Aamjiwnaang First Nation has served notice that fishing along the St. Clair River through its territory is being limited to its members only.
The chief and council issued the order in response to concerns about littering, vehicles driving up and down the riverbank causing damage, and overcrowding on the docks.
No trespassing signs have been posted now under Section 30 of the Indian Act, the Ministry of Natural Resources has been asked to monitor fish licensing, and Band security personnel will patrol the area during peak fishing seasons.
Chief Joanne Rogers says the turning point for her was when a Band member said he had taken his son to fish but his child didn't want to stay because it was so crowded.
"It was a concern for our young people, our elders that couldn't get down there to fish," says Rogers. "We don't want that to be taken away from them, so this is the action that council decided to take."
The Chippewas of Sarnia Band Council approved the action at its regular meeting June 12.