The BC Centre for Aquatic Health Sciences (BC CAHS) has been renamed the Indigenous Centre for Aquatic Health Sciences & Stewardship (ICAHS) as part of a transition to Indigenous governance and leadership.
Based in Campbell River, British Columbia, the organisation provides aquatic health testing, research and technical support services to First Nations, government agencies, industry and coastal communities.
The transition is being supported by a C$50,000 (US$36,500) contribution from the Province of British Columbia, which the centre said will help establish governance structures and support future growth.
ICAHS said it will continue to operate as an ISO-accredited aquatic health science facility, including salmonid pathogen testing, while expanding its role in stewardship, monitoring and research programmes with First Nations.
The organisation said it is also exploring plans for a larger science and stewardship facility on Liǧʷiłdaxʷ territory near Campbell River.
Executive director Ahmed Siah said the centre would continue to combine aquatic health science services with Indigenous knowledge and stewardship initiatives.
The centre has provided aquatic health services for more than 20 years.