BURSTRio Tinto has extended its support for the recovery of the endangered Nechako white sturgeon, announcing a five-year funding commitment that will carry conservation efforts through to 2030.
“Building on more than ten years of collaboration with the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, Rio Tinto is proud to renew a five-year commitment extending the partnership to 15 years,” said Tayna Thorpe, Manager of Communities and Social Performance at Rio Tinto BC Works. “This continued support reflects a long-term approach to conservation, research, and local employment in support of Nechako white sturgeon recovery.”
The funding, in partnership with the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, will enable the annual hiring of two interns and two summer students to assist operations at the Nechako White Sturgeon Conservation Centre in Vanderhoof. The program offers practical experience while contributing to species recovery. The centre raises juvenile sturgeon for release into the Nechako watershed, with 2026 marking the 11th year of the program.
The youth employment program supports three pillars of the recovery initiative: conservation, research and monitoring, and stewardship and education. Interns and students will assist with public outreach, lead Conservation Centre tours, help rear and tag sturgeon, and contribute to ongoing habitat research.
“Thanks to the ongoing commitment from Rio Tinto, four individuals will be given an opportunity to gain new on-the-job skills, helping to deliver programs run out of the Conservation Centre while ensuring Nechako white sturgeon have future stewards to watch over them,” said Mike Manky, Hatchery Manager for the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC.
Recruitment for internship positions is now underway. Summer student roles will be posted on the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC website, gofishbc.com, in March.