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Atlantic Salmon Project - 2009

My father in his youth wandered to his fishing holes at Big Pond, Larkin's or MacInnis' Dam with Jimmy Brennan, Carlton Joyce and other friends. When quite young, I tagged along and once caught an Atlantic salmon. Dad made me, under protest, put it back. Last Thursday, I had a thrill when a few out of close to 4,000 newly released salmon in the Souris River swam across the top of my boots.
Todd Dupuis, Director of Regional Programs for the Atlantic Salmon Federation, described how those released will spend the winter in the River's upper branches. Those that survive will smoltify and make their way downstream to the sea next spring. When they leave, they will remember the Souris River. Each river has a chemical signature. These fish have the capacity to store the odour in their brain. When they return, they will smell their way home.

The outbound destination will be the seas around Newfoundland and Labrador. Some may even enter the waters surrounding Greenland. They grow extremely fast. It will be at least a year – perhaps two before they return as adults. It is hoped that two to three per cent will come "home".
The hazards are many. Mortality is high whether through Mother Nature or by man. However, 20 to 30 adults will provide a lot of eggs. The survivors are the foundation for the future.
It has been a long time - summer of 2001, since salmon have been seen in Souris River. Through years of intensive labour, the Souris & Area Branch of the PEI Wildlife Federation has made the Souris River salmon friendly. The streams have been walked, assessed and maintained. About 40 beaver dams have been removed. Trout stocks have doubled and even tripled. Paths have been developed. 25-30 digger logs were installed this year.
Stewardship by property owners and farmers with the use of programs through EG&S and ALUS has also been important. Good land use practices such as enhanced buffer zones and spring plowing has made the Souris River one of the healthiest systems in PEI. Souris Wildlife coordinator Fred Cheverie sees that the enhancement is working.
This is more than placing fish in the River. It is an intensive research project. Described by admirers as the patron saint of conservation in PEI, Darryl Guignon with support staff is happy to work in the Souris area. The river is manageable with two branches almost equal in length. The water temperatures are close. The water is easily accessed through the cooperation of landowners. There is a pride and a strong interest in Eastern Kings.
Heavy labour is difficult. Area students have done much. Tim Brothers says it is great to see species that are natural to the area replenished. Anthony MacDonald, another fourth year summer employee, exudes a sense of pride in doing something for the environment. An angler, Luke Robichaud is looking forward to 2011 and obeying PEI law by someday catching - and releasing one of these fish in his home river.
To make a difference in the environment, many people have come together. This effort is an example of how cooperation breeds success.
From the Eastern Graphic August 26, 2009
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Souris Branch of the P.E.I. Wildlife Federation
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