A federal advisory committee has expanded its list of endangered Atlantic salmon populations, causing concern among conservation groups in Cape Breton. There are worries that this change could result in the cessation of recreational fishing for this iconic species in most of New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans acknowledges this possibility but emphasizes that it is not a definite outcome.
The reassessment of salmon populations, including those along the entire coast of Nova Scotia and throughout the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence, was revealed during federal fisheries meetings with stakeholders earlier this month. Rene Aucoin, the president of the Cheticamp River Salmon Association, expressed surprise at the announcement made during these meetings. While acknowledging the challenges faced by salmon populations along Nova Scotia’s Atlantic coast, he highlighted the success of the western side of Cape Breton Island in sustaining robust salmon returns over the past decade.
Bill Hailey, the vice-president of the Margaree Salmon Association, echoed Aucoin’s sentiments, noting the contrasting situations between the Miramichi River in New Brunswick and the Margaree River, where the salmon population remains healthy. Concerns have been 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, potentially leading to the end of recreational angling activities.
While the process of listing a species as endangered under federal legislation is lengthy and complex, stakeholders are preparing to challenge any permanent changes to the salmon status. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the potential listing, DFO’s manager of biodiversity management in the Gulf region, Robert Jones, emphasized that decisions will be based on a comprehensive evaluation of scientific, socio-economic, and conservation factors. The ongoing Atlantic salmon conservation strategy implemented by DFO aims to rebuild fish stocks, although critics argue that it lacks adequate funding.
COSEWIC is expected to make recommendations to Environment and Climate Change Canada in the fall, with considerations extending to economic impacts, conservation efforts, social implications, and Indigenous perspectives. The process will involve consultations with the public, conservation organizations, industry stakeholders, and First Nations to ensure a balanced decision-making approach.
