The Ripple Effects of Atlantic Salmon Conservation

March 26, 2020

For the past 20 years, Atlantic salmon have been protected in Maine. Although the population is still critically endangered, science and management efforts to support salmon recovery have also benefited the entire ecosystem and local community.

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New England/Mid-Atlantic

Maine Department of Marine Resources, Casey Clark

We highlight examples of the "ripple effects" and benefits of Atlantic Salmon conservation for the environment and community.

Ecosystem

This image is depicted in green colors and illustrates the science behind salmon conservation. It highlights examples of the “ripple effects” and benefits for the environment with an illustration of expanding circles over a river connected to the ocean with an Atlantic salmon at the center. The salmon swims downstream to the right surrounded by a healthy ecosystem represented by fish eggs, smaller salmon, lamprey, dragonflies, an eel, and schooling rainbow smelt and river herring. In the background is an os — The Ripple Effects of Atlantic Salmon Conservation on ecosystems.

When dams are removed and rivers are reconnected to the ocean, the freshwater habitat improves and ecosystems become more resilient. Removing dams and restoring watersheds also allows fish to reach their spawning grounds and access fresh and saltwater habitats to increase fish populations and build more resilient ecosystems.

Community

When watersheds are restored, it opens up space and opportunities for recreation such as nature walks and watersports. Restored wetlands provide habitat and coastal protection from flood hazards. Restoring rivers and natural resources also increases cultural value, community pride, and celebrates fishing resources with an increased diversity in fish populations and fishery revenue.

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Change in Command Ceremony Ushers in New Officer in Charge of the Gloria Michelle

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New England/Mid-Atlantic

In the foreground, two men in light colored uniforms stand at attention while between them a woman in a colorful dress focuses on a small pin in her hands. In the background, a blonde woman is behind a podium, and a man in a dark jacket is seated at the far right.

Laurie Creed pins her son, Lt. Jr. Grade Alexander Creed, as he takes command of the R/V Gloria Michelle. Credit: NOAA Fisheries

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NOAA Corps Officer Enjoys Experience in All Aspects of NOAA Missions

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New England/Mid-Atlantic

Alex Creed checking dive gear in bow of boat.

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VanDine Takes the Helm of the Research Vessel Gloria Michelle

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New England/Mid-Atlantic

Benjamin VanDine kayaking in icy waters.

Last updated by Northeast Fisheries Science Center on August 23, 2021

Habitat Restoration Ecosystems

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Restored shoreline along Lake St. Clair at Brandenburg Park. Credit: NOAA Fisheries.

Video

Brandenburg Park Habitat Restoration

New England/Mid-Atlantic

Color image taken during daylight from the upper deck of a research vessel, facing toward the rear of the vessel as it sails through a canal. Land is visible on each side of the canal, and the ship leaves a wake in the water. Two steel framed bridges are in the image. The ship has just passed under the bridge used by vehicles. The railroad bridge is in the distance.

View over the stern of the NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow, exiting the Cape Cod Canal headed east toward Provincetown, Mass. at the beginning of Leg 3 of the 2021 Northeast Fisheries Science Center fall bottom trawl survey. The two bridges spanning the canal are used by trains (background) and vehicle traffic (foreground). Credit: NOAA Fisheries/Katelyn Depot.

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