A federal committee has expanded its list of endangered Atlantic salmon populations, causing concern among conservation groups in Cape Breton. There are worries that the updated status could lead to the end of recreational fishing for the iconic species in most of New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans acknowledges this as a possibility but emphasizes that it is not a definite outcome.
The reassessment of salmon populations, including those along Nova Scotia’s entire coast and in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence, was disclosed during recent federal fisheries meetings with stakeholders. Rene Aucoin, president of the Cheticamp River Salmon Association, expressed surprise at the announcement made at the end of one of these meetings, describing it as unexpected.
While acknowledging the challenges facing salmon populations along Nova Scotia’s Atlantic coast, Aucoin highlighted the success of the western side of Cape Breton Island in recent years. He questioned the decision to label their region as endangered despite observing strong salmon returns over the past decade.
Similarly, Bill Hailey, vice-president of the Margaree Salmon Association, noted the contrasting situations between the struggling Miramichi River in New Brunswick and the healthy state of the Margaree River. He expressed disappointment at being associated with less favorable conditions, emphasizing the positive status of their river.
Concerns are raised that the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) may recommend adding the Nova Scotia and southern Gulf salmon populations to the Species at Risk Act, which could potentially impact recreational angling activities. While the process of listing a species as endangered under federal legislation is complex and lengthy, stakeholders are prepared to challenge any permanent changes to the salmon status.
DFO officials emphasize that decisions regarding species listing consider scientific advice along with socio-economic factors. Despite the seriousness of the assessment change, the fate of the salmon populations remains uncertain, with assessments being conducted on a river-specific basis. The potential economic impact, conservation efforts, social implications, and Indigenous perspectives will also be taken into consideration during the decision-making process.
DFO’s ongoing Atlantic salmon conservation strategy aims to rebuild fish stocks, although criticisms have been raised about the adequacy of funding for this initiative. COSEWIC’s recommendations are expected to be presented to Environment and Climate Change Canada in the fall, with a comprehensive evaluation of various factors influencing the final decision.
