Prince Rupert Port Authority funds cannery conservation project

PRINCE RUPERT, B.C.–The Prince Rupert Port Authority has announced that a contribution from its Community Investment Fund will benefit North Pacific Cannery’s Working Dock Restoration project, part of the historic site’s 125th anniversary conservation program.

With the contribution of $200,000, the Port Edward Historical Society will launch a 20,000-square foot restoration of the Working Dock at North Pacific Cannery, the oldest remaining intact salmon cannery on the West Coast of North America. The project is the final piece of an intensive five-year restoration effort with a budget of $2.3 million dedicated to preserving North Pacific Cannery’s 29 heritage buildings and structures, said a port release.

“As a Parks Canada-designated National Historic Site, North Pacific Cannery commemorates the role of the fishing industry in the economic and cultural development of not only northwestern BC, but of Canada,” said Don Krusel, President and CEO of the Prince Rupert Port Authority. “It is a reflection of the wide-ranging benefits of today’s port activity, which extend from our region to across the nation.”

Ken Veldman, Director of Public Affairs with the Prince Rupert Port Authority, made the announcement on Saturday at the opening ceremonies of the Cannery’s 125th anniversary celebration.

“This restoration project preserves an important heritage site for future generations, creates local jobs and skills training opportunities, boosts tourism through an improved visitor experience, and increases the capacity for North Pacific Cannery to host large community functions and special events,” said Veldman. “For all these reasons, PRPA is proud to partner with the many other businesses and community groups contributing to this legacy.”