Northwest River Atlantic Salmon Stewardship

Northwest River is found near the eastern boundary of Terra Nova National Park. As a portion of the river lies within the Park, it is co-managed by Parks Canada and DFO (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). To monitor salmon numbers in the river, Parks Canada established a counting fence in 1995. Researchers found that salmon numbers were in general decline between 1995 and 2002 despite the closure of the recreational and commercial fisheries. In 2001, only 152 salmon returned to the Northwest. Illegal fishing was having some impact, but the extent was unknown. In order to ensure the long term survival of the river, a new approach was required.

The Northwest River Atlantic Salmon Working Group in was established in 2002 with representatives from Parks Canada, DFO and local communities to implement a community stewardship program in an effort to conserve and protect the Atlantic Salmon in Northwest River. The Working Group recommended a retention fishery if in-season reviews indicated the spawning target would be achieved. The Working Group felt that the increase in community stewardship and subsequent reduction in illegal fishing would more than offset the salmon that were taken in the recreational fishery.

To ensure salmon spawning requirements were met, the Working Group established a threshold system. The river would only open if the returns reached specified thresholds by specific dates. During both 2003 and 2004, a target threshold was met and the fishery was opened. Community residents self-policed themselves to ensure proper angling conduct.

Salmon returns during 2003 and 2004 exceeded everyone’s expectations. The total return for the 2003 season was 1285, the best count since the fence had been in operation. In 2004, we achieved an even greater return, 1472 salmon.

The support of the Heritage Foundation for Terra Nova National Park has been an integral part of this project’s success. Heritage Foundation staff work at the counting fence and assist in the administration of the fishery.

Electrofishing Poster - Terra Nova National Park 2006

Reducing highway impacts on fish passage in Terra Nova National Park

Reducing highway impacts on fish passage in Terra Nova National Park - ASFWB 2006

Measures of salmonid population performance in relation to habitat in eastern Newfoundland streams - ASFWB 2006

Fisheries Research Report for Ponds in TNNP 1997-2003

Fish passage and stream habitat restoration in TNNP highway culverts 2005