PICI, PORTAGE INLET CUTTHROAT INITIATIVE, IS A LEADING EXAMPLE OF CITIZEN SCIENCE IN ACTION IN ON VANCOUVER ISLAND: “Partnerships have been essential to all we have accomplished through PICI and will continue to be as we progress into the future. Each partnership we have has brought something to the table, be it money, expertise or that one connection we were missing to get the job done,” stated Heather Wright, Research Coordinator, World Fisheries Trust (June 2020)
The catalyst for grass-roots action in Portage Inlet was the continuing decline in cutthroat and coho numbers in the Colquitz River and Craigflower Creek. Both systems flow into Portage Inlet and Gorge Waterway in the heart of Victoria. The geographical scope of PICI expanded to two entire watersheds in a three- step systematic process. First, raise seed money through an alliance of like- minded angling groups. Secondly, create a ‘consortium’ of non-profit, corporate and small business organizations to plan a comprehensive science- based program and secure grants. Thirdly, work with all levels of government towards a clear goal.