Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg protects White Lake from illegal fishing

A community in northwestern Ontario, Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg, is taking action to protect White Lake from illegal commercial fishing. As walleye fish prepare to spawn, the community feels the Ontario government has failed to enforce fishing regulations. They report that unauthorized fishing has endangered the lake’s fish population and ecosystem. Chief Louis Kwissiwa has stated that the lack of government support has forced the community to monitor the lake themselves. He expressed concern that if the situation does not improve, the fishery could collapse. “For too long, the governments have ignored their responsibility,” he said. The chief noted that the health of White Lake is crucial to the community's culture and way of life. Last year, the community created checkpoints to patrol the lake and deter illegal fishing. They say their efforts have been made without assistance from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. The chief added that overfishing could take 20 years for the lake to recover, which would be detrimental to their community. Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg has sought help from both provincial and federal governments but has often received no response. They are pushing for stronger enforcement of fishing laws and for conservation officers to be assigned to assist them. The Ontario government claims it is in regular contact with Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg to discuss their fishing concerns. They have promised ongoing support but have not commented on specific enforcement actions. The community plans to resume their patrols this spring to protect the lake and its resources.