British Columbia ’s Conservation Officer Service (COS) joined the Family Fishing Society of BC and other partner organizations for the Province of British Columbia’s Family Fishing Weekend, June 15-17, 2007. The three-day event allowed all Canadians to fish without a basic freshwater license in most BC lakes and streams. Community fishing events were held in 40 communities, where new and beginner anglers were able to learn the “How To’s” of fishing, conservation ethics, and water safety in a fun and safe environment. This year, as in years past, Conservation Officers throughout the Province provided support, and in some cases, helped organize activities and events. For example, Officers demonstrated skills such as fly tying, best management and conservation practices, and proper catch and release methods along with administering youth fishing derbies. The various events also provided an opportunity to engage the public and distribute information and promotional materials on the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) Program. Participants in BC’s Family Fishing Weekend represent core stakeholder groups with whom the COS most often works. While the Province of British Columbia is instrumental in providing the impetus and funding for the Weekend, all of the events and activities are coordinated at the local level and involve sponsorship and volunteer time from a variety of private businesses and local organizations. It is public/private partnerships like the Family Fishing Weekend that demonstrate the effectiveness and success of shared stewardship initiatives. Recreational fishing injects more than $ 1.2 billion annually into the Province’s economy. In recognition of this fact, the government of British Columbia allocated $265,000 in June 2007 to sustain and invigorate sport fishing throughout the province. The goal is to increase participation by 30 percent over the next decade. The nonprofit Family Fishing Society of BC’s mandate is to expand participation in sport fishing. By providing lessons and tips to those who are still learning the sport of fishing through events like the Family Fishing Weekend, the Society aims to provide ideal opportunities for families and friends to get together and enjoy just one of British Columbia’s many outdoor activities. If you would like to assist or participate in next year’s Family Fishing Weekend, view more photos of COS participation, or find out more about the program, please check the Family Fishing Society of BC website. |
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Conservation Officer Service
