Good morning! 

Fishermen in the Westshore are concerned about a decision made by the federal government to protect orcas. The protection of orcas is important, but the fisherman are outlining that recreational fishing is not the problem. Read all about it and more in today’s edition of the newsletter.

— Emma

ENVIRONMENT

Federal government measures to protect orcas threaten livelihoods in the Westshore

The southern resident killer whales, iconic symbols of the Pacific Northwest, face threats to their survival despite efforts by the Government of Canada to support their recovery. Various protective measures, including fishery closures and increased vessel approach distances, have been implemented by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO). However, proposed regulations have sparked concerns among recreational fishermen, particularly in Port Renfrew and along the Westshore.

One major pain point for recreational fishermen is the DFO's proposed static closure on Chinook salmon fishing in BC Tidal Area 20, scheduled to come into effect during prime fishing season. Critics argue that these measures unfairly target recreational fishing while overlooking environmental factors like shipping noise and pollution.

Chris Tucker, president of the Port Renfrew Chamber of Commerce, highlights the economic significance of the recreational fishery, injecting over $26 million annually into the area alone. He criticizes the lack of scientific basis for the DFO's measures and calls for a more balanced and evidence-based approach to fisheries management.

Tom Davis, a lifelong fisherman, echoes Tucker's concerns, emphasizing the potential social and economic disruption caused by the proposed closures. Both Davis and Tucker are advocating for more viable alternatives, such as expanding mobile avoidance zones, to protect whales without disproportionately impacting the economies of coastal communities.

As discussions with the federal government continue, stakeholders stress the importance of considering the concerns of coastal communities and working towards solutions that ensure the well-being of both humans and whales. However, they lament the lack of meaningful engagement from decision-makers, urging the DFO to listen to the voices of those directly impacted by their regulations.

Head to the Westshore to read the full story by Sidney Coles. 

HOUSING

Sooke development accepting applications

Sooke residents will soon be able to live in the new 170-unit development on Drennan Street and Sooke Road after M’akola Housing Society recently opened up occupancy applications. 

Locals have been waiting months to learn about the occupancy status of the building with the $5.6 million project scheduled to originally open in December. The occupancy date has now been updated to spring of 2024. M’akola did not share the reasons for the delay, however the website does have a statement that says that “all information in [their] developments is subject to change and dates of occupancy are determined based on the development of the project.” 

According to the website, M’akola is currently accepting applications, asking people looking to apply for residency to connect with them via email. The development was completed in late 2023 as a duo of five-storey complexes at 2075 Drennan St. and Sooke Road, but has remained empty throughout the winter and now into the spring. The project will include a variety of units including studios, one bedroom, two bedroom, and three bedroom options. 

The Westshore is one of the fastest growing communities in Canada, with a population growth of almost 50% between 2001 and 2016, and a projected 33% growth over the next decade. Sooke itself is one of the fastest growing municipalities in BC, with the 2021 census showing that the population of East Sooke to Port Renfrew has a 16% yearly growth rate. As both Sooke and the Westshore’s populations continue to grow, housing is increasingly in high demand. 

In February, Sooke Council members unanimously voted in favour of the first three readings of a bylaw that would change the land zoning from commercial to mixed-use; the proposal was a conceptual plan to construct a four-storey building at 6676 Sooke Rd. featuring 35 rental housing units above commercial space, with on-site tuck-behind parking for residents and businesses. 

The Westshore has reached out to M’akola Housing Society to learn more about the opening dates and causes of delay, but did not receive a response in time for publication.

Around the 'Shore

🏒 Westshore local takes on ownership of the Victoria Grizzlies: Westshore businessman Jim Hartshorne is taking over majority ownership of the Victoria Grizzlies Hockey Club this June 1 after the club signed a deal with the local. Hartshorne currently owns and governs the Victoria Shamrocks in the Western Lacrosse Association and previously owned the Victoria Cougars in the Western Hockey League. [Goldstream Gazette]

🚨 52-year-old sentenced for voyeurism at Sooke pool: Mark Istephan has been sentenced to 18 months in jail for voyeurism after an incident at Sooke’s SEAPARC Recreation Centre where he watched a woman in an adjoining cubicle shower and dress. This isn’t the first time Istephan has faced issues with RCMP, after he was previously convicted for attempted kidnapping in a case involving a 13-year-old girl; the sentence will be followed by three years probation. [Times Colonist] 

🚌 RCMP warns drivers to stop for school buses: West Shore RCMP is reminding drivers to stop for school buses with red flashing lights to ensure the safety of students and drivers. Police have already investigated 28 incidents over the school year where a motorist has driven past a school bus while the red lights are flashing.

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Community Events

🎨 Spring Arts & Craft Fair: This April 6, head to Ruth King Elementary for their first ever Spring Craft Fair Fundraiser. Going from 10am to 3pm, check out a variety of local vendors and artisans, food by Judy’s Snack Shack, lawn games, a raffle and entertainment for the kids, and more. The event will be taking place in the field outside regardless of weather so make sure to prepare properly; entry is through donation. 

🪴 Soil Quality Workshop: Learn more about soil quality this April 6 at this outdoor event at PEXSISEN Elementary in Langford. Going from 10am to 12pm, hear from two guest speakers who specialize in soil composition, receive soil samples, and mingle with fellow garden enthusiasts. The event is free for anyone to attend.

🏆 Wrestling comes back to Sooke: 365 Pro Wrestling is back in Sooke and gearing up for an event on April 6. Taking place at the Sooke Community Hall with doors opening at 6pm, tickets cost $30 for front row seats, $20 for general admission, and $15 for youth. Make sure to check out our photo feature on 365 Pro Wrestling and learn a bit more about the history of the event before you attend.

What’s Offshore?

No ships today!

Westshore Snaps

Hairy woodpecker looking for treats. —Glenys Pumfrey, Colwood

That’s it!

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