T. Buck Suzuki Foundation: Fall Newsletter
Photo credit Chelsey Ellis
Fall Newsletter September 2026
Your Quarterly Update from T. Buck Suzuki Environmental Foundation
Reflections from Haida Gwaii
Earlier this summer, our Executive Director, Alaina, had the opportunity to be in Haida Gwaii, around the time three new totem poles were raised. She was fortunate enough to see the newly raised poles and found herself captivated by the craftsmanship — the incredible artwork, detail, and symmetry. Standing there and looking at them was also a reminder of how much there is to learn. The poles carry stories, history, culture, and knowledge that reach far beyond what we might see at first glance. It was a moment that brought home the importance of taking the time to listen, learn, and better understand the Indigenous Peoples and cultures connected to the places where we live, work, and play.
At T. Buck, we are always learning and unlearning. We know that reconciliation is an ongoing process that asks us to keep listening, reflecting, and looking at how we can do better. In essence, it means unlearning some of the things we have been conditioned to learn, and making space to re-learn with greater understanding, openness, and respect. This September 30, we will be taking the day to reflect on truth and reconciliation and on our own role in that work. We hope you will take some time to do the same — whether that's learning something new, listening to Indigenous voices and perspectives, or simply taking a moment to reflect on what reconciliation can mean in your own community.
Events in the Community
Victoria BC Crab Fest Highlight
Our summer tour ended on a high note at Victoria's Ship Point. The BC Crab Fest was busy all day, allowing us to connect with hundreds of seafood lovers about the importance of supporting our local independent harvesters! Overall, our summer outreach events were a great opportunity to connect with ocean lovers, seafood consumers, and the general public to educate about the amazing local fisheries on our coast. 'Sea' you next year!
2nd Annual Food Symposi-Yum
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 12:00pm – 4:00pm Location: Prince Rupert, B.C.
We are spotlighting this wonderful free event in Prince Rupert! The event brings together local harvesters, food makers, and service organizations to tackle food security and celebrate regional harvests.
Industry News, Policy & Resources
Conferences & Milestones
Sending well-wishes to colleagues at the Conservation Alliance for Seafood Solutions Conference in Halifax (Sept 22–24) and the Responsible Seafood Summit in Thailand (Sept 21–24).
The UN FAO Committee on Fisheries recently concluded its 37th session in Rome (Sept 7–11), addressing aquatic food security and governance. We are tracking outcomes to share key highlights soon.
Network Updates
October is National Seafood Month, and the Local Catch Network is celebrating its 15th anniversary with the expanded "Find Your Local Catch" campaign! This initiative connects consumers with local harvesters and highlights chefs featuring sustainable B.C. catch. Find out more about Local Catch here.
Have you checked out the BC Young Fishermen's Network Facebook page? Visit here!
Upcoming October Conferences
Ocean in a High-CO2 World
Date: October 13-16 Location: Wellington, New Zealand This is the 6th International Science Symposium on Ocean Acidification.
We are so grateful for the dedicated work of the international scientific community gathering next month, and we look forward to learning from the insights and key takeaways that come out of the conference.
PICES 2026 Annual Meeting
Date: October 24-30 Location: Nanaimo, B.C. Centred on the theme Actionable Science for a Changing Ocean, this year's gathering focuses on how scientific research can directly address the rapid shifts occurring across marine ecosystems. We are looking forward to connecting with ocean science professionals and learning about practical solutions for healthy marine ecosystems.
Terra Madre: Slow Food International
Our Executive Director, Alaina, is heading to Italy this September for Terra Madre - a global gathering hosted by the Slow Food network to support healthy ecosystems.
“I’m looking forward to connecting with people worldwide to learn how they’re supporting small-scale fisheries. Sharing ideas and problem-solving together is what makes these global gatherings so valuable.” - Alaina Pyde
Save the Date: Mark your calendars for December 10th (Terra Madre Day)! T. Buck Suzuki is looking to host a local Slow Fish event in B.C.
Salmon in Schools Spotlight
Locally caught salmon arrived last month at the dock for school meals in Prince Rupert through the Salmon in Schools initiative.
By purchasing directly from local harvesters, the program supports student nutrition and re-invests in the local economy, building vital partnerships with local harvesters and processors.
BC Seafood Buying Guide
This summer we launched an exciting new online resource! This guide makes it easier than ever to find sustainable, local seafood directly from the people who catch it.
Fisheries 101 Series Launch
Every week on Facebook and Instagram, we’re breaking down the types of commercial fishing gear used along the B.C. coast, from purse seiners and longliners to traps, commercial divers, and trollers. Click the social icons at the bottom of this email to follow along!
Catch of the Quarter What’s in Season This Fall!
Featured Fall Seafood:
Late-Run Salmon (Chum, Coho, Chinook)
Pacific Halibut
Pacific Sablefish (Blackcod)
Rockfish & Lingcod
Dungeness Crab
Dive Fisheries (Sea Cucumbers, Sea Urchins, Geoduck Clams)
Check out our BC Seafood Buying Guide on our website to connect directly with independent harvesters, dockside sales, and community seafood hubs across the province.
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