What we do

Founded as a society in 1985, the Mainland Enhancement of Salmonoid Species Society (MESSS) grew out of a shared commitment to protect and restore salmon populations through hands-on stewardship and collaboration. From the outset, the society’s purpose was clear: to incubate and rear salmon stocks, rehabilitate damaged streams, enhance selected waterways with salmonoid species, and work closely with fisheries officials to ensure responsible, science-based enhancement practices.
 

The Hatchery Years (1984–2007)

MESSS’s work began in earnest in 1984, when funding was secured to construct a hatchery building and supporting infrastructure on land generously offered by Whonnock Logging. This early foundation was made possible through the remarkable generosity of American philanthropist, sports fisherman, and businessman Pete Taggares—often referred to as the “Potato King.” Over many years, Pete contributed more than $2.3 million toward salmon enhancement in Canadian streams, supporting hatcheries throughout British Columbia.

The Scott Cove Hatchery was established to enhance coho salmon stocks in Scott Cove on Gilford Island and its feeder creeks, as well as in several streams in nearby Kingcome Inlet. Alongside enhancement efforts, MESSS undertook the rehabilitation of spawning habitat in waterways that had been damaged by logging. Led by dedicated community members and guided by long-standing champions such as Billy Proctor, the society worked closely with Fisheries and Oceans Canada to help rebuild salmon runs in twenty-three streams.

From 1984 through 2007, numerous streams were stocked annually with coho fry raised in the Scott Cove hatchery. Fed by the clear waters of Scott Cove Creek, the fry were carefully nurtured by hatchery manager Claudia Maas and those who served before her. During the 1990s, local observers noted a dramatic collapse in the chum salmon population in the Viner River, with fewer than a few hundred spawning adults returning. In response, MESSS helped initiate a multi-year river rehabilitation effort, supported by the Pacific Salmon Foundation, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and Interfor Logging Company. A dedicated Chum Salmon Enhancement Project began in 1999 and continued through 2007.

A Legacy of Stewardship

For decades, MESSS was sustained not only by grants and partnerships, but by the deep care of individuals who believed profoundly in the responsibility to look after salmon and the places they return to.  Until his passing in 2025 at the age of 90, funding from Billy Proctor's museum supported much of MESSS’s habitat restoration work on Gilford Island. His generosity allowed critical projects to move forward year after year, often without recognition or expectation of return.

Billy’s commitment went far beyond financial support. He believed deeply in community-led stewardship, in showing up, and in caring for these streams. His presence, wisdom, and steadfast belief in the work, shaped MESSS in ways that continue to be felt today. He will be greatly missed.

Today and Looking Forward

As coastal populations have declined and community capacity has shifted, MESSS has currently paused all operations of our hatchery. Instead, the society has refocused its efforts on habitat restoration and long-term stock monitoring in partnership with Fisheries and Oceans Canada. 
 

While decades of hatchery supplementation once helped support local salmon populations, healthy runs ultimately depend on healthy habitat. Restoration remains essential.

At its peak, MESSS could call on thirty to forty local volunteers during the fall months, when returning coho spawners arrived in large numbers. Like many coastal communities, Echo Bay has since seen its population decline as resource-based employment opportunities have disappeared. Today, MESSS reaches beyond its immediate community, welcoming both volunteers and paid support, including university students seeking hands-on field experience in salmon conservation and aquatic ecosystems.

Following Billy’s passing, Irvin Speck stepped into the role of President of MESSS. Raised in Hopetown on Watson Island, as were generations of his family before him, Irvin brings a deep, lived understanding of the local land and waters. Like Billy, he believes in leading stewardship efforts by example and in the importance of volunteering to care for what sustains us all. Under his leadership, MESSS continues its work with humility, respect, and strong community roots.

Supporting the Work

The work of MESSS continues because of people who care deeply about salmon, streams, and the future of these ecosystems. If you would like to support this ongoing stewardship, donations can be made using the Donate button at the top of the website via CanadaHelps. Your support helps ensure that restoration, monitoring, and community-led conservation efforts can continue for generations to come.