Many British Columbians believe that the protection and restoration of fish habitats is important to both the environment and the economy. This has created a demand for certified, skilled fisheries field technicians.

The University College of the Fraser Valley, in collaboration with Malaspina University College, is offering a certificate program designed to address this province-wide need. The Fisheries Field Technician program combines classroom instruction with field work that equips participants with the skills they need to find employment helping experienced fisheries field technologists and/or fisheries biologists working throughout B.C.

"We're very pleased to offer this program again in the Fraser Valley," says Bob Bolton, a program director with UCFV Continuing Education.

"It's perfect for people wishing to gain entry-level positions that require an operational understanding of salmonid biology and fisheries field techniques, as well as field inventory and habitat restoration skills."

The full-time, five-week program begins with a review of the identification, life cycles, and habitat requirements of salmon, trout, and char common in British Columbia, and includes lessons in identification, handling specimens, collecting biological information, and inventory methods and procedures.

Field study concentrates on inventory techniques, fish habitat assessment and restoration, stream crossing assessment, and soil bio-engineering. The program also includes a mandatory WCB certification course in electrofishing.

The next course start date is March 19. For further information call 864-4667 or 792-0025, local 4667.

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