A federal advisory panel has broadened the scope of imperiled Atlantic salmon populations, causing concern among conservation organizations in Cape Breton. The potential consequence of this adjustment is the potential cessation of recreational fishing for one of the East Coast’s emblematic species across 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 an inevitable outcome.
The reevaluation of salmon populations, including those along the entire coast of Nova Scotia and throughout the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence, was disclosed during federal fisheries meetings with stakeholders earlier this month. Rene Aucoin, president of the Cheticamp River Salmon Association, expressed surprise at the new assessment status, particularly given the robust salmon population on the western side of Cape Breton Island, which has thrived over the past decade.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by salmon populations on Nova Scotia’s Atlantic coast, Aucoin and Bill Hailey, vice-president of the Margaree Salmon Association, highlighted the contrasting situation in the Margaree River, which remains healthy. There are concerns 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 restrictions on recreational angling activities.
The process of potentially listing the species as endangered under federal legislation is complex and protracted, involving consultations with the public, conservation groups, industry stakeholders, and Indigenous communities. Despite the opportunity for stakeholders to voice opposition to a permanent status change, the prolonged nature of the process heightens apprehensions.
Robert Jones, DFO’s manager of biodiversity management in the Gulf region, emphasized that decisions regarding the listing of species under the Species at Risk Act consider not only scientific advice but also socio-economic factors. While the assessment change signifies a conservation concern, the final outcome is uncertain, with considerations extending to potential economic impacts, conservation efforts, social implications, and Indigenous perspectives in the decision-making process.
DFO initiated an Atlantic salmon conservation strategy last year to restore fish stocks. However, criticisms have surfaced regarding the adequacy of funding for the strategy. COSEWIC is expected to offer recommendations to Environment and Climate Change Canada in the fall, with subsequent evaluations integrating various perspectives and impacts before any definitive actions are taken.
