The Beaty Biodiversity Museum was the site of a workshop to train fisheries workers in the basics of fish health management during the week of July 8-12. The course was run by Paige Ackerman (PhD, UBC 2004), and amongst the 18 participants were federal fisheries employees, consultants, local stewardship groups, fish culture technicians, and academics from across BC.
They were introduced to the fundamentals of fish health in the context of fisheries enhancement projects to promote healthy environments for the culture of finfish. The class involved a series of interactive lectures and hands-on practical laboratory exercises. Participants learned about fish anatomy, animal care, the impacts of the aquatic environment and husbandry and management practices on fish health, review of the common pathogens affecting fish in culture, and sampling practices, biosecurity, and disease management all surrounded by the wonders of the Beaty Biodiversity Museum.
This workshop is part of the mission of the Beaty Museum to promote opportunities for outreach and educational opportunities in areas involving the appreciation and conservation of biodiversity.
Dr. Ackerman works within the Department of Fisheries and Oceans as a Regional Enhancement Program Support Biologist, providing biological support to the major Federal Salmon Enhancement Facilities working to enhance populations of salmon and trout.
Written by: Dr. Rick Taylor, Director and Curator of the Fish Collection, Beaty Biodiversity Museum