While the rivers, streams, and estuary of the Fraser River Basin are among the most productive on the planet, urban growth, industrial development, and expanding demand for natural resources are causing environmental stress.

The Fraser River Action Plan (FRAP) is a federal government program designed to unite partners, called stakeholders, in an effort to achieve sustainable economic growth and to improve fish and wildlife habitat.

The program has enhanced fish habitat at over two dozen locations, acquired key parcels of land for protection and stewardship, and encouraged both industry and agriculture to adopt environmentally-responsible attitudes.

Through the Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy, the program funds Native bands for dozens of projects including the construction of fish-rearing channels for salmon and trout. The co-operation and expertise of 96 Native bands is making a difference in the health of the river basin.

Other aboriginal groups are participating in a training program which carries out enforcement and monitoring activities for the Native food fishery.

FRAP scientists are rebuilding marshes and sloughs, reclaiming habitat below hydro dams, removing barriers to fish migration, and improving water flows. River banks are being made more stable, and streamside vegetation is being protected.

The Fraser River's health is at a critical stage. But it is considered to be at a level that will continue to respond to rehabilitation despite predictions of a 50 per cent growth in population over the next 20 years.

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