Lake Babine Nation is considering a halt to recreational fishing due to a severe decline in salmon returns this year.

Chief Wilf Adam reported unprecedented salmon mortality rates, with fish dying in record numbers. Lake Babine Nation had anticipated the return of over 2 million salmon, but only 640,000 have passed through the fish fence so far, Adam said.

On August 12, more than 80,000 salmon moved through the fence after a period of non-movement, he added.

High water temperatures, nearing 20 degrees Celsius, and low water levels led to a halt in salmon movement, resulting in over 1,600 deaths before reaching the fence.

Some fish were found to be severely decomposed, with "cooked" flesh and a mushy texture, Adam said,

In response, Lake Babine Nation plans to implement a drought management strategy, which includes suspending recreational fishing and other conservation measures to help the salmon reach their spawning grounds.

The Nation is collaborating with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to enforce this plan, Adam said.

To meet the community鈥檚 food needs, the Lake Babine Nation is exploring options to source coastal salmon for off-reserve members and will can some to reduce spoilage.