Salmon in the city

The Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) is the advocate for local government in British Columbia. UBCM’s vision is to effectively represent and serve all local governments in BC. UBCM focusses on policy development and implementation, government relations, external communications, and liaison with other groups.

Members range from First Nations Bands to local government bodies and regional districts.

Recently a convention was held in downtown Vancouver where members met to showcase their businesses and discuss their common needs. This is a time when they share information and advice, and get involved in open communications with each other, and local government officials.

Larry Samson, Campbell River City Councillor, said, “UBCM is such an important part of our coastal communities, the provincial and federal governments help us move forward our proposals and constitutions.”

There are interesting things happening in the lower mainland and Larry Samson would like to see more open and frequent conversations happening between small communities and big cities.

BC Salmon Farmers Association hosted an evening of food and drinks at Mahoney and Sons on Burrard landing, it was an opportunity for everyone to unwind and enjoy a much-deserved break after the convention.

Mahoney and Sons is a city favourite, people come for the vibe, the food and the view. A mere glance at their menu shows their pride in sourcing and serving foods that are mostly local, ethical, and sustainable.

Mahoney’s chefs prepared fresh salmon (courtesy of members of the BCSFA) that was delivered to their doors within two hours of being harvested. There was a variety of bite-sized finger foods including little avocado sliders with fresh grilled salmon, and salmon on crackers. The chefs let the product speak for itself by opting out on seasoning and sauces and it seems to have been a complete hit – judging from the empty platters groups were gathered around.

Rudy Storteboom, councillor of City of Langley, popped by to try a salmon slider, he said, “Old guys like me need salmon and this is real good salmon.”

According to Dr. Jim Powell, CEO of BC Centre for Aquatic Health Sciences (CAHS), the biggest misconceptions regarding aquaculture and ecosystems can be clarified with more education and information made available to consumers.

BC CAHS’s mission is to improve the health of aquatic animals and ecosystems by developing applied scientific knowledge. Their vision is to deliver innovative and practical solutions for aquatic animal and environmental health.

Jeremy Dunn, Executive Director at BC Salmon Farmers Association, said, “It’s a great opportunity for fish farmers and city people to mingle while enjoying a product that is fresh and local.”

The evening was a rare opportunity to chat with politicians about their small communities regarding growth and sustainability. It was an even rarer chance to have in depth conversations with the people who grow our food.

Originally published on theprovince.com