B.C. salmon could drastically decline due to extreme temperature events: UBC report
We’re used to seafood cooked in a pan or barbecue, but researchers say new findings show many ocean species could be heated to death in the ocean.
A new report led by researchers at the University of British Columbia shows scientists have been underestimating the effects of climate change on our oceans and the creatures that dwell within them.
"We haven't put into account these high temperature events,” said William Cheung, director of UBC’s Changing Oceans Research Unit.
The report shows extreme heat events, such as the B.C. “heat dome” in June have not been properly considered.
Scientist now say that with the normal rate of climate change and more frequent extreme heat events, ocean species could face a grim future.
According to the Changing Oceans Research Unit, 77 per cent of all global sea life could decline in the coming decades.
It also found that half of B.C.’s iconic salmon species could be wiped out by 2050.
"Writing has been on the wall now for many years of the lowered levels in our fish-bearing streams and increased temperatures,” said Richard McBride, general manager of the Finest At Sea seafood market in Victoria.
Seafood producers say they have always faced an uphill battle with government restrictions and shrinking catch allotments, and when adding a worsening climate future, their lives become even more difficult.
"Worse and worse every year,” said McBride. “It's getting bad.”
Researchers say their findings will significantly impact the fishing industry, coastal First Nations and communities which rely on the sea.
While the report focused on the future impacts of sea life, an island industry may already be playing the role of canary in the coal mine.
B.C’s Shellfish Growers Association says June’s “heat dome” caused a massive die-off on coastal farms.
According to the organization based in Courtenay, B.C., most producers suffered between 30 to 70 per cent mortality after the blazing sun cooked shorelines.
The heat wave also coincided with a low tide.
"Unfortunately, we understand that we can expect these events to happen more frequently and be more intense,” said Jim Russell with the Shellfish Growers Association. “Not good news for shellfish.”
UBC researchers say if we want to avoid their shocking, and not so distant predictions, two things need to happen.
Government must be able to implement local and up-to-the-hour fishing restrictions to save at risk species. And, the entire planet needs to focus on reducing climate change impacts, which are helping to heat oceans.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
B.C. tenants evicted for landlord's use after refusing large rent increase to take over neighbouring suite
Ashley Dickey and her mother rented part of the same Coquitlam duplex in three different decades under three different landlords.
MPP Sarah Jama asked to leave Ontario legislature for wearing keffiyeh
MPP Sarah Jama was asked to leave the Legislative Assembly of Ontario by House Speaker Ted Arnott on Thursday for wearing a keffiyeh, a garment which has been banned at Queen’s Park.
Mountain guide dies after falling into a crevasse in Banff National Park
A man who fell into a crevasse while leading a backcountry ski group deep in the Canadian Rockies has died.
Expert warns of food consumption habits amid rising prices
A new survey by Dalhousie University's Agri-Food Analytics Lab asked Canadians about their food consumption habits amid rising prices.
Here's why provinces aren't following Saskatchewan's lead on the carbon tax home heating fight
After Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the federal government would still send Canada Carbon Rebate cheques to Saskatchewan residents, despite Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe's decision to stop collecting the carbon tax on natural gas or home heating, questions were raised about whether other provinces would follow suit. CTV News reached out across the country and here's what we found out.
Montreal actress calls Weinstein ruling 'discouraging' but not surprising
A Montreal actress, who has previously detailed incidents she had with disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, says a New York Court of Appeals decision overturning his 2020 rape conviction is 'discouraging' but not surprising.
Charlie Woods, son of Tiger, shoots 81 in U.S. Open qualifier
Charlie Woods failed to advance in a U.S. Open local qualifying event Thursday, shooting a 9-over 81 at Legacy Golf & Tennis Club.
Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye make it four NFL drafts with quarterbacks going 1-3
Caleb Williams is heading to the Windy City, aiming to become the franchise quarterback Chicago has sought for decades.
Improve balance and build core strength with this exercise
When it comes to cardiovascular fitness, you may tend to focus on activities that move you forward, such as walking, running and cycling.