By the mid 1800's salmon numbers were beginning to decline due to predation and the building of dams that impeded their access to spawning areas. As a result, the first hatcheries were built across the Maritimes with the first one on P.E.l. being built in 1879 on the Dunk River. Salmon were stocked in an attempt to maintain their population.

By the mid-1900's salmon populations on P.E.l. were starting to see dramatic declines from environmental problems and the spread of beaver. By the mid-1960's, 55 Island streams had salmon populations. In 2002, P.E.l. was down to 33 streams having salmon and, since then, an additional 11 rivers have lost their salmon populations.

In 2008, retired U.P.E.I. professor Daryl Guignion led a study into the development of a comprehensive strategy for Atlantic salmon on P.E.l. In his study his developed a classification systemfor all Island rivers and developed suggestions to help rehabilitate salmon stocks in Island Rivers. In the study the Souris River is classified as a Class IV river, which is a river that salmon have completely disappeared from. In most cases, Class IV Rivers can no longer support a population of salmon because the habitat may no longer support a salmon population - but Guignion saw the Souris River as an exception.

In his report, Guignion praised the work of the local watershed group in repairing most of the habitat damage that has caused the disappearance of the salmon. He also commended the efforts of the local farmers who have taken great strides to improve water quality and reduce wind and water erosion Atlantic salmon.

Souris River Watershed Coordinator Fred Cheverie releasing salmon into the Souris River. photo by Waldron Leard

In 2009, Daryl Guignion's suggestion became reality and the Souris River was designated a "Research River" for the restocking of Atlantic salmon. In order for this to happen the river had to meet specific requirements. One of the key requirements was the farmers in the area have at least a history of implementing environmentally friendly farm practices and that the farmers and watershed group have a history of working cooperatively. In August of this year up to 8,000 small salmon were stocked in the Souris River. In addition, the Wildlife Federation took on a series of initiatives that will ensure these salmon have the proper habitat to be successful. The stocking will continue for the next few years and scientific monitoring will be ongoing. This is a great example of someone recognizing the work. Island farmers have put into environmental stewardship in recent years. The farmers in the Souris River watershed deserve to be recognized for their work. I think it is important to recognize the courage and trust these farmers put into the Wildlife Federation. Often times, farmers are apprehensive about becoming involved with a watershed group and, I must say; there have been times when this apprehension was justified. I do think this is changing and I see more and more opportunities for farmers and' watershed groups to work together.

In the Souris River watershed, they have essentially moved to the next level. The habitat and water quality is at a point where scientists feel it can support the "canary in the coalmine." The only question remaining is,"How far can they go?"

From the Island Farmer December 16, 2009

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Souris Branch of the P.E.I. Wildlife Federation

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