TOP 10 STORIES OF 2018

One of the biggest wildlife concerns in town has been the dwindling numbers of salmon.

Perhaps one of the more overlooked phenomena is the increasingly noticeable shortage of chum salmon.

While the fish aren’t prized, as they have been deemed a little rough for the taste palettes of many people, experts say their declining population is a harbinger of an ecosystem in trouble.

The fish are crucial to the Squamish area’s food-chain, and their decomposed bodies are also considered an important ingredient to nurturing trees along the shorelines.

Chum counts were “abysmal” this year — the worst on record in years. Experts say that it’s not too late to resuscitate the salmon’s ailing numbers.

In the meantime, with the help of the District, the Squamish River Watershed Society has spearheaded an initiative to alter the Squamish Spit in a manner thought to help the salmon.

A channel will be installed in the Spit, which is believed to help young salmon access the estuary, which is thought to be key to their growth.

Prior to the Spit’s construction, salmon numbers were significantly higher. Conservationists believe that the structure funnels young salmon from the Squamish River into Howe Sound.

Previously, they’d be capable of going to the estuary, where they could mature and grow stronger before heading out to sea. The salmon’s premature exit into Howe Sound is thought to be the main reason why salmon numbers have shrunk since the Spit was built.

The effort arrives after months of talks with The Squamish Nation, the province, Fisheries and Oceans, the Squamish Terminals, the Squamish Windsports Society and the District.

Ultimately, authorities are hoping to re-align the structure to make it more salmon-friendly.

Also with respect to salmon, Squamish had a close call when it was revealed the local Fisheries and Oceans office was in danger of closing down or relocating.

A series of reports by The Chief revealed that authorities were playing with the idea of relocating the office as far as Steveston, as the office’s current lease was due to expire.

Salmon advocates were quick to point out that the office was responsible for much enforcement in the Squamish area, and the office’s absence would leave a massive blind spot in Howe Sound.

After months of outcry, MP Pamela Goldsmith-Jones announced that the office would remain in Squamish.

But salmon weren’t the only point of interest — bears still held a place in locals’ hearts.

Attractants — often unsecured garbage — remains a concern when it comes to dealing with the animals.

This year, just as it has been in years before, bears had to be killed due to garbage habituation. Conservation officers are urging people to secure their garbage and, if possible, store it inside before garbage day.

But there were some bright spots for bears this year.

One particular highlight was a rare sighting of grizzlies by the Squamish River. Conservationist John Buchanan caught the special event on camera, and after it went live online, it drew a sizable audience of local admirers.