Implementing Atlantic Salmon Conservation Strategies for the Tabusintac Watershed

TWA and partners would address nine of the strategies from its report Atlantic Salmon Conservation Strategy – Headwaters of the Tabusintac Watershed to improve Atlantic salmon habitat and populations. Water temperatures and pH would be taken throughout the watershed starting in Spring and continued until the Fall. Water and light sensors would be placed in-situ in tributaries of the headwaters and bay to gather long-term water and light trends. Water quality analyses for water chemistry, bacteria, and metals would be conducted in the Spring and Fall within the main tributaries. Habitat assessments would be conducted in the summer months to determine any threats to upcoming spawning season, for example, lack of riparian zones, invasive species, habitat fragmentation, and beaver dams. The project would document and compile water quality data and parameters to add to the existing background data from partners and government agencies. TWA would work with partners to determine areas of cold-water refuge within the Tabusintac watershed. The strategies implemented would provide outreach for the importance of Atlantic salmon within the watershed and provide BMPs to mitigate impacts on Atlantic salmon populations and habitats. Consultations among different government agencies, partners, First Nations, academia, and industry would be conducted to implement strategies as “low wake zones” for Atlantic salmon habitat, implement same size buffer zones measured on a horizonal plane, and provide signage and education on conservation. TWA would be able to attend meetings and workshops to help mitigate threats for Atlantic salmon populations and habitats. The project would allow TWA and partners to create an information kiosk regarding conservation of Atlantic salmon that would be displayed at multi- events. Tabusintac area is expected to receive 15 times the population size in tourists and summer residents in 2025 with a community event that lasts a week in Tabusintac, NB. Activities from the events will include areas of Atlantic salmon habitat.