Evaluating the Predictors of the Pacific Herring (Clupea pallasi) Spawn Population in False Creek in 2023

False Creek is an inlet located south of Downtown Vancouver that serves as a crucial spawning ground for Pacific Herring (Clupea pallasii). These fish are a vital component of the Salish Sea’s aquatic food web, as they are relied upon by seals, seabirds, and other species. Historically, the herring have spawned in False Creek’s eelgrass and macroalgae. However, False Creek has undergone significant changes from tidal flats to marinas and housing. As a result, there are no longer any natural spawning grounds for the herring in False Creek. This has led to egg deposits on toxic creosote wood pilings at the wharf. To address this issue, Squamish Streamkeepers have used non-toxic plastic around the wood pilings and deployed net panels to mimic spawning habitat. Since 2019, a UBC student team has been working with CityStudio and the City of Vancouver to support Squamish Streamkeepers’ efforts. The primary objective of this project is to closely monitor the 2023 herring spawn and assess how water abiotic conditions predict a spawn event at Fisherman’s Wharf.Science, Faculty ofEarth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, Department ofUnreviewedUndergraduat