A balance between the environment and commercial pursuits is possible, says one of those presenters at this fall’s speaker series hosted by the Buck Creek Hatchery and Nature Centre.
Speaking Nov. 5, Marvin Strimbold, whose family has farmed and logged for generations in the region, also said achieving a balance requires continuous effort and reaching out to build relationships.
He keyed on the habitat health of the Bulkey River and Maxan Creek in particular, emphasizing projects to protect and encourage fish populations.
Strimbold’s list include developing riparian zones of vegetation along rivers and creeks to improve water quality, provide erosion control and maintain cool and clean water for fish populations/ .
Wildfire management is also necessary to control wildfires and thus reducing their impact on water systems and landscapes.
Turning to agriculture, Strimbold said healthy soil practices such as cover crops and buffer zones do their part in reducing runoff into water bodies.
While projects are necessary, monitoring of their ongoing effects is also vital, he added.
The use of beaver deceivers and or fish ladders can also do their part in bolstering habitat needs.
Forestry can also exist along with river and stream systems by establishing buffer zones and selectively logging specific areas.
Riparian areas can also be protected by clearing underbrush with Strimbold citing the use of livestock in achieving that task.
And a healthy forest and a healthy riparian zone can limit the spread of wildfire.
Strimbold’s family history in the region dates back to the end of the 19th century taking in locations around Decker Lake to a dairy in the Terrace area involving logging and ranching.
His emphasis on a continuous effort to protect the environment while allowing commercial activities to thrive rests with financial support for research, monitoring, projects and trials.
It’s also important that data be shared among landowners, environmental groups an government agencies.
Strimbold is one of five speakers taking part in the Salmon Smart speaker series, an initiative supported by the Pacific Salmon Foundation. Glenda Ferris has already spoken on living responsibly and Ian Sharpe has spoken on the future of salmon in the Morice watershed.
A Rocha conservation science expert Marjorie Lieuwen speaks on Nov. 19 and on Nov. 26, Bulkley River Lodge guide and manager Missy Moure presents a local perspective on steelhead in the Morice/Bulkley watersheds. Each speaks at 7 p.m. at the hatchery located at 3125 Hwy16.
