Tsolum River facts for kids

The Tsolum River is a short river located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It flows into the Puntledge River, and together they form the Courtenay River. This happens right in the city of Courtenay.

How the Tsolum River Got Its Name

The Tsolum River has had a few different names over the years! On old maps from the navy, it was first called "River Courtenay." Later, an explorer named Dr. Robert Brown called it "Courtney River." It was also known as "the Slough known as Tsalum."

The name "Tzolum River" first appeared on a map of British Columbia in 1895. It showed up again in 1905. Finally, in 1922, the name "Tsolum River" was officially chosen.

Protecting the Tsolum River

In 1964, a company called Mount Washington Copper Mining Co. started a small copper mine near the river. They worked there for about three years. By 1966, the company had left the area. They had removed a lot of rock, about 940,000 tonnes of waste rock.

Even though the mining only lasted a short time, its effects are still seen today. The river used to be full of fish, especially Coho Salmon. There were once around 15,000 Coho Salmon living in the river. But by 1984, that number had dropped to only 14 salmon. This was a huge problem for the river's health.

To help the river recover, local people decided to take action. In 1997, over 200 residents formed a group called the Tsolum River Task Force. Their main goal was to make the Tsolum River healthy again. They wanted to help the fish and other wildlife return. This group works hard to restore the river's natural beauty and productivity.