Shae Denny expresses astonishment at the global recognition of local conservation endeavors in Cape Breton. Denny, an aquatic programs manager at the Unama’ki Institute of Natural Resources, emphasizes the significance of being stewards of the land for generations.
The United Nations recently acknowledged a seven-year collaborative initiative involving scientists, Indigenous communities, and local volunteers to revive the Atlantic salmon population in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. This Parks Canada project, dubbed Respectful Returns, is a joint effort with Indigenous and local groups aimed at revitalizing rivers and streams nationwide.
Denny, a member of the Eskasoni First Nation, highlights the community’s early recognition of declining salmon numbers in the 1950s, leading to the establishment of a salmon advisory committee. This collaborative approach, involving various stakeholders, showcases the holistic nature of conservation and management efforts.
The restoration program within Cape Breton Highlands National Park commenced in 2019 after witnessing drastic declines in salmon populations over the years. By capturing juvenile salmon from specific rivers and nurturing them until maturity for release back into the wild, the program successfully increased the number of spawning salmon to meet conservation targets after three decades.
While Parks Canada accepted the prestigious World Restoration Flagship distinction in December, a ceremony was held on July 16 to honor key contributors in Cape Breton. Partners such as the Unama’ki Institute of Natural Resources, the Atlantic Salmon Federation, and local salmon associations were recognized for their crucial roles in the project’s success.
Bill Haley, vice-president of the Margaree Salmon Association, highlighted the collaborative efforts that led to this global recognition, underscoring the sense of pride in being part of such impactful work.
Overall, the restoration project in Cape Breton serves as a testament to effective collaboration and dedicated efforts towards ecosystem preservation and sustainability.