The Lake Babine Nation (LBN) food fishery is still on hold this August, as too few salmon have returned to Babine Lake. Officials report that fewer than 300,000 fish have passed the counting fence at Nilkitkwa Lake—just half the minimum needed to begin harvesting.
The fishery allows LBN members to harvest up to 100 salmon per household, but the green light won’t be given until at least 600,000 fish are counted. While early assessments showed a strong run in the Skeena River system—nearly two million fish—the salmon are arriving later than expected.
This delay has created uncertainty for families who rely on salmon as a key source of food and tradition. Elders and urban members, who usually receive cleaned and delivered fish, are also waiting.
LBN leadership says environmental concerns, including climate change and external fishing pressure, are contributing to the issue.
The Nation is exploring all options, including inter-Nation trade, to ensure food security if the run does not improve.
For the latest updates, members can contact the LBN administration office at 250-692-4700 or email foodfish@lakebabine.com.
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