BCWS is calling out to volunteers to assist in the annual Birkdale Farm restoration project – year 3 already!
Counting fish
What: Volunteers are asked to assist with removing fish (defishing) from a section of Brooklyn Creek ahead of the proposed instream construction. This includes setting up nets in the stream, setting and checking minnow traps, releasing fry beyond the proposed project footprint, and recording catch numbers. No need to register, just show up at 9 am as listed below.
When: The defishing will occur NEXT WEEK, from Monday Aug 26 to Aug 30. Volunteers are asked to meet at the driveway to Birkdale Farm (1836 Guthrie Rd, Comox) at 9 am each day. Please be on time to minimize disruption to the working farm. Each day is expected to run from 9am to 10:30 am, depending on the amount of fish encountered.
How: Volunteers are to park on the road and then walk down to the creek as a group (200m walk, it can be mucky). Mikala from Current Environmental will lead the defishing effort and provide a training session on Monday Aug 26, where volunteers are to then lead the effort for the rest of the week. Traps will be removed on Friday.
Who: No experience required, though it would be helpful to attend for the Monday training session or have experience from previous years at Birkdale if you intend to join for other days in the week, as Mikala may not be present later in the week. Defishing is generally low impact on the body but involves walking on uneven ground and bending over. Gum boots, eye protection, gloves and long sleeves are a good idea but not required.
Note, there is an opportunity for 1 or 2 volunteers to assist with the instream construction work from Sept 3 – 13. Volunteers should be mobile and fit, as this can be strenuous at times and includes lifting up to 50 lbs, shoveling, and climbing over fences. Volunteers can attend any of the days, as their schedule allows. Anyone interested should contact Mikala in advance at 613-532-7020 or , or talk with her on Monday the 26th at the training session.
Riparian planting will take place October 8-10; a reminder for this will be sent out closer to the date.
Come. learn and help in defishing. Thank you for your help!