The decision to close the Mactaquac Biodiversity Facility in New Brunswick has drawn criticism from the Wolastoqey Nation, Atlantic salmon experts, and conservationists. This facility, situated in French Village below the Mactaquac Dam on the St. John River, is being shut down by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans as part of government cost-cutting measures. The closure also includes another facility in Coldbrook, N.S., and will result in the discontinuation of the Atlantic salmon live gene bank program and related salmon-stocking activities.
The Wolastoqey Nation expressed deep concern over the unilateral decision to close the biodiversity facility without consulting or involving them in discussions. The group highlighted the impact on the Wolastoqiyik, their Aboriginal and Treaty rights, the river ecosystem, and the salmon population.
Tommi Linnansaari, a biology professor at the University of New Brunswick, emphasized the importance of the programs at the Mactaquac facility in sustaining salmon populations. The facility plays a crucial role in collecting wild brood stock, fertilizing eggs, releasing baby salmon, and supporting salmon recovery programs in different river systems.
The closure of the hatchery is expected to have severe consequences on salmon populations in the St. John River, which have already dwindled significantly over the years. Experts like David Roth from the Atlantic Salmon Federation raised concerns about the potential devastation to salmon populations and habitat conservation efforts due to the closure of the facility and the termination of stocking programs.
The Wolastoqey Nation’s technical and legal experts are assessing the implications of the decision, including the loss of jobs, training opportunities, and the negative impact on salmon conservation efforts. The group pointed out an agreement dating back to 1968 between the federal government and N.B. Power, emphasizing the commitment to operate the Mactaquac facility in conjunction with the Mactaquac Project.
While the reasons for the closure were not directly addressed by N.B. Power and the fisheries department, concerns have been raised about the potential consequences on salmon populations and the ecosystem. Experts hope for alternative solutions or funding to support salmon recovery efforts and improve the sustainability of fish populations in the region.
In conclusion, the closure of the Mactaquac Biodiversity Facility poses significant challenges for the conservation of Atlantic salmon populations in the region, raising concerns among indigenous communities, conservationists, and experts about the future of salmon conservation efforts and habitat restoration programs.
