Breaking News – Port Hope Looking for Support from Ministry to Change Fishing Regulations

Pete Fisher
4 months ago
• Categories: Local

(Today’s Northumberland file photo)

Municipality of Port Hope Reinforces Commitment to Natural Resource Protection and Engages Ministry for Support for 2024 Fishing Season

The Municipality of Port Hope is steadfast in its commitment to working collaboratively with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF), the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH), local police, and the community to ensure the successful implementation of the 2024 Salmon migration and fishing season. This ongoing effort aims to protect our valuable natural resources and maintain the integrity of the Ganaraska River, a vital ecosystem within our community.

Although the Ganaraska River is a natural resource within the Municipality of Port Hope, the Municipality does not have authority over its regulation. Governance, including fishing regulations, and fishing seasons falls under the jurisdiction of the Provincial government.

In response to ongoing concerns, the Ministry has initiated public consultations on proposed fishing regulatory changes in the Ganaraska River, with the Municipality actively supporting and participating in this community engagement process. Council received a confidential stakeholder briefing on potential regulatory changes being considered by the Ministry. At that time, the Ministry also provided confidential data outlining potential ongoing risks that supports concerns that have been previously brought forward by members of the community.

Following that briefing, Council directed Mayor Hankivsky to engage with the Ministry to seek support for addressing the specific impacts Port Hope may face during the fall of 2024. This included requesting the implementation of a temporary variance order during the 2024 season. A temporary variance order is a short-term change to fishing regulations or seasons, designed to address specific and unique challenges that may arise within a particular area. This consultation is ongoing, and we are awaiting further information from the Ministry. With the salmon migration in the Ganaraska River approaching, a temporary variance may need to be implemented quickly and with little notice.

Initiatives for the 2024 Season
Whether or not a temporary variance is granted for Port Hope, the Municipality and its partners are implementing new initiatives to address community concerns and safeguard our natural resources during the 2024 salmon migration. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to environmental preservation and the enhancement of community well-being.

Ministry Enforcements: Efforts are planned to ensure education on conservation and fishing regulations and issuance of infractions where required.

Special Constables for River Patrols: Port Hope Police Services (PHPS) will deploy Special Constables for patrols with officers to ensure sufficient monitoring.

Expanded Municipal Law Enforcement: Municipal Law Enforcement staff have received specialized training on Ministry regulations and will actively monitor the downtown area and river corridor. This will include a presence on the weekends. We will strictly enforce by-law infractions, including proper disposal of garbage and fish waste as well as parking infractions.
Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) Bring Back the Salmon Initiative: OFAH will engage the angling community through the Bring Back the Salmon initiative, promoting river stewardship, monitoring riverbank cleanliness, and addressing issues during the salmon run.

Friends of the River Volunteer Group: The Municipality is establishing a group to assist in managing excessive garbage along the River, reinforcing community involvement in conservation efforts. Members of the community can register for the Friends of the River group at //porthope.ca/fishing and receive a kit to assist in the River clean up (while supplies last).

Enhanced Parking: Plans are in place to accommodate increased parking needs, including new temporary parking at 95 Mill Street.

Reporting an Issue: The Municipality’s ‘report an issue’ form has been updated to include a category specific to fishing or fish migration concerns. Residents and visitors are encouraged to report concerns promptly to ensure they are addressed in a timely manner. The form is available at porthope.ca/report-an-issue.

As in previous years, the Municipality and its partners will also continue to focus on coordinated enforcement efforts, enforcing the night fishing ban, educating the public and anglers, and improving signage and messaging through strategic communication. These key areas will remain a priority for the 2024 salmon fishing and migration season.

It is important to note that the timing of the salmon migration can vary each year due to factors such as water temperature, weather conditions, and the overall health of the salmon population. Typically, the migration begins in early fall, with mid-August to September being a common starting point. However, these dates can fluctuate year to year.

For more information on the salmon migration in Port Hope, including rules, and regulations, please stay connected with our website at porthope.ca/fishing and social media channels @municipalityofporthope

released on August 27, 2024