I mourn the decline of Atlantic salmon. I need politicians who get what’s at stake
As a resident of Storeytown, N.B., my connection to Atlantic salmon runs deep. In the summer of 1962, my father and I were tasked with transporting adult salmon upriver to ensure they could reach their spawning grounds. This experience left a lasting impression on me, as I witnessed firsthand the obstacles these magnificent fish faced due to human interference.
Fast forward to the present day, and I find myself living beside the Miramichi River, once a thriving hub for salmon fishing. However, the decline in salmon populations in recent years has been alarming. The once abundant returns have dwindled to mere fractions of what they used to be, leaving me disheartened and concerned for the future of this iconic species.
The management of Atlantic salmon has become a critical issue for me in this federal election. The decline in salmon populations is not just a local concern, but a reflection of broader issues affecting Canada’s fisheries. The mismanagement of predator species like the striped bass, which prey on salmon smolt, has further exacerbated the situation.
The Atlantic salmon is not just another fish; it is a symbol of our maritime heritage and a vital component of our ecosystem. Its decline represents a loss of livelihood for many communities and a blow to the environmental health of our rivers and oceans. We cannot afford to let this species slip away without a fight.
As I cast my vote in this election, I am looking for a government that will prioritize the protection and preservation of Atlantic salmon. I want to see concrete plans and actions to reverse the decline in salmon populations and ensure a sustainable future for this iconic species. It is time for Ottawa to step up and do right by Atlantic Canadians by safeguarding our fisheries and the species that call them home.
