Fleming College

Do you require Backpack Electrofishing certification as part of your research or employment?

Course Content

Gain the hands-on skills to use Backpack Electrofishing safely and effectively for stream surveys. Learn theory and techniques in class before spending a day in the field to practice your new skills. On the final day you will have time to review what you have learned before taking a written certification test.

There will be a one-day, in-class session (8 hours), followed by a field day (8-9 hours), and a half-day of review and testing (4 hours).

Participants will handle equipment in class and in the field and will be expected to demonstrate safe electrofishing practices during the in-field stream visit.

Note: There is a minimum requirement on testing to receive certification.

Electrofishing Courses

• Electrofishing
• Fish ID for Electrofishing

Equipment

Backpack Electrofishing equipment is provided by the College. Participants may bring their own equipment if it is in good repair and has been serviced by the manufacturer within the last five years.

Each participant must have their own non-breathable, non-leaking chest waders. On the field day, each student must bring their own food, beverages, and other essentials they may require.

FAQs

Is this the Class 2 Backpack Electrofishing course?

This course is similar in scope to the former Class 2 course. With the closure of the Institute for Watershed Science, the Ministry of Northern Development, Mining, Natural Resources and Forestry (MNDMNRF) will now train in-house only. The terms Class 1 and Class 2 will be retained within MNDMNRF, most outside agencies will no longer be using these terms.

Will this certification allow me to obtain an MNDMNRF Licence to Collect Fish for Scientific Purposes?

The MNDMNRF has many criteria that it considers for these applications; Electrofishing certification is not necessary for this and never has been. Training is typically seen as due diligence within your own agency to ensure you are performing in a safe and effective manner and it can be a valuable addition to your resume.

Contact

For more information on the Backpack Electrofishing course, including cost, registration, accommodation options, and course details, contact:

Brian Round
brian.round@flemingcollege.ca