MEETING
CALENDAR
IMAWG FACILITATES a variety of regional-wide fisheries meetings to create a space for engagement and to support local fisheries with the most up to date information, technical and policy advice.
IMAWG Meeting Calendar
SAVE THE DATE -JUNE 2 & 3, 2026 Fraser Salmon Management Council - Governance Workshop (round two)
June 2, 2026 - June 3, 2026
2026 Clam and Crab Island Marine Techncial Meeting - Tier Two
September 24, 2026
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The Island Marine Aquatic Technical (IMAT) Technical Meeting is a Tier Two working group session hosted by the Island Marine Aquatic Working Group (IMAWG) that brings together Vancouver Island First Nations technical staff and biologists with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) science staff and other invited partners and guests. The meeting focuses on collaboratively reviewing the best available science and technical information to support improved fisheries conservation/management with foundation of supporting First Nations rights based fisheries.
Objectives
The meeting has two primary objectives:
- Build a collaborative technical partnership between IMAWG/IMAT, First Nations biologists and technical staff, DFO scientists and others.
- Jointly analyze technical information to develop advice and recommendations for First Nations and DFO fishery managers that improve conservation, sustainability, and First Nations access to fisheries.
Brief Description
The meeting provides a forum for technical experts to review current research, stock assessment data, and fisheries management issues, and other applicable information affecting species populations. Topics include:
- Assessing stock abundance and biomass data.
- Reviewing scientific literature.
- Discussing new information to management approaches and post-season reviews.
- Examining impacts on fisheries management effecting populations.
- Identifying opportunities for collaborative research and projects between First Nations and partners.
The overall purpose is to combine First Nations knowledge, technical expertise, and modern science to support evidence-based recommendations for sustainability and co-management of resources.
2026 - IMAWG Regional Vancouver Island Meeting - Tier One
October 6, 2026
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The Island Marine Aquatic Working Group (IMAWG) is a First Nations collaborative that brings together 15 member First Nations from the Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Kwakwaka’wakw language areas on and around Vancouver Island. Its role is to support Firss Nations right based fisheries by providing a forum for collaboration, technical advice, information sharing. IMAWG itself is not a rights-holding or decision-making body; instead, it helps Nations coordinate, develop informed positions, and engage more effectively in fisheries co-management discussions.
ALL NATIONS WELCOME AND ENCOURGAGED TO ATTEND
The purpose of this meeting is to:
- Share the latest fisheries science, technical information, and policy updates.
- Discuss issues, priorities, and concerns among Indigenous organizations.
- Develop advice, recommendations, and a coordinated regional perspective.
- Prepare for future discussions with DFO and other governments during Tier Two and Tier Three meetings.
IMAWG meetings are intended to create a safe space for First Nation organizations to:
- Build a unified approach to fisheries management.
- Review scientific, technical, and traditional knowledge.
- Identify priorities and develop collective recommendations.
- Strengthen participation in fisheries co-management.
- Ensure Nations are well-informed before engaging directly with DFO.
BC Salmon Recovery and Resilience Conference 2026
October 14, 2026 - October 16, 2026
2026 Herring Island Marine Aquatic Technical - Tier Two
October 20, 2026
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The Island Marine Aquatic Technical (IMAT) Technical Meeting is a Tier Two working group session hosted by the Island Marine Aquatic Working Group (IMAWG) that brings together Vancouver Island First Nations technical staff and biologists with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) science staff and other invited partners and guests. The meeting focuses on collaboratively reviewing the best available science and technical information to support improved fisheries conservation/management with foundation of supporting First Nations rights based fisheries.
Objectives
The meeting has two primary objectives:
- Build a collaborative technical partnership between IMAWG/IMAT, First Nations biologists and technical staff, DFO scientists and others.
- Jointly analyze technical information to develop advice and recommendations for First Nations and DFO fishery managers that improve conservation, sustainability, and First Nations access to fisheries.
Brief Description
The meeting provides a forum for technical experts to review current research, stock assessment data, and fisheries management issues, and other applicable information affecting species populations. Topics include:
- Assessing stock abundance and biomass data.
- Reviewing scientific literature.
- Discussing new information to management approaches and post-season reviews.
- Examining impacts on fisheries management effecting populations.
- Identifying opportunities for collaborative research and projects between First Nations and partners.
The overall purpose is to combine First Nations knowledge, technical expertise, and modern science to support evidence-based recommendations for sustainability and co-management of resources.
We All Take Care of The Harvest - Vancouvuer Island Workshop
October 22, 2026 - October 23, 2026
TBD
More information to come.
PICES - the North Pacific Marine Science Organization
October 24, 2026 - October 30, 2026
Nanaimo, BC, Canada
Earths' changing climate and environmental stressors presentglobal problems for the sustainability of marine ecosystems and management ofmarine resources. Scientists, policy makers, Indigenous peoples, andcommunities, at regional, national and international scales, must work togetherto identify the best pathway to take care of the ocean. This includesdeveloping actionable science through interdisciplinary and transboundaryresearch, the inclusion of human dimensions in research and management, and theinclusion of policy and regulatory decision makers in science processes tobridge the science/policy interface. Interdisciplinary science collaboration isneeded to understand complex issues, such as the impacts of climate extremes onmarine resources and coastal communities, cumulative impacts of multiplestressors, changes in biodiversity, and the effectiveness of marine protectedareas. Recent advancements in research and monitoring tools, artificialintelligence, as well as social and economic -oriented investigations showpromise in improving our understanding of marine ecosystems and our ability toresolve socioeconomic and environmental conflicts. Key is the communication ofscience, along with uncertainty and risk, to policy and decision makers. Researchby PICES expert groups can feed into actionable science, such as projections,status assessments, and solution-based science. The PICES 2026 annual sciencemeeting will bring together early, mid, and late- career ocean professionals todiscuss, develop, and advance science that is actionable for a rapidly changing
https://meetings.pices.int/about general info
Science program
https://meetings.pices.int/meetings/annual/2026/PICES/Program
Early bird registration by June 30th 250cad, after300
https://meetings.pices.int/meetings/annual/2026/PICES/registration
2026 - IMAWG Regional Vancouver Island Meeting - Tier One
November 3, 2026
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The Island Marine Aquatic Working Group (IMAWG) is a First Nations collaborative that brings together 15 member First Nations from the Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Kwakwaka’wakw language areas on and around Vancouver Island. Its role is to support Firss Nations right based fisheries by providing a forum for collaboration, technical advice, information sharing. IMAWG itself is not a rights-holding or decision-making body; instead, it helps Nations coordinate, develop informed positions, and engage more effectively in fisheries co-management discussions.
ALL NATIONS WELCOME AND ENCOURGAGED TO ATTEND
The purpose of this meeting is to:
- Share the latest fisheries science, technical information, and policy updates.
- Discuss issues, priorities, and concerns among Indigenous organizations.
- Develop advice, recommendations, and a coordinated regional perspective.
- Prepare for future discussions with DFO and other governments during Tier Two and Tier Three meetings.
IMAWG meetings are intended to create a safe space for First Nation organizations to:
- Build a unified approach to fisheries management.
- Review scientific, technical, and traditional knowledge.
- Identify priorities and develop collective recommendations.
- Strengthen participation in fisheries co-management.
- Ensure Nations are well-informed before engaging directly with DFO.
2026 Mid-Year IMAWG Members Meeing
November 4, 2026
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The IMAWG Mid-Year Governance Meeting provides members with an opportunity to review progress made during the first half of the year, assess current priorities, and confirm the group's strategic direction for the remainder of the year.
The meeting will include updates on key initiatives, review progress against the annual work plan, discuss emerging issues and risks, and consider any governance matters requiring member input or decision. Members will also review organizational performance, resource considerations, and opportunities to strengthen collaboration and achieve shared objectives.
The meeting is intended to ensure accountability, support informed decision-making, and maintain alignment with IMAWG's strategic priorities. It also provides a forum for members to share updates, identify challenges, and agree on actions and priorities for the second half of the year.
By the conclusion of the meeting, members will have a clear understanding of progress to date, agreed-upon decisions, updated priorities, and next steps to support the successful delivery of IMAWG's objectives.
FNFC Fall Assembly
November 5, 2026 - November 6, 2026
House of Ancestors "Uda Dune Baiyoh" Conference Center and Cafè, 355 Vancouver St, Prince George, BC V2L 2P1, Canada
See FNFC website for details.
2026 Groundfish Island Marine Aquatic Technical - Tier Two
November 24, 2026
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The Island Marine Aquatic Technical (IMAT) Technical Meeting is a Tier Two working group session hosted by the Island Marine Aquatic Working Group (IMAWG) that brings together Vancouver Island First Nations technical staff and biologists with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) science staff and other invited partners and guests. The meeting focuses on collaboratively reviewing the best available science and technical information to support improved fisheries conservation/management with foundation of supporting First Nations rights based fisheries.
Objectives
The meeting has two primary objectives:
- Build a collaborative technical partnership between IMAWG/IMAT, First Nations biologists and technical staff, DFO scientists and others.
- Jointly analyze technical information to develop advice and recommendations for First Nations and DFO fishery managers that improve conservation, sustainability, and First Nations access to fisheries.
Brief Description
The meeting provides a forum for technical experts to review current research, stock assessment data, and fisheries management issues, and other applicable information affecting species populations. Topics include:
- Assessing stock abundance and biomass data.
- Reviewing scientific literature.
- Discussing new information to management approaches and post-season reviews.
- Examining impacts on fisheries management effecting populations.
- Identifying opportunities for collaborative research and projects between First Nations and partners.
The overall purpose is to combine First Nations knowledge, technical expertise, and modern science to support evidence-based recommendations for sustainability and co-management of resources.
2026 Prawn Island Marine Aquatic Techncial - Tier Two
December 2, 2026
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The Island Marine Aquatic Technical (IMAT) Technical Meeting is a Tier Two working group session hosted by the Island Marine Aquatic Working Group (IMAWG) that brings together Vancouver Island First Nations technical staff and biologists with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) science staff and other invited partners and guests. The meeting focuses on collaboratively reviewing the best available science and technical information to support improved fisheries conservation/management with foundation of supporting First Nations rights based fisheries.
Objectives
The meeting has two primary objectives:
- Build a collaborative technical partnership between IMAWG/IMAT, First Nations biologists and technical staff, DFO scientists and others.
- Jointly analyze technical information to develop advice and recommendations for First Nations and DFO fishery managers that improve conservation, sustainability, and First Nations access to fisheries.
Brief Description
The meeting provides a forum for technical experts to review current research, stock assessment data, and fisheries management issues, and other applicable information affecting species populations. Topics include:
- Assessing stock abundance and biomass data.
- Reviewing scientific literature.
- Discussing new information to management approaches and post-season reviews.
- Examining impacts on fisheries management effecting populations.
- Identifying opportunities for collaborative research and projects between First Nations and partners.
The overall purpose is to combine First Nations knowledge, technical expertise, and modern science to support evidence-based recommendations for sustainability and co-management of resources.
2026 - IMAWG Regional Vancouver Island Meeting - Tier One
December 3, 2026
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The Island Marine Aquatic Working Group (IMAWG) is a First Nations collaborative that brings together 15 member First Nations from the Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Kwakwaka’wakw language areas on and around Vancouver Island. Its role is to support Firss Nations right based fisheries by providing a forum for collaboration, technical advice, information sharing. IMAWG itself is not a rights-holding or decision-making body; instead, it helps Nations coordinate, develop informed positions, and engage more effectively in fisheries co-management discussions.
ALL NATIONS WELCOME AND ENCOURGAGED TO ATTEND
The purpose of this meeting is to:
- Share the latest fisheries science, technical information, and policy updates.
- Discuss issues, priorities, and concerns among Indigenous organizations.
- Develop advice, recommendations, and a coordinated regional perspective.
- Prepare for future discussions with DFO and other governments during Tier Two and Tier Three meetings.
IMAWG meetings are intended to create a safe space for First Nation organizations to:
- Build a unified approach to fisheries management.
- Review scientific, technical, and traditional knowledge.
- Identify priorities and develop collective recommendations.
- Strengthen participation in fisheries co-management.
- Ensure Nations are well-informed before engaging directly with DFO.
2026 - IMAWG Regional Vancouver Island Meeting - Tier One
January 7, 2027
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The Island Marine Aquatic Working Group (IMAWG) is a First Nations collaborative that brings together 15 member First Nations from the Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Kwakwaka’wakw language areas on and around Vancouver Island. Its role is to support Firss Nations right based fisheries by providing a forum for collaboration, technical advice, information sharing. IMAWG itself is not a rights-holding or decision-making body; instead, it helps Nations coordinate, develop informed positions, and engage more effectively in fisheries co-management discussions.
ALL NATIONS WELCOME AND ENCOURGAGED TO ATTEND
The purpose of this meeting is to:
- Share the latest fisheries science, technical information, and policy updates.
- Discuss issues, priorities, and concerns among Indigenous organizations.
- Develop advice, recommendations, and a coordinated regional perspective.
- Prepare for future discussions with DFO and other governments during Tier Two and Tier Three meetings.
IMAWG meetings are intended to create a safe space for First Nation organizations to:
- Build a unified approach to fisheries management.
- Review scientific, technical, and traditional knowledge.
- Identify priorities and develop collective recommendations.
- Strengthen participation in fisheries co-management.
- Ensure Nations are well-informed before engaging directly with DFO.
2027 Salmon Island Marine Aquatic Technical - Tier Two
February 16, 2027
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The Island Marine Aquatic Technical (IMAT) Technical Meeting is a Tier Two working group session hosted by the Island Marine Aquatic Working Group (IMAWG) that brings together Vancouver Island First Nations technical staff and biologists with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) science staff and other invited partners and guests. The meeting focuses on collaboratively reviewing the best available science and technical information to support improved fisheries conservation/management with foundation of supporting First Nations rights based fisheries.
Objectives
The meeting has two primary objectives:
- Build a collaborative technical partnership between IMAWG/IMAT, First Nations biologists and technical staff, DFO scientists and others.
- Jointly analyze technical information to develop advice and recommendations for First Nations and DFO fishery managers that improve conservation, sustainability, and First Nations access to fisheries.
Brief Description
The meeting provides a forum for technical experts to review current research, stock assessment data, and fisheries management issues, and other applicable information affecting species populations. Topics include:
- Assessing stock abundance and biomass data.
- Reviewing scientific literature.
- Discussing new information to management approaches and post-season reviews.
- Examining impacts on fisheries management effecting populations.
- Identifying opportunities for collaborative research and projects between First Nations and partners.
The overall purpose is to combine First Nations knowledge, technical expertise, and modern science to support evidence-based recommendations for sustainability and co-management of resources.
2026 - IMAWG Regional Vancouver Island Meeting - Tier One
February 24, 2027
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The Island Marine Aquatic Working Group (IMAWG) is a First Nations collaborative that brings together 15 member First Nations from the Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Kwakwaka’wakw language areas on and around Vancouver Island. Its role is to support Firss Nations right based fisheries by providing a forum for collaboration, technical advice, information sharing. IMAWG itself is not a rights-holding or decision-making body; instead, it helps Nations coordinate, develop informed positions, and engage more effectively in fisheries co-management discussions.
ALL NATIONS WELCOME AND ENCOURGAGED TO ATTEND
The purpose of this meeting is to:
- Share the latest fisheries science, technical information, and policy updates.
- Discuss issues, priorities, and concerns among Indigenous organizations.
- Develop advice, recommendations, and a coordinated regional perspective.
- Prepare for future discussions with DFO and other governments during Tier Two and Tier Three meetings.
IMAWG meetings are intended to create a safe space for First Nation organizations to:
- Build a unified approach to fisheries management.
- Review scientific, technical, and traditional knowledge.
- Identify priorities and develop collective recommendations.
- Strengthen participation in fisheries co-management.
- Ensure Nations are well-informed before engaging directly with DFO.
2027 Salmon Island Marine Aquatic Technical - Tier Two
March 3, 2027
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The Island Marine Aquatic Technical (IMAT) Technical Meeting is a Tier Two working group session hosted by the Island Marine Aquatic Working Group (IMAWG) that brings together Vancouver Island First Nations technical staff and biologists with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) science staff and other invited partners and guests. The meeting focuses on collaboratively reviewing the best available science and technical information to support improved fisheries conservation/management with foundation of supporting First Nations rights based fisheries.
Objectives
The meeting has two primary objectives:
- Build a collaborative technical partnership between IMAWG/IMAT, First Nations biologists and technical staff, DFO scientists and others.
- Jointly analyze technical information to develop advice and recommendations for First Nations and DFO fishery managers that improve conservation, sustainability, and First Nations access to fisheries.
Brief Description
The meeting provides a forum for technical experts to review current research, stock assessment data, and fisheries management issues, and other applicable information affecting species populations. Topics include:
- Assessing stock abundance and biomass data.
- Reviewing scientific literature.
- Discussing new information to management approaches and post-season reviews.
- Examining impacts on fisheries management effecting populations.
- Identifying opportunities for collaborative research and projects between First Nations and partners.
The overall purpose is to combine First Nations knowledge, technical expertise, and modern science to support evidence-based recommendations for sustainability and co-management of resources.
2027 Vancouver Island Pre-IFMP Salmon Forum - Tier Two
March 10, 2027
MS Teams
Salmon Tier Two Pre-IFMP Forum (IMAWG–DFO)
The Salmon Tier Two Pre-IFMP Forum brings together Vancouver Island Nations and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), facilitateed by IMAWG, to discuss key considerations in advance of the annual Integrated Fisheries Management Plan (IFMP) development process.
The forum provides an opportunity to exchange information, review emerging issues, and identify priorities related to salmon management before formal IFMP consultations begin. Discussions may include updates on salmon stock status, conservation objectives, fisheries planning, First Nation and stakeholder perspectives, anticipated management challenges, and opportunities for collaboration.
The forum is intended to support early engagement, improve mutual understanding of management priorities, and inform the development of the upcoming IFMP. While the meeting provides a venue for discussion and information sharing, it does not replace the formal consultation and decision-making processes associated with the IFMP.
2026 - IMAWG Regional Vancouver Island Meeting - Tier One
March 24, 2027
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre, 1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3, Canada
The Island Marine Aquatic Working Group (IMAWG) is a First Nations collaborative that brings together 15 member First Nations from the Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Kwakwaka’wakw language areas on and around Vancouver Island. Its role is to support Firss Nations right based fisheries by providing a forum for collaboration, technical advice, information sharing. IMAWG itself is not a rights-holding or decision-making body; instead, it helps Nations coordinate, develop informed positions, and engage more effectively in fisheries co-management discussions.
ALL NATIONS WELCOME AND ENCOURGAGED TO ATTEND
The purpose of this meeting is to:
- Share the latest fisheries science, technical information, and policy updates.
- Discuss issues, priorities, and concerns among Indigenous organizations.
- Develop advice, recommendations, and a coordinated regional perspective.
- Prepare for future discussions with DFO and other governments during Tier Two and Tier Three meetings.
IMAWG meetings are intended to create a safe space for First Nation organizations to:
- Build a unified approach to fisheries management.
- Review scientific, technical, and traditional knowledge.
- Identify priorities and develop collective recommendations.
- Strengthen participation in fisheries co-management.
- Ensure Nations are well-informed before engaging directly with DFO.
IMAWG MEETING CALENDAR
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List of Events
Nothing from July 11, 2026 to August 11, 2026.
