Fall count of brood salmon- Restigouche River.

The most accurate evaluation possible of brood fish is necessary to manage salmon more efficiently. In this perspective, the CGBVRR/RRWMC, assisted by a team of volunteers, wishes to export the fall count method in spawning areas presently used on Quebec rivers of our watershed to the rivers and tributaries of Upsalquitch, Kedgwick, Little Main Restigouche and Restigouche. A total of 21 watercourses are targeted, representing 566 km of rivers and brooks. We want to count brood fish in the spawning areas, determine their distribution in the system and evaluate the access to the concerned tributaries in relation to the obstructions on a three year period. By comparing with stock evaluation methods presently used (rate of success and apnea count in September) we will improve evaluation techniques of conservation thresholds percentage reached while developing expertise and partnerships which will make it easier to monitor populations in the future.

Contact: David LeBlanc, 506-759-7300, restigouche@globetrotter.net