they return as adults. This is often done in the weekends so is an activity that many people can become involved in.

Hatchery Maintenance:

The buildings and hatchery site need periodic maintenance. Many volunteers lend assistance with painting, cleaning, net mending and general upkeep.

Snorkel Surveys:

We float down the river from time to time to count adult Steelhead. We put on dry suits, face masks and snorkels. This activity is demanding and requires people who are fit and confident in the water.

Public Events:

Once a year, the Seymour Salmonid Society runs a family fishing day at Rice Lake. This is always held on Fathers Day. This day requires a lot of help both in the preparation and the event itself. There are also opportunities for volunteering at other events we attend.

Fund Raising:

The Society depends on corporate and private donations to continue its education programs and daily operations. Any fund raising ideas from volunteers are welcomed.

The Seymour Salmonid Society is able to accept donations through "Canada Helps". Make a donation and get a printable tax receipt online. Help support the Seymour Salmonid Society today, you can choose the area you wish your funding to go towards: education, maintenance, habitat projects or hatchery operations.