Homayno IPCA

Description

This site is comprised of a variety of habitats supporting a wide range of biologically diverse species. Rock cliffs and ramps, sandy and rocky bottom, sand and gravel flats and beaches, mainland fjord with steep fjord walls, high rugosity, eelgrass beds, kelp forests, and estuaries support species such as marine birds, five species of salmon, rockfish (including copper and quillback), and a variety of invertebrates, such as clams, Dungeness crab, urchin, sponges and healthy sunflower sea stars. The 305 estuaries and associated species also offer critical habitat for sustaining healthy grizzly bear populations.

The site is of high cultural and spiritual importance to the Wei Wai Kum, and other local First Nations. The area is home to over thirty documented archaeological sites, including ancient village sites. It continues to be used for traditional food harvest and cultural practices with the Nation focusing on restoration of species and habitats.

The site is zoned as a Special Management Zone (SMZ) – Cultural/Economic emphasis – in the NVI sub-region MaPP plan and is intended to reinforce high value for cultural value protection, food security, and related aboriginal economic development activities. There has been considerable effort in the area by the Wei Wai Kum, with DFO and A’Tlegay on fish inventory work in Heydon Creek and clam garden restoration. Portions of the proposed area overlap with commercial fishing activity including for prawn, sea cucumber, and rockfish. Several log handling sites exist within the site and support forest company interests in the adjacent watersheds.