In recent years, the Margaree Salmon Association in northern Cape Breton has been utilizing electrofishing to survey fish populations in the Margaree River. This method involves using an electric current to temporarily stun fish, allowing crews to safely capture, measure, and identify them before releasing them back into the river.
Michael Fabiano, the conservation co-ordinator for the association, explained that electrofishing operations take place from May to late September. Despite processing thousands of fish each season, the mortality rate remains at a low two percent. Fabiano emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety of the fish, refraining from electrofishing in high water temperatures.
To ensure the well-being of both the fish and crew members, the electric current is adjusted to momentarily immobilize the fish. Crews wear protective gear like heavy rubber gloves and chest waders to minimize the risks associated with working with electricity in water. Notably, no crew members have experienced serious shocks during Fabiano’s tenure with the group.
Throughout the 120-kilometre river, crews conduct surveys to pinpoint the most productive streams and evaluate the overall health of the fish population. The catch primarily consists of trout and Atlantic salmon, with occasional sightings of eels and lampreys. This season, approximately 1,800 fish have been caught and released across nine streams, showing a decline compared to the previous year.
Paul MacNeil, the association’s president, highlighted the increased focus on scientific research due to reduced data collection efforts by Fisheries and Oceans Canada in the past five years. The association, established in 1982, aims to gather reliable data to monitor river health amidst changing climate conditions. To bridge the data gap, the association collaborated with the Chéticamp River Salmon Association to acquire electrofishing equipment, complementing fish counting activities in the river.
MacNeil emphasized the accuracy of electrofishing in capturing juvenile fish populations in specific areas, providing valuable data for conservation efforts. This method supplements traditional fish counting techniques and offers a more comprehensive understanding of the river ecosystem.