The Chippewas of Nawash Fisheries Assessment Program (CNFAP) is a long-term data collection program which samples commercially harvested fish species to guide fisheries management decisions. The biological data collected by the Assessment Program is an integral factor in the management of Lake Huron fish stocks, and it aids Nawash Council in management and decision-making regarding their fishery. The CNFAP assessment database includes historical records of commercial fish harvests and the associated biological data within the traditional waters from 1995 to the present day.

Thomas Jones

Furthermore, the CNFAP collaborates with partner organizations to monitor and research native fish stocks and community assemblage, with particular focus on nme (lake sturgeon), and dikameg (lake whitefish). These partners include private companies, academic institutions, government agencies, and many First Nations communities. CNFAP programs focus on SON knowledge and Western science to inform areas of research and understand changes in fish communities over time. This work, along with water quality monitoring and research of trophic bottlenecks, aim to facilitate the future rehabilitation of threatened native fish species that are important to traditional fisheries.

The rehabilitation of Lake Whitefish stocks within SON traditional territory is an ongoing project of particular importance. Lake Whitefish were historically harvested for sustenance and commercial value, and they are still critically important today. Over the past 20 years, Lake Whitefish stocks have declined significantly, and thus community harvesters have struggled alongside. Through numerous partnerships with academic, governmental, and private institutions, the CNFAP is exploring effective management strategies to improve Lake Whitefish stocks.

These partnerships are mutually beneficial to both membership and research partners. The CNFAP is a small and humble program, but through these partnerships we collaborate with experts, access and analyze relevant datasets, share fisheries gear and equipment with researchers, while providing expert harvesters and boat operators who have extensive knowledge of the SON waters and historical fishery/environment. These agreements are mutually beneficial by which the studies gain unique insights about the water and fishery from SON knowledge holders, while those individuals are compensated for sharing their expertise, time, and equipment.