The importance of the Fishing Branch ecosystem is
based on the unique karst geology and hydrology that help create the
most productive known chum salmon fishery in the northern Yukon. When
the salmon return to spawn, they attract numerous grizzly bears to the
Fishing Branch.
The karst limestone geology has networks of
underground water channels and caves. Warm water flows from underground
reservoirs throughout the winter, creating a productive habitat for
salmon. Other wildlife, such as moose, thrive on the calcium-rich
vegetation from dissolved limestone deposits. Caves provide denning
sites for bears near the salmon spawning grounds.
The Fishing Branch is an important sacred area for
the Vuntut Gwitchin and is within the winter range of the Porcupine
caribou. According to community elders, “an important part of the
history of the Vuntut Gwitchin people is the legend of
K’aiiheenjik, the great warrior. K’aiiheenjik spent his
last days at Bear Cave Mountain which is at the centre of the protected
area. He must have done this because of the abundance of food
there.” (adapted from the Fishing Branch Local Planning Team
Report, 1999)
Due to the extremely sensitive ecosystem in the
Fishing Branch area, visitors must seek permission before visiting.
