First Nations Database Project | |
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Year
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 |
2009 |
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Proponent
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A-TLEGAY FISHERIES SOCIETY (08 D 67) |
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Project type
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Fisheries |
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FSWP funding source
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Living Rivers |
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Grant amount
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$24,000 |
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Total project value
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$26,400 |
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ID number
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09-LR95-F |
Location:
Basin wide
Project Summary
Overview
Information gaps regarding returning salmon abundance and condition in First Nation fisheries in terminal areas may result in poor estimates of spawner abundance and a reduced ability to forecast brood cycle returns, which may in turn lead to fishery management errors that are often most detrimental to the terminal FN fisheries themselves. FN catch monitoring and reporting is therefore a vital component in ensuring accurate fish stock assessments and sustainable FSC fisheries.
The FSC Catch Database provides First Nations with a simple software tool for managing FSC fisheries data associated with communal fisheries licences. The database provides the FN with fisheries management functions including catch reporting, staff and fisher data management, photo ID, permit generation, communal fish distribution tracking. Fisheries data collected by monitors, or submitted by fishers, are entered into the database according to licence. Catch and effort data are summarized using built-in reports for internal use, and exported on a routine basis to DFO in a standardized digital format compatible with regional catch databases.
Candidate First Nations are selected for database installation, training and technical support. The selection process is coordinated with DFO to optimize the allocation of resources in conjunction with DFO/PICFI programs in the area.
Objectives
1. Present and/or demonstrate the FSC catch database at key FN fisheries offices, and relevant federal and/or provincial fisheries agencies in the Fraser watershed. Use online meeting technology where feasible.
2. Identify priority list of candidate FN fisheries organizations for database setup, in consultation with fisheries agencies, AFS managers, tribal councils, etc.
3. Customize and install FSC catch database at selected FN fisheries offices prior to 2009 fishing season. Assist with initial population of database with member data during installation phase.
4. Train FN fisheries crew on the use of the FSC catch database, and provide technical support as needed. Use online meeting software wherever feasible to keep travel costs down.
5. Coordinate with PICFI program FN Data Management Advisor (DMA) to facilitate ongoing technical support.
Methods
1. Initial Survey: An initial demonstration/survey is required to identify FN organizations in the Lower Fraser watershed suitable for database implementation (completed for the Upper Fraser in 2008). This survey would be based on telephone interviews or meetings with FN fisheries organizations, tribal councils, and DFO Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy (AFS) managers knowledgeable with DFO data requirements, as well as FN data needs and existing technical and personnel capacity.
2. Selection Process: After suitable FN fisheries organizations have been identified, prioritization may be required to match installation efforts with budgetary allowances. To be eligible, FN fisheries organizations must have a catch monitoring field program either in place or in development, and its fisheries office must have PC-compatible computer hardware and MS-Access software, as well as a designated data administrator to manage the data. Selected FN fisheries organizations will share a commitment to cooperate with DFO regarding data exchange.
3. User Requirements: A survey of system requirements for selected FN organizations is then necessary to tailor the existing FSC Catch Database to the particular needs of each organization. Data standards, format, and frequency of transmission to local DFO authorities may also vary regionally, and need to be identified. The User Requirements are incorporated into FN-specific versions of the database.
4. Database Installations. Program installation at participating FN fisheries offices includes on-site training and technical support for FN fishery managers/staff to be self-reliant with program. Assistance would be provided for initial data loading (e.g., FN membership).
5. Database Training and Support. Ongoing training and technical support would be provided by AŐTlegay via online meetings (using GoToMeeting software) and/or remote access software, until FN fisheries crew are self-reliant, or until PICFI DMA can assume support role.
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It’s really great to see grants go for something that is needed. Plus, look at the value for the project here, the grant almost covers 100%. Creating projects like this will really provide vital information that can be stored in databases and used for other projects down the road.
Flag as inappropriate?I agree with Ryan. It’s nice to see grants being actually used for what they were given. This project is intriguing and I’ll be interested to see some data down the road once it’s complete.
Flag as inappropriate?Nicely said Ryan! Projects are sometimes criticized for many reasons and I’m sure this one was also, but in the end this information will be key for several issues.
Flag as inappropriate?Hit and trial works in every sphere of life.
Flag as inappropriate?Until you try you can never be sure about how it will go.