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Dear MSA Members and Supporters,
As we delve into the bustling month of May, the Miramichi Salmon Association (MSA) is abuzz with activity as our field season kicks into high gear. Our dedicated Biologist, Lyndsay Jay-Keating, has been preparing equipment for our annual smolt estimates on the Northwest Miramichi and Dungarvon rivers. These estimates are pivotal in our conservation efforts, requiring daily attention to ensure accuracy and reliability. A heartfelt thank you to our tireless team whose commitment makes these endeavors possible.
In tandem, Holly Labadie, our hatchery manager, alongside technicians Dylan Hyland and Mitch O’Donnell, have been hard at work transferring recently hatched first feeding fry to our combi tanks. These delicate tasks demand monumental efforts to ensure the successful release of these fish into the wild by late May or early June. It is inspiring to witness the dedication and passion exhibited by our MSA team.
On the advocacy front, I've recently engaged in several significant meetings, notably with the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Alongside Nathan Wilbur from ASF, we effectively communicated the pressing issue of the escalating striped bass population in the Miramichi. The outcome of this meeting holds promise, and we hope there will be some constructive follow-up actions to address the challenges within our watershed.
Additionally, I had the privilege of meeting with four Senators from New Brunswick to articulate our concerns regarding the Miramichi. Their genuine empathy towards the plight of our salmon populations underscores the pivotal role of Atlantic salmon in our ecosystem and its profound socio-economic impact on the Miramichi region.
I am pleased to share with you that I had the privilege of attending The Plamu First Conference, hosted by the North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council, held at the Rodd Hotel from April 22nd to 24th. This conference proved to be an exceptional gathering, serving as a vital platform for various stakeholders within the Miramichi community to convene, deliberate upon pertinent salmon-related issues, exchange perspectives, and foster constructive dialogue.
The collaborative spirit exhibited throughout the conference was truly commendable, as representatives from diverse groups united in their commitment to addressing the challenges facing Atlantic salmon within the Miramichi watershed. This convergence of minds not only facilitated the sharing of invaluable insights and best practices but also laid the groundwork for forging meaningful partnerships aimed at achieving our shared conservation objectives.
The proceedings of The Plamu First Conference will be documented, with the overarching objective of formulating a comprehensive five-year management plan specifically tailored to the preservation and enhancement of Atlantic salmon populations in the Miramichi region. This strategic roadmap will serve as a cornerstone in our collective efforts to safeguard this iconic species for future generations.
I wish to express my profound appreciation to the North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council for their exemplary leadership in convening this transformative event. I am confident that the collaborative endeavors initiated at The Plamu First Conference will yield enduring benefits for the ecological integrity and socio-economic vitality of the Miramichi watershed.
As many of you are aware, our Annual General Meeting is scheduled for May 4th in Boiestown, accompanied by the notorious IceBreaker dinner. This event serves as a cornerstone of our fundraising efforts, and I extend my deepest appreciation to the dinner committee for their unwavering dedication. Limited tickets remain available, and I encourage those interested to contact the MSA office to secure a spot on the cancellation list.
Furthermore, the MSA is delighted to announce our return to hosting an event in Moncton on May 23rd. Departing from our traditional format, we will be hosting a vibrant happy hour featuring delectable treats, a silent auction, and an enticing raffle for exciting prizes. This year we are honouring the Dieppe Fly Tying Club who are celebrating their 25th anniversary. It promises to be an engaging occasion to connect with fellow enthusiasts and engage in meaningful discussions on salmon conservation while regaling in the timeless tradition of fishing tales.
Lastly, the draw date for our 'Spring into the Season' raffle, offering a trip for four to Rocky Bend, is swiftly approaching. If you have not yet purchased a ticket, I encourage you to do so. This generous contribution by MSA director Grant Brenan underscores the spirit of philanthropy within our community, and we extend our gratitude to Grant for his support.
Thank you all for your continued dedication to the preservation of our beloved Miramichi watershed. Together, we will continue to strive towards a sustainable future for generations to come.
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