Canada has announced that will grant $1.5 million in funding to the University of Guelph to support research into the effects of diluted bitumen–a viscous constituent of petroleum–on adult migrating sockeye salmon. The study will focus on reproductive success and the survival of their offspring. The findings may further strengthen Canada’s oil spill prevention and response planning capacity.
Pacific salmon have complex life cycles that include migrating between freshwater and marine environments. They play an enormous cultural, economic and environmental role on the West Coast of Canada.
This project will actively engage Indigenous communities, while underscoring Canada’s commitment to protecting Pacific salmon, their habitat and the broader ecosystem, cultures, and livelihoods that depend on them.
“The Government of Canada is committed to preserving this species that struggles to thrive in the face of climate change, habitat loss, and fishing pressures,” said Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard. “I’m proud to announce this funding that will help ensure that Canada is able to leverage the latest science to conserve and restore Pacific salmon and their habitat.”
Canada’s ocean economy accounts for approximately $31.65 billion annually in GDP and employs approximately 300,000 Canadians across various industries. Since 2016, the government has dedicated $3.5 billion to the Oceans Protection Plan, making it the largest investment Canada has ever made to protect its coasts and waterways.
