Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar), inner Bay of Fundy population in Canada: Report on the progress of recovery strategy implementation for the period 2010 to 2015

Official title: Report on the Progress of Recovery Strategy Implementation for the Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar), inner Bay of Fundy Population in Canada for the Period 2010 to 2015

Species at Risk Act
Recovery strategy series

Atlantic Salmon (inner Bay of Fundy population)

Document information

Recommended citation: Fisheries and Oceans Canada. 2021. Report on the Progress of Recovery Strategy Implementation for the Atlantic Salmon ( Salmo salar), inner Bay of Fundy population, in Canada for the Period 2010 to 2015. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy Report Series. Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ottawa. iv + 76 pp.

For copies of the progress report, or for additional information on species at risk, including Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) status reports, recovery strategies, residence descriptions, action plans, and other related recovery documents, please visit the Species at Risk Public Registry.

Cover illustration: Jeffrey C. Domm

Également disponible en français sous le titre:
« Rapport sur les progrès de mise en œuvre de la stratégie de rétablissement pour le saumon atlantique (Salmo salar), population de l’intérieur de la baie de Fundy au Canada, pour la période de 2010 à 2015 »

ISBN 978-0-660-36186-4

Catalogue no. En3-4/67-1-2020E-PDF

Content (excluding the illustrations) may be used without permission, with appropriate credit to the source.

Preface

The federal, provincial, and territorial government signatories under the Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk (1996) agreed to establish complementary legislation and programs that provide for effective protection of species at risk throughout Canada. Under Section 46 of the Species at Risk Act (S.C. 2002, c.29) (SARA) the competent ministers are responsible for reporting on the implementation of the recovery strategy for a species at risk, and on the progress towards meeting its objectives within five years of the date when the recovery strategy was placed on the Species at Risk Public Registry and in every subsequent five-year period, until its objectives have been achieved or the species’ recovery is no longer feasible.

Reporting on the progress of recovery strategy implementation requires reporting on the collective efforts of the competent minister(s), provincial and territorial governments and all other parties involved in conducting activities that contribute to the species’ recovery. Recovery strategies identify broad strategies and approaches that will provide the best chance of recovering species at risk. Some of the identified strategies and approaches are sequential to the progress or completion of others and not all may be undertaken or show significant progress during the time frame of a report on the progress of recovery strategy implementation (progress report).

The Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and the Minister responsible for the Parks Canada Agency (PCA), namely the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, are the competent ministers under SARA for the Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population (iBoF Salmon) and have prepared this progress report.

As stated in the preamble to SARA, success in the recovery of species at risk depends on the commitment and cooperation of many different constituencies that will be involved in implementing the directions set out in the recovery strategy and will not be achieved by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) and PCA, or any other jurisdiction alone. The cost of conserving species at risk is shared amongst different constituencies. All Canadians are invited to join in supporting and implementing the recovery strategy for the iBoF Salmon, for the benefit of the species and Canadian society as a whole.

Acknowledgments

This progress report was prepared by DFO in collaboration with the species’ co-lead PCA. To the extent possible, this progress report has also been prepared with inputs from the many partners in the recovery of iBoF Salmon, including the multi-interest membership of the Inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon Conservation and Recovery Team (appendix A). DFO would like to express its appreciation to all individuals and organizations that have made valuable contributions to the recovery of the iBoF Salmon.

Executive summary

The Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population (iBoF Salmon), was listed as endangered under the Species at Risk Act (SARA) in June 2003. A recovery strategy for this population was finalized and published on the Species at Risk Public Registry in May 2010. A final action plan was published in September 2019, and an amended recovery strategy is in preparation.

The recovery strategy outlines the threats to the species in freshwater and the marine and estuarine environments. Threats in the marine and estuarine environment include: interactions with farmed and hatchery salmon, ecological community shifts, environmental shifts, fisheries, and depressed population phenomena. Threats in the freshwater environment include: changes in environmental conditions, contaminants, barriers to fish passage, and depressed population phenomena.

The overall recovery goal for iBoF Salmon is “to re-establish wild, self-sustaining populations as required to conserve the genetic characteristics of the remaining anadromous iBoF Atlantic Salmon”. Both short- (5-year) and long-term targets (population and distribution objectives) were set for the iBoF Salmon. The short-term target is set at the conservation levels^{Footnote 1} within the ten rivers that contributed to the Live Gene Bank (LGB) program (namely the Gaspereau, Stewiacke, Debert, Folly, Great Village, Portapique, Economy, Upper Salmon, Point Wolfe and Big Salmon rivers). The long-term target, should marine survival improve, is defined as the conservation levels within an additional set of nine rivers that are important for long-term population self-sustainability, namely the Shubenacadie, Salmon, North, Bass, Chiganois, Harrington, Apple, Maccan and Petitcodiac rivers. Five recovery objectives were developed to support the realization of the overall recovery goal.

This report outlines activities undertaken between May 2010 and May 2015 in support of these recovery objectives. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), in collaboration with Parks Canada Agency (PCA), which is responsible for the species within Fundy National Park in New Brunswick, have been working to advance the implementation of the recovery strategy in many ways. These efforts continue to be strongly supported and complemented by the efforts of partners, including member organizations of the iBoF Salmon Recovery Team.

During this reporting period, much progress was made toward implementing the iBoF Salmon recovery strategy including: the ongoing activities of the LGB program; research and monitoring activities in priority rivers; the implementation of a new ‘High Ancestry’ LGB program and marine rearing project for Fundy National Park rivers; the development of a draft action plan; the protection of identified critical habitat and efforts towards the identification of estuarine and marine areas of iBoF Salmon critical habitat; the establishment of new partnerships; the ongoing implementation of species and habitat protection, restoration and management measures; stewardship activities in priority watersheds such as the Petitcodiac and Stewiacke rivers; and, progress in communication and outreach activities for both targeted and general audiences. Despite this progress, the overall recovery goal “to re-establish wild, self-sustaining populations as required to conserve the genetic characteristics of the remaining anadromous iBoF Atlantic Salmon” was not achieved. Remaining river populations remain at low abundances and are dependent on the LGB program for their continued survival. The work started and completed during this reporting period nonetheless built a strong foundation for ongoing research, recovery efforts, and successful management of this species.

Going forward, recovery efforts should continue to be focused on priority rivers, and the LGB program should continue as informed by research, monitoring, and program reviews. Work to better understand, identify, and mitigate threats to iBoF Salmon in estuaries and in the Bay of Fundy remain a priority. Some activities have already been planned for completion in the near future. All partners are encouraged to implement the actions identified in the action plan and to continue to explore new and innovative approaches and partnering arrangements for iBoF Salmon recovery. Groups are also encouraged to continue to participate in partner and multi-stakeholder forums and advisory committees to share the outcomes of their work, increase their knowledge base and capacity, and explore collaborative opportunities. DFO and PCA will continue to work with partners to implement the direction and actions set out in the recovery strategy and action plan.

1. Introduction

This progress report outlines the progress made towards meeting the objectives listed in the recovery strategy for the Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population (iBoF Salmon) for the five year period from May 2010 to May 2015. It is one in a series of documents for this species that are linked and should be taken into consideration together, including the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) species’ status reports (Amiro 2001, COSEWIC 2006, 2010), the science advisory report from the species’ recovery potential assessment (RPA) (DFO 2008), the species’ recovery strategy (DFO 2010), and action plan (DFO 2019).

Section 2 of this progress report reproduces or summarizes relevant information from the recovery strategy on the threats to the species and its habitat, population and distribution objectives (targets) for achieving its recovery, objectives to support the overall recovery goal and targets, and performance indicators to measure the progress towards recovery. For more details, readers should refer to the Recovery Strategy for the Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar), inner Bay of Fundy populations [PDF 4.6 MB] (DFO 2010). During the reporting period, many activities were undertaken to support the recovery objectives. These activities, along with an assessment of recovery progress according to the performance indicators, are presented in section 3. Section 4 provides a concluding statement about the implementation of the recovery strategy during the reporting period, as well as suggestions to guide future recovery efforts.

2. Background

2.1 COSEWIC species assessment information

The listing of the iBoF Salmon in 2003 led to the development and publication of the Recovery Strategy for the Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar), inner Bay of Fundy populations [PDF 4.6 MB](DFO 2010) in 2010 which was based on the information provided in the COSEWIC status report [PDF 1.9 KB] (COSEWIC 2006). This information has also been included in section 1.1 of the recovery strategy.

Date of assessment: April 2006

Common name (population): Atlantic salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population

Species’ common name: Black Redhorse

Scientific name: Salmo salar

Status: Endangered

Canadian occurrence: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Atlantic Ocean

Reason for designation: These salmon represent a unique Canadian endemic; their entire biological distribution exists within Canada. Adult numbers are estimated to have declined by more than 95% in 30 years, and most rivers no longer have either adults or juveniles. In 2003, fewer than 100 adults are estimated to have returned to the 32 rivers known to have historically contained the species. There is no likelihood of rescue, as neighbouring regions harbour severely depressed, genetically dissimilar populations. The reasons for the collapse in adult abundances are not well understood. Reduced survival from smolt to adulthood in marine waters is thought to be a key factor. There are many possible causes of this increased mortality, including ecological community shifts; ecological/genetic interactions with farmed and hatchery Atlantic salmon; environmental shifts; and fisheries (illegal or incidental catch). Threats to the species in the freshwater environment are thought to be historical and contemporary in nature. Historical threats include loss and degradation of habitat (attributable to the construction of barriers to migration and logging); contemporary threats may include interbreeding with escaped farmed fish and environmental change (warmer temperatures, contaminants).

Status history: Designated endangered in May 2001. Status re-examined and confirmed in April 2006.

In 2010, COSEWIC re-examined and confirmed the status of the iBoF Salmon as endangered (COSEWIC 2010).

2.2. Distribution

The entire iBoF Salmon designatable unit (DU) exists within eastern Canada. It includes all rivers draining into the Bay of Fundy starting with the Mispec River in New Brunswick (NB) (the first river northeast of the Saint John River), and extending around the Bay to the Pereaux River in Nova Scotia (NS) (the first river northeast of the Annapolis River) (COSEWIC 2006, 2010). The extent of marine occupancy and occurrence includes the Bay of Fundy and to some extent outlying oceanic waters in the Gulf of Maine (COSEWIC 2006, 2010). The location of the iBoF Salmon DU, including its 50 named rivers, are displayed in figure 1 below. Two of these watersheds, the Upper Salmon and Point Wolfe, are primarily contained within Fundy National Park, NB. Rivers identified as containing critical habitat are coloured in red. Activities supporting iBoF Salmon recovery have been undertaken on several of these rivers in both NB and NS during this reporting period and are described in detail in table 4.

Location of the inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon designatable unit (DU) and approximate location of the 50 named rivers in the DU. Red denotes rivers containing critical habitat. — Figure 1 displays the location of the iBoF Salmon DU, including its 50 named rivers. Critical habitat for iBoF Salmon is identified in the following ten rivers; Gaspereau, Stewiacke, Debert, Folly, Great Village, Portapique, Economy, Upper Salmon, Pointe Wolfe, Big Salmon. Two rivers (Upper Salmon, Pointe Wolfe) are located within Fundy National Park.

Long description

Figure 1 is titled “Location of the inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon designatable unit (DU) and approximate location of the 50 named rivers in the DU. Red denotes rivers containing critical habitat. The darker green parcel represents the location of Fundy National Park.” This figure displays the location of the iBoF Salmon DU, including its 50 named rivers. Rivers identified as containing critical habitat are coloured in red. The location of Fundy National Park is represented by a darker green parcel.

2.3. Threats

This section summarizes the information, found in the recovery strategy, on threats to survival and recovery of the iBoF Salmon and threats to its critical habitat.

2.3.1. Threats to inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon

Tables 1a and 1b summarize the population-level threats to the iBoF Salmon in freshwater and marine environments respectively. Please refer to section 1.7 of the recovery strategy for more information on these threats.

Table 1a. Summary of the threats identified for the Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population, in the freshwater environment as provided in the recovery strategy (DFO 2010). The threats are not presented in order of priority.
Threat	Description
Changes in environmental conditions	Habitat in spawning rivers is threatened by the effects of agriculture, urbanization, poor forestry practices, mining, road building and other factors related to human activities. Although freshwater habitat quality is believed to be sufficient to maintain populations despite ongoing degradation, the overall impacts of habitat degradation, low pH and temperature increases on Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population (iBoF Salmon) have not been quantified.
Contaminants	Pesticides and environmental contaminants may have an effect on the survival of iBoF Salmon in freshwater. Agricultural activities occur in many iBoF watersheds resulting in runoff of nutrients and pesticides. IBoF Salmon survival may be influenced by the levels of pesticides and other contaminants (for example, heavy metals, sewage) being input into the system.
Barriers to fish passage	A wide range of ecological effects on rivers, including effects on habitat quality and quantity are believed to be caused by barriers to fish passage. In the iBoF, causeway-dam type tidal barriers on the Petitcodiac^{Footnote 2}, Shepody, Avon, Great Village, Chiganois and Parrsboro rivers are among the most substantial barriers in estuaries. Watercourse crossings in freshwater (for example, improper design, installation, or maintenance of culverts) are a concern in freshwater.
Depressed population phenomena	Population genetic theory predicts that smaller populations are more likely to disappear than larger populations because there is little variability in their genetic makeup thereby rendering them less able to respond to environmental change and increasing susceptibility to inbreeding depression.

Table 1b. Summary of the threats identified for the Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population, in the marine and estuarine environment as provided in the recovery strategy (DFO 2010). The threats are not presented in order of priority.
Threat	Description
Aquaculture: Interactions with farmed and hatchery salmon	There is concern that the development of the salmon farming industry has or could lead to a number of impacts on wild salmon, including genetic interactions with escapees leading to loss of fitness in wild salmon, competition with escapees for food, parasite and disease outbreaks transferred to wild migrating salmon, and modified predator interactions.
Ecological community shifts	Ecological changes in the Bay of Fundy or other marine habitat areas used by Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population (iBoF Salmon) could potentially influence salmon survival at sea. Although such changes are not well documented, these could include increased predator abundance, and lack of or reduced forage species.
Environmental shifts	Changing environmental conditions in the ocean may impact salmon migration, growth, and survival. Some of these influencing conditions may be linked to temperature shifts and depressing ocean productivity.
Fisheries	There have been no directed Aboriginal, commercial, or recreational fisheries for iBoF Salmon since 1990. However small amounts of by-catch occur in existing licensed fisheries in the Bay of Fundy area (for example, gaspereau, shad, herring, and mackerel nets and/or weirs). There is also the potential for salmon by-catch in the recreational fishery for other species such as Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis).
Depressed population phenomena	It has been suggested that schooling behavior acts as a predator defense for some marine fishes and reduces predation risk. It is not known whether iBoF Salmon populations historically formed schools, but it has been suggested that there may currently be a lack of iBoF Salmon recruits to form effective schools.

2.3.2. Threats to critical habitat

Critical habitat for the iBoF Salmon has been identified, to the extent possible, in section 2.5 of the recovery strategy. Table 2 provides examples of activities that are likely to result in the destruction of the identified critical habitat (that is, threats to critical habitat). This list of activities is neither exhaustive nor exclusive, and is based on the relevant threats to habitat described in the recovery strategy. For more details on the activities likely to result in the destruction of the identified critical habitat, please refer to the recovery strategy.

Table 2. Threats to critical habitat of the Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population, adapted from the recovery strategy (DFO 2010).
Threat	Activities	Effect-pathway
Infilling riffles, runs or pools	In-water placement of materials or structures (for example, for the construction of watercourse crossings such as bridges, causeways, pipelines).	Loss of habitat features that support the functions for Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population (iBoF Salmon) in that area.
Barriers to fish passage	In-water installation of barriers without fish passage (for example, dams or culverts).	Loss of access to upstream habitat.
Persistently dewatering a watercourse	Significant water extraction or impoundment.	Loss of the habitat’s ability to serve its biological function for iBoF Salmon or loss of connectivity between areas of critical habitat.
Persistent and excessive release of deleterious substances	Any land-based activity that changes the general water quality requirements of the habitat (such as pH, suspended solids, temperature) for sufficient frequency, duration and concentration.	Degradation of water quality which would lead to a loss of the habitat’s ability to serve its biological function for iBoF Salmon.

2.4. Recovery

The following sections of the progress report summarize the information found in the recovery strategy (DFO 2010) on the recovery goals and objectives that are necessary for the recovery of iBoF Salmon and on the performance indicators that were established to provide a way to define and measure progress towards achieving the outlined objectives.

2.4.1. Recovery goal and objectives

Section 2.2 of the recovery strategy (DFO 2010) identifies the following recovery goal and recovery targets necessary for the recovery of the species.

The overall recovery goal for iBoF Salmon is to:

re-establish wild, self-sustaining populations as required to conserve the genetic characteristics of the remaining anadromous iBoF Atlantic Salmon

Both short-term (5-year) and long-term targets (population and distribution objectives) are set in the recovery strategy. The short term target is set as the conservation levels^{Footnote 3} within the ten rivers that contributed to the Live Gene Bank (LGB) program (the Gaspereau, Stewiacke, Debert, Folly, Great Village, Portapique, Economy, Upper Salmon, Point Wolfe and Big Salmon rivers). The long-term target is defined as the conservation levels within an additional set of nine rivers that are important for long-term population self-sustainability (the Shubenacadie, Salmon, North, Bass, Chiganois, Harrington, Apple, Maccan and Petitcodiac rivers). This long-term target is provided should marine survival increase such that more widespread recovery becomes feasible.

DFO conducts annual monitoring activities for iBoF Salmon in two of the rivers identified in the short-term target: the Big Salmon River in NB, and the Gaspereau River in NS. These rivers serve as index rivers for evaluating the status of the DU.

Five recovery objectives, outlined in table 3 below, were developed to support the realization of the overall recovery goal.

2.4.2. Performance indicators

Section 2.4 of the recovery strategy (DFO 2010) includes the following performance indicators to define and measure progress toward achieving the recovery objectives. These performance indicators are reproduced in table 3 below. Some of these indicators may not be measurable within the time frame covered in this progress report. In such cases, the implementation of recovery activities and critical habitat studies will help report on progress.

Table 3. Recovery objectives and corresponding performance indicators for the Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population, reproduced from the recovery strategy (DFO 2010). The performance indicators are numbered to allow for easy cross-referencing within this report, and do not reflect prioritization.
Recovery objective	Performance indicator
Conserve Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population (iBoF Salmon) genetic characteristics and re-establish self-sustaining populations to iBoF rivers	Number of river populations persisting, with and without Live Gene Bank (LGB) support Success in maintaining a full complement of year-classes, representative of the Chignecto Bay and Minas Basin (including Gaspereau River) populations in the LGB Confirmation that loss of genetic diversity by the populations in the wild and in captivity relative to the diversity noted in the founder collection has been minimized Loss of adaptive traits by inbreeding / outbreeding depression or unintentional loss of distinct populations within a river has been mitigated
Identify and remedy anthropogenic threats limiting survival and/or recovery of iBoF Salmon in the marine environment	Extent that our understanding of ocean distribution and habitat use by iBoF Salmon has increased Contribution of the research program towards the identification of threats that could be preventing or limiting recovery Success of mitigative measures for overcoming identified threats
Identify and remedy anthropogenic threats limiting survival and/or recovery of iBoF Salmon in the freshwater environment	Extent and status of the habitat inventory (that is, amount, location, and condition of freshwater habitat in all iBoF rivers) Extent to which habitat quality, in terms of salmon production capabilities, has been assessed Success of mitigative measures for overcoming identified threats Confirmation that the quality and quantity of habitat (freshwater and marine) has been maintained
Assess population status, sustainability, and recovery feasibility	Annual status of populations where information is available Non-genetic and non-habitat related threats identified Non-genetic and non-habitat related threats reduced and mitigated Recovery strategy success, progress towards attaining self-sustainable populations, and the feasibility of recovery have been reviewed as indicated in the strategy
Communicate and increase the general awareness of the status and recovery of iBoF Salmon	Governments, Indigenous peoples, non-government and conservation organizations, other stakeholders, industry, and the general public are involved in the planning and conduct of recovery initiatives Relevant partners and stakeholders are aware of how their actions potentially affect iBoF Salmon Relevant partners and stakeholders are clear on how the Species at Risk Act is being used to protect iBoF Salmon

3. Progress towards recovery

Activities undertaken to support the recovery of iBoF Salmon are reported in section 3.1. Section 3.2 reports on progress towards completing the activities identified in the schedule of studies to identify critical habitat. Section 3.3 reports on progress toward meeting the performance indicators and other commitments (for example, the action plan and Critical Habitat Order) identified in the recovery strategy and information obtained through implementing the recovery strategy.

3.1. Activities supporting recovery

Table 4 outlines the recovery activities that have been initiated or completed during the five year period since the recovery strategy was published as final (May 2010 to May 2015). These activities are organized into four categories: (1) research and monitoring; (2) stewardship^{Footnote 4}; (3) management and protection; and (4) communication, outreach, and education. These categories were chosen for grouping purposes only, and do not correspond directly to specific objectives or approaches in the recovery strategy. Within each sub-table, the recovery activities are organized thematically. For each activity, the associated recovery objective(s) and relevant performance indicator(s) are provided in the last column of table 4.

The following is a list of acronyms used in table 4 to describe the organizations involved in iBoF Salmon recovery activities.

ACFFA: Atlantic Canada Fish Farmers Association
AMEC: AMEC Environment and Infrastructure
ASF: Atlantic Salmon Federation
CARP: Clean Annapolis River Project
CBC: Canadian Broadcasting Corporation
CMM-MCG: Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq, Mi’kmaw Conservation Group
COSEWIC: Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife In Canada
CSA: Cobequid Salmon Association
DFO: Fisheries and Oceans Canada
ECCC: Environment and Climate Change Canada
FCRS: Friends of the Cornwallis River Society
FFFN: Fort Folly First Nation
FMF: Fundy Model Forest
FNP: Fundy National Park
HC: Health Canada
MAPC: Maritime Aboriginal Peoples Council
MAPS: Mi'kma'ki All Points Services Inc.
NBDAAF: New Brunswick Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries
NBDELG: New Brunswick Department of Environment and Local Government
NBDERD: New Brunswick Department of Energy and Resource Development
NBSC: New Brunswick Salmon Council
NBDTI: New Brunswick Department of Transportation and Infrastructure
NBWF: New Brunswick Wildlife Federation
NSDFA: Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture
NSL&F: Nova Scotia Department of Lands and Forestry (formerly Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources)
NSE: Nova Scotia Environment
NSPI: Nova Scotia Power Incorporated
NSSA: Nova Scotia Salmon Association
PCA: Parks Canada Agency
PFRC: Petitcodiac Fish Recovery Coalition
PSC: Petitcodiac Sportsman’s Club
PWA: Petitcodiac Watershed Alliance
RCMP: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
SAA: Southeastern Anglers Association
SMU: St. Mary’s University
SPK: Sentinelle Petitcodiac Riverkeeper
U de M: U de M Université de Moncton
UNESCO: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
VDD: Veterinary Drugs Directorate

Table 4. Recovery activities for Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population, started or completed during May 2010 to May 2015, organized into four categories: (1) research and monitoring; (2) stewardship; (3) management and protection; and (4) communication, outreach and education. Recovery activities within each category are presented in sub-tables and organized thematically. Activity lead(s) are identified in bold. Other participants in a recovery activity are listed in alphabetical order.

Table 4.1 Research and monitoring recovery activities for Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population, during the May 2010 to May 2015 period, unless otherwise noted.
#	Recovery activity	Description and results	Recovery objective(s)	Performance indicator(s)	Participants
1.1	Annual monitoring and assessment of Big Salmon River and Gaspereau River populations	On the Big Salmon River, New Brunswick (NB), annual monitoring and assessments were undertaken by DFO in collaboration with partners to estimate the number of smolt exiting the river and the adult return rate. On the Gaspereau River, Nova Scotia (NS), annual monitoring of smolt emigration, periodic monitoring of kelt (post-spawned salmon) emigration (when possible), and annual assessments of adult returns were undertaken. The fish intercepted during these activities were also sub-sampled for genetic analysis as part of the Live Gene Bank (LGB) program reported on further below in recovery activity 3.1. Key results: Big Salmon River: mean adult return estimate for the 2010 to 2014 period was 56 fish, showing no significant improvement in marine survival since the 2008 Recovery Potential Assessment Big Salmon River: mean annual smolt abundance estimate for 2010 to 2014 period was 12,680 Gaspereau River: mean adult return estimate for 2010 to 2014 period was 6 fish (range from 2 to 13 fish) Gaspereau River: mean annual smolt abundance estimate for 2010 to 2014 period was 3,843	4	12	DFO, FFFN, NSPI
1.2	Annual recovery operations in Fundy National Park rivers: Point Wolfe River and Upper Salmon River	PCA at FNP and its partners continued to carry out annual collections (since 2002), releases, and monitoring of Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy populations (iBoF Salmon) in the Point Wolfe and Upper Salmon rivers. Annual monitoring of emigrating smolts using rotary screw traps and adult returns by way of snorkel surveys were carried out to assess the efficacy of recovery actions such as the various release strategies. Parr are also collected by way of electrofishing as part of the Point Wolfe River High Ancestry (PWRHA) program (see recovery activity 3.3). Key results: Releases: Fry: ~3000 to 76,000 unfed fry, produced from the PWRHA program were released annually to FNP rivers in 2012 to 2014 Adults: 250 to 1,000 native FNP stock, originally collected as smolts and raised in conservation marine net pens, were released annually (except in 2013 and 2014) as adults to FNP rivers (see recovery activity 1.8) Monitoring: Mean adult return estimates over the reporting period were 4 on the Point Wolfe River and 14 on the Upper Salmon River 2012 adult returns of 10 on the Point Wolfe River and 42 on the Upper Salmon River marked 20 year highs Point Wolfe and Upper Salmon River returns in 2012 were traced back to the adult releases in 2011 Reference: PCA 2015.	4	12	PCA, DFO, FFFN
1.3	Smolt monitoring on the Stewiacke River	The CMM-MCG, in collaboration with DFO and the CSA, initiated a smolt monitoring project involving the operation of a rotary screw trap (smolt wheel) in the Stewiacke River in May 2014. This project aims to estimate annual smolt abundance and collect biological information including tissue samples and wild-exposed smolts (if required) for DFO’s iBoF Salmon LGB program. A reliable smolt estimate could not be obtained in 2014 with the data available, but smolts collected from operations in 2014 were included in the LGB program. Results from subsequent years will be reported on in the next 5-year progress report for iBoF Salmon. This recovery activity is linked to outreach recovery activity 4.6. A brief project description can be found on the MCG website.	1, 4	1, 2, 12, 15	CMM-MCG, DFO, CSA
1.4	Evaluation of wild and LGB-origin juvenile densities in the Stewiacke River	An extensive electrofishing survey on the Stewiacke River in 2013 undertaken by DFO and its partner the MCG investigated: 1) both wild and LGB-origin juvenile salmon densities, 2) whether wild spawning is occurring, and 3) the contribution of LGB spawners in relation to stocking practices. Preliminary key results are outlined below. Preliminary key results: 40 sites in 11 tributaries and two mainstem river sections were surveyed. Eleven sites were historical electrofishing sites 402 juveniles (fry and parr) were captured throughout the watershed with largest numbers in the Pembroke Brook (near juvenile LGB release sites) and in the main stem of the Stewiacke River Parentage genetic analyses on the juvenile salmon captured found that the vast majority (97%) traced back to LGB releases Results of grandparentage genetic analyses on juvenile samples are pending	1	1	DFO, CMM-MCG
1.5	Broadscale juvenile population monitoring focused on non-LGB rivers	A broadscale electrofishing survey was undertaken by DFO in collaboration with others in 2014 to compare the current status of non-LGB supported iBoF rivers to the previous broadscale electrofishing surveys conducted in the early 2000s (2000, 2002 and 2003). The 2014 survey aimed to look for the presence of juvenile salmon and was mainly focused on non-LGB supported rivers (these are rivers into which no salmon, of any life stage, had been stocked for at least the previous 4 years). Exceptions included the Great Village River, where juveniles and spent adults were released in 2010 to 2012, and Salmon River (Colchester), which was surveyed to evaluate spawning success of previous adult releases. Preliminary key results are outlined below. Key results: 34 iBoF rivers were surveyed Juvenile salmon (n=55) were captured in five non-LGB supported rivers: Irish, Mosher, Black, Mispec and Portapique Juvenile salmon (n=46) were also captured in the Great Village and Salmon River (Colchester) Genetic analysis of tissue samples is underway to determine parentage	1, 4	1, 12	DFO, PCA, FFFN
1.6	Species status reassessment by COSEWIC	In November 2010, COSEWIC assessed the status of all 16 Atlantic Salmon populations in eastern Canada, including a reassessment of the iBoF Salmon population. Based on the best available scientific information, the status of the iBoF Salmon remains ‘endangered’. Reference: COSEWIC 2010	4	N/A	COSEWIC
1.7	Research on the conservation of iBoF Salmon genetic characteristics	The primary activity used by DFO to conserve genetic diversity and fitness of iBoF Salmon has been the LGB program (see recovery activity 3.1). Research projects have been conducted to monitor the effects of the current LGB strategies on both the genetics and fitness (ability of a fish to survive and successfully reproduce) of the iBoF Salmon. Research themes undertaken and/or reported on from 2010 to 2015 include: monitoring for genetic effects of captive breeding; assessing the effects of captive rearing environments on genetics, fitness and behaviour; assessing the effects of wild-exposure on genetics, fitness and behaviour; and Evaluation of Stocking Strategies (see references below). Key results: Rearing juvenile salmon in complex environments (that is, environment of various substrate types and sizes) produces individuals that most closely resemble their wild counterparts in shape, appearance, and behaviour and results in higher survival rates than those raised in non-complex environments Inbreeding (mating of closely related salmon over one or several generations) and outbreeding (mating of salmon from different populations) may have detrimental effects on the persistence of small, isolated populations of salmon Mating plans that consider river of origin and family relatedness are successful in maintaining genetic variation and family persistence in LGBs Captive breeding can lead to rapid trait divergence as evidenced by changes in growth rate and size References: Samways and MacDonald 2013; Winkowski 2014; Houde et al. 2011; Rollinson et al. 2014; Wilke et al. 2015; O’Reilly and Kozfkay 2014; De Mestral et al. 2013; Evans et al. 2014.	1	3, 4	DFO, Academia (Dalhousie University, Memorial University)
1.8	Fundy National Park salmon marine rearing	In 2009, PCA, FNP began collaborating with the ACFFA on a salmon marine rearing project. The project involves capturing smolt from FNP rivers, rearing them to maturity at sea in conservation net pens, and returning mature adults to their spawning grounds to produce the next generation. Through salt water rearing, this project aims to produce large numbers of mature adult salmon that are expected to produce large numbers of highly fit offspring that have never been exposed to captivity. The production of large runs of highly fit wild smolt could affect the recovery potential for this population by addressing the limiting factors of low marine survival and depressed population phenomenon. As an initial step to determine the effects of captive exposure, FNP and partners collected smolts from the Upper Salmon River (USR) in 2010 and reared them in special marine pens developed by ACFFA. In 2011, the marine reared adults were divided and used in 2 separate experiments. One group was released into the inner Bay of Fundy approximately 15km from the USR to monitor homing rates. The second group was transferred to the Mactaquac biodiversity facility and artificially spawned to monitor the effect of early captive exposure on offspring survival. Following the experiment with the second group, adults were released at the mouth of the USR in fall 2011. In 2014, FNP and partners resumed marine-rearing wild smolts in addition to the ongoing LGB operations described in recovery activity 3.3. Key results: Experiment 1: No significant difference in the ability to home back to the USR for adults with reduced or extended early captive exposure Experiment 2: Reduced early captive exposure resulted in overall higher natural fitness. In 2012, 42 adult salmon were observed throughout the USR, all resulting from the 2011 releases In May 2015, smolts captured on both the USR and Point Wolfe River (mainly produced by 2012 spawning of released native adults) exceeded projections, which suggests encouraging levels of offspring fitness from egg to smolt stage from the released adults References: PCA 2015; Clarke et al. 2016	1, 2	1, 4, 7	PCA, ACFFA, FFFN
1.9	Petitcodiac River cross-breeding experiment	A research project (the ‘cross-breeding experiment’) was initiated by DFO in 2010 to evaluate the use of cross-bred salmon populations (that is, populations resulting from cross-breeding Salmon from various iBoF rivers (for example, Big Salmon River x Point Wolfe River crosses, Gaspereau River x Stewiacke River crosses) in iBoF Salmon recovery efforts by comparing marine and freshwater survival rates of cross-bred populations with those of single-river populations. The genetic diversity of the cross-bred populations would be expected to include a variety of local adaptations from the parent fish who originated from different iBoF rivers. Within this more diverse gene pool, characteristics may exist that are more suitable to successful survival and recovery in the current environment. The Petitcodiac River was the study site for this experiment since it no longer has a native Salmon population. Part of this project involved releasing progeny (that is, unfed fry) of cross-bred fish into the Pollet River, a tributary of the Petitcodiac River, in 2011 and 2012. Various monitoring activities were undertaken to evaluate the survival rates of the different cross-bred groups. Key results: Monitoring of emigrating smolts resulted in estimates of 1,925 smolts in 2013 and 1,600 smolts in 2014 A single small salmon was observed during 2014 monitoring of adult salmon returns Genetic analysis of smolt tissue samples collected in 2013 indicated that 51% were from NS crosses, 44% from NB crosses and 5% from 2009 releases of non-targeted LGB fish Analysis of the survival rates of unfed fry-to-smolt of the various crosses are pending Wild-exposed iBoF Salmon from the experiment were integrated into the NB portion of the LGB program	2, 3	7, 10	DFO, FFFN, AMEC
1.10	Restoration of iBoF Salmon to the Petitcodiac River	Annually since 2011, FFFN and their partners have undertaken efforts to restore the extirpated iBoF Salmon population to the historically important Petitcodiac River. This project involves the annual release with follow-up monitoring (via fish trap, smolt wheel, electrofishing, snorkel surveys, and redd surveys) of iBoF Salmon at strategic sites in the Little and Pollet tributaries of the Petitcodiac River. The salmon are “non-targeted” iBoF Salmon provided by DFO from its LGB program. Since 2014, the project has expanded to become part of the FFFN marine rearing project described in recovery activity 1.11. Key results: A total of 2,406 adults were released into the Little River during this reporting period (890 in 2012, 337 in 2013, 485 in 2014, and 475 in 2015) Over 367,000 unfed fry were released into the Pollet River from the cross-breeding experiment during this reporting period, with over 337,000 in 2011 and 37,000 in 2012 Monitoring results: Pollet River: 960 juvenile observations by electrofishing and smolt wheel or fyke net, 1 adult by snorkel survey, and 24 redd counts Little River: 131 juvenile observations by electrofishing and smolt wheel or fyke net, no adult observations during snorkel surveys, and 120 redd counts A project description can be found on the FFFN website.	1, 5	1, 4, 16	FFFN, DFO, ACFFA, PCA, PFRC
1.11	Petitcodiac River Salmon marine rearing	A Petitcodiac River salmon marine rearing project was initiated by FFFN in partnership with the ACFFA and others in 2014. The objectives and benefits of this project are analogous to PCA’s marine rearing project described in recovery activity 1.8, but instead occur in the Petitcodiac River using Petitcodiac River fish (that is, Petitcodiac River exposed fish captured as smolts as well as non-targeted Big Salmon River origin smolts from the LGB program). A range of monitoring and sampling techniques were used to capture juveniles in the Petitcodiac River for transfer to the net pens and a number of activities were subsequently undertaken to monitor the outcomes of this project. Monitoring of outcomes included activities targeting adult salmon such as snorkel surveys and redd counts. Key results: In 2014, the first group of smolts (120 fish) were transferred to the marine net pen site at Grand Manan Island In spring 2015 a second, smaller group (33 fish) was transferred to the marine net pen site No salmon were released back into the Petitcodiac River during this reporting period as the smolts would not be mature enough to release until the Fall of 2015 and 2016 respectively. Future outcomes of this project will be more fully reported on in the next progress report. A project description can be found on the FFFN website.	1, 2	1, 7	FFFN, FNP, ACFFA, Cooke Aquaculture, Huntsman Marine Science Centre
1.12	Marine habitat use and marine threat research	Research (for example, acoustic tagging studies on post-smolts, satellite tagging study on kelts) was undertaken by DFO to better understand iBoF Salmon marine habitat use and impacts in the marine environment on the persistence of iBoF Salmon including research to: determine population-specific ranges of oceanic migration (that is, where Atlantic Salmon from various populations migrate in the marine environment); and identify important marine and estuarine habitat areas, and the features and functions of these habitats for iBoF Salmon (see recovery activity 3.7). Key results: Most salmon from iBoF rivers are retained as post-smolts within the Bay of Fundy and northern Gulf of Maine up to and including October Post-smolt iBoF Salmon are coastal migrants that return to the Bay of Fundy for the summer Migrating iBoF Salmon kelts are restricted to coastal areas near home rivers Large pelagic predators (for example, Porbeagle Shark [Lamna nasus] and Bluefin Tuna [Thunnus thynnus]) are present in iBoF Salmon habitat and are linked to mortality of kelts (post-spawned adults) References: DFO 2013a; Lacroix 2012; Lacroix 2013; Lacroix 2014. The information gathered through this research also supported addressing the studies in the critical habitat schedule of studies outlined in the recovery strategy. These activities are more fully described in table 5.	2	5, 6	DFO, FFFN
1.13	Research and analysis of genetic interactions between wild and farmed Atlantic salmon	Research to better understand and minimize genetic interactions between wild and farmed Atlantic Salmon is being undertaken primarily by DFO and academic researchers along three themes: (1) assessing and improving escape management; (2) evaluating migration success of escaped farmed Atlantic salmon; and (3) evaluating spawning success, hybridization, and introgression. The overarching aquaculture management goal is to ensure that genetic interactions between wild and farmed Atlantic salmon do not disrupt evolutionary processes in wild Atlantic salmon populations in a manner that poses a conservation risk. Research is being undertaken to assess whether this goal is being met, to provide scientific information for designing better recapture strategies, and to identify farm-origin escaped salmon and hybrids in the wild. This research will help better understand any occurring genetic interactions. Information on this research can be found on DFO’s aquaculture science and research website and in this YouTube video.	2	6	DFO, Academia, industry, ASF
1.14	Presence / absence surveys for aquatic invasive species in NS iBoF rivers	NSDFA conducted surveys in the summers of 2012 for aquatic invasive species in several NS iBoF Salmon watersheds including the Folly River. Surveys were initiated in response to reports from the public or in follow-up to suspected presence of Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu) during research activities for other purposes. Key results: Confirmed establishment of Smallmouth Bass in Folly Lake (June 2012)	3	8	NSDFA
1.15	Water quality monitoring in Fundy National Park	FNP undertakes annual freshwater condition monitoring within their rivers (Point Wolfe and Upper Salmon) as part of PCA’s ongoing (since 2008) ecological monitoring program. Two of the condition monitoring measures include water quality index (WQI) and stream temperature. The WQI is calculated using 9 parameters (for example, pH, dissolved oxygen, suspended solids, etc.). There are 16 monitoring sites in 2nd order streams throughout the two watersheds in the park. From the data collected, a Thermal Regime Index (TRI) and WQI are calculated. This monitoring work has been ongoing over this reporting period. Key results: Overall mean summer stream temperatures and the TRI have been of good status over this reporting period The WQI for the streams in FNP is of good status, and the trend is stable over this reporting period Reference: PCA 2015.	3	11	PCA
1.16	Water quality monitoring in Big Salmon River	Since 2003, the NBDELG has monitored surface water temperature and quality at the mouth of the Big Salmon River, NB (above ‘Amateur Pool’ and the suspended bridge) using standard methodology. Samples are assessed using a Canadian standard Water Quality Index indicator. Trends for the various parameters on the Big Salmon River are available from 2003 to 2017 and analysed to 2015. Key results: Freshwater water quality at the Big Salmon River monitoring site (2010 to 2015) was rated as good Reference: Environment Canada 2015.	3	11	NBDELG
1.17	Environmental monitoring on the Petitcodiac River	Annual monitoring of environmental conditions and parameters has been conducted on the Petitcodiac River by AMEC and partners since the opening of the causeway gates in April 2010 (see recovery activity 3.18). Monitoring is focused on seven established Valued Ecosystem Components (VECs), including the physical characteristics of the Petitcodiac River and estuary, and fish passage. The fish passage monitoring is being undertaken by FFFN. Key results: Annual summaries of results of the Stage 2 follow-up monitoring are prepared by AMEC and published on the NBDTI website Fish passage monitoring reports are prepared annually by FFFN. A summary release of the 2010 to 2015 results is available on the FFFN Habitat Recovery website. More detailed reports are available upon request to info@ffhr.ca. Both of these report series note a trend toward the returning health of the Petitcodiac River and an increase in native fish species intercepted at the monitoring fish trap. Atlantic Salmon captures are believed to be the result of annual releases (see recovery activity 1.10).	3, 2	7, 9, 10, 11	AMEC, FFFN
1.18	Thermal refuge identification and mapping in the Petitcodiac River	This project, led by PWA, was undertaken in 2013 to guide future stewardship activities with the agricultural community in the Petitcodiac River. The project took a multi-species approach to gather information about the threats to, and limitations of, populations of species at risk including iBoF Salmon. The iBoF Salmon project component included a water level and temperature study in Pollett and Little rivers streams to identify and map thermal refuge areas. Key results: Stream data was collected and will be used to develop a long term watershed management plan for the recovery of iBoF Salmon in the Petitcodiac River Water quality sampling confirmed that the Pollett and Little rivers hold good quality habitat for Atlantic Salmon This recovery activity is linked to outreach recovery activity 4.16.	3, 5	9, 16, 17	PWA, Indigenous groups, agricultural producers, U de M for guidance and expertise related to the evaluation of thermal refuges.

Table 4.2. Stewardship recovery activities for Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population, during the May 2010 to May 2015 period.
#	Recovery activity	Description and results	Recovery objective(s)	Performance indicator(s)	Participants
2.1	Indigenous involvement and collaboration in iBoF Salmon recovery activities	Annually since 2010, this project led by FFFN has endeavored to involve Indigenous youth in Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population (iBoF Salmon) recovery activities carried out in four New Brunswick (NB) watersheds: the Big Salmon, Point Wolfe, Upper Salmon, and Petitcodiac. Youth received training and assisted DFO and PCA staff with recurring monitoring and data collection activities to assist in determining population estimates, measures of sea survival, and the evaluation of LGB program success. This recovery activity is linked to outreach recovery activity 4.7.	1, 5	16	FFFN,CMM-MCG, DFO, PCA
2.2	Little River (Stewiacke) restoration	This project, led by the CSA with partners and ongoing since 2007, focused on habitat assessment, enhancement, and monitoring activities on the Little River, Stewiacke to enhance iBoF Salmon spawning and rearing habitat. Key activities included identifying problem areas and undertaking habitat restoration, improvements, and protection at priority sites in progressively upstream sections of the Little River. This work resulted in the reduction and prevention of silt deposits from land-based activities. Water samples were also collected and analysed to monitor stream water quality in partnership with SMU Community-University Research Alliance (CURA) H2O. This contributed to the establishment of a water quality database for the river as part of a larger NS water quality database. This recovery activity is linked to outreach recovery activity 4.13.	3, 5	8, 9, 10, 16	CSA, DFO, NSL and F, Local landowners, SMU
2.3	Stewiacke River migration barrier remediation	This project, initiated by the CMM-MCG in 2014 and planned to continue in 2015, aims to address the threat of barriers to fish passage caused by the weathering or improper installation of culverts, or by debris build-up in culverts, by developing a Migration Barrier Remediation Plan for the Stewiacke River watershed. Project components include the identification/inventory, mapping, assessment, prioritization, and remediation of migration barriers in the Stewiacke River. The plan adopts established protocols and methodology and uses standard assessment tools for salmon passage. In 2014, 240 sites were visited, 150 culverts were assessed and 10 culverts were remediated. Assessment of water crossings and improvements at select sites resulted in improved access to additional habitat. This recovery activity is linked to outreach recovery activity 4.14. For a project description and report of 2014 activities, see MCG 2015.	3, 5	8, 10, 16	CMM-MCG
2.4	Planning and coordination of restoration projects on the Petitcodiac River	The PFRC is an alliance of ten organizations including conservation, angling, and First Nations groups that began working together following the opening of the Petitcodiac River causeway gates in the spring of 2010. The PFRC’s goal is to restore the native fish populations on the Petitcodiac River. As part of a long-term stewardship plan, the PFRC initiated and coordinated several discrete projects led by individual member organizations and aimed at supporting the overall Petitcodiac River stewardship plan. In this role, the PFRC was able to maximize collaborations and minimize the duplication of effort in various projects. These included projects to: promote and accelerate the re-establishment of native fish species; ensure the river and estuary fulfill the role of supporting habitat for the native aquatic species that have historically used the river; increase stewardship and conservation activities carried out by citizens throughout the Petitcodiac River watershed; and, raise public awareness and support of all fish and fisheries restoration efforts in the Petitcodiac River. See recovery activities 1.10, 1.18 and 2.5 to 2.7 for projects undertaken or ongoing since 2010.	5	16	PFRC, Groups include FFFN, PWA, SPK, NBWF, ASF, Moncton Fish and Game, PSC, NBDERD, Village of Petitcodiac, AMEC
2.5	Development and implementation of a Petitcodiac River watershed restoration framework	FFFN and its partners initiated this project to develop a collaborative and supported watershed restoration framework aimed at improving the overall health of the Petitcodiac River watershed and the species it traditionally supported. Ongoing since 2010, this project is planned to continue and expand in coming years. Components of this project include water quality and fish species monitoring (see recovery activity 1.17), development of an aquatic habitat connectivity inventory, and restoration planning and mitigation activities at priority sites. The project focuses on a few native species, including iBoF Salmon, and work is focused on the Little and Pollet River tributaries. Key results: A comprehensive stewardship restoration plan/framework for the Petitcodiac watershed was produced Culverts on the Pollet River were mapped A prioritized list of restoration needs within the watershed was produced based on a GIS map overlaying the presence of species at risk and identified threats Many site-specific restoration projects (for example, river cleanup, riparian re-vegetation, riverbank stabilization, restoration of habitat connectivity at priority sites) were completed leading to increased accessibility and quality of available habitat and the identification of sites for future restoration work This recovery activity is linked to outreach recovery activity 4.15. More information on their various projects can be found on the Fort Folly Habitat Recovery website.	3, 5	8, 9, 10, 16	FFFN, PWA, SPK, PFRC, DFO,
2.6	Petitcodiac River culvert assessment and fish passage restoration	A three-year effort was initiated by the PWA in 2014 to evaluate habitat connectivity, prioritize sites for restoration, and undertake restoration activities in the Petitcodiac River. This project (also known as the ‘Broken Brooks Project’) supports the PFRC’s efforts to restore iBoF Salmon to the Petitcodiac by providing passage for the migration of iBoF Salmon and other target fish species (for example, Brook Trout) to appropriate upstream habitat in the Pollet and Little rivers. Established protocols were used to assess culverts for fish passage. As well, historical and current water quality data were used to prioritize projects to improve water quality and habitat conservation in the Petitcodiac River. This work resulted in the mapping, identification, and assessment of culverts in the Pollet and Little river basins. Restoration plans were created and rehabilitation work was undertaken resulting in the restoration of fish passage to a 25 km long, 86 km² area of upstream habitat. A comprehensive culvert assessment report and a comprehensive water quality report were also produced. References: Culvert assessment report (PWA 2015a); Water quality report (PWA 2015b).	3, 5	8, 9, 10, 16	PWA, FFFN, CARP
2.7	Humphrey’s Brook dam removal and habitat restoration	Dam removal and habitat restoration occurred at Humphrey’s Brook, an urban tributary of the Petitcodiac River believed to have historically sustained iBoF Salmon. This effort was led by the SPK and began in 2011 with discussions, pre-removal dam monitoring, and the development of brook restoration plans. The dam was decommissioned and removed, and the brook returned to a free flowing state, in summer 2013. Restoration work continued in 2014; large debris was removed, native trees were planted, and a biotechnical bank stabilization structure was constructed in areas of severe erosion. Key results: Fish passage was restored to more than 9km of fish habitat in the Petitcodiac River Debris and sediment were cleared out of the stream and its banks Riparian areas were restored and stream banks were stabilized Community support and partnerships with the City of Moncton, local businesses, schools, collaborators, and volunteers were established More information on the project can be found Petitcodiac Riverkeepers website.	3, 5	10, 16	SPK, City of Moncton, Tri-Province Enterprise, FFFN
2.8	Culvert assessment and remediation on the Cornwallis River	A strategy to assess and remediate culverts that impede fish passage on the Cornwallis River, NS was developed and implemented by the FCRS. In 2013 and 2014, three existing culvert assessments were reviewed to select culverts that could be remediated. Remediation work was undertaken on six culverts in 2013, and a strategy to address remaining prioritized culverts was developed.	3, 5	8, 10, 16	FCRS

Table 4.3 Management and Protection recovery activities for Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population, during the May 2010 to May 2015 period.
#	Recovery activity	Description and results	Recovery objective(s)	Performance indicator(s)	Participants
3.1	Live Gene Bank (LGB) Program operations	The Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population (iBoF Salmon) LGB program is a captive breeding and rearing program initiated by DFO in 1998 to reduce the probability of iBoF Salmon extirpation while threats are being researched and addressed. Activities are centered at DFO’s Biodiversity Facilities in Mactaquac, New Brunswick (NB) and Coldbrook, Nova Scotia (NS) (see appendix D of the iBoF Salmon action plan [DFO 2019] for a summary and schematic of the iBoF Salmon LGB program). The main purpose of this program is to maintain the potential for iBoF Salmon recovery by preserving the genetic characteristics thought to be representative of the populations. This program bypasses the marine phase of the salmon life cycle in which high mortality rates are placing the population at-risk. During 2010 to 2015, the LGB program has continued to focus on four principle iBoF Salmon rivers: the Stewiacke and Gaspereau in NS, and the Big Salmon and Point Wolfe (lead by PCA) in NB. The LGB program consists of two main components: captive (that is, progeny of LGB mating solely reared in captivity from egg to mature adult) and in-river (that is LGB progeny placed in their river of origin to live and grow in their natural environment to allow natural selection to occur) live gene banks. These components can be broken down into a number of broad steps (that is, activities). Each broad activity is associated with a number of sub-activities carried out by DFO, often in collaboration with partners. Descriptions of each broad LGB activity outlining their associated sub-activities and the key results over this reporting period are described in more detail in subsequent table rows (LGB activity 1 to 6 as per recovery activity 3.1.1 to 3.1.6).	1	1, 2, 3, 4	DFO
3.1.1	LGB activity 1: collections from rivers	Wild-exposed LGB origin iBoF Salmon are collected from the three DFO-monitored iBoF rivers. Collections are obtained through three main sub-activities: 1) parr collections from in-river LGBs (specific areas of Stewiacke and Big Salmon rivers); 2) smolt collections on the Big Salmon, Stewiacke and Gaspereau rivers, and 3) adult collections (Gaspereau River only). Key results: Annually, hundreds of parr and smolts were collected from each of the three DFO-monitored rivers and returned to the LGBs for rearing to adult (see LGB activity 2) Annual collections of adults from the Gaspereau River ranged from 2 to 16. In two years, sufficient numbers of returning adults warranted the release of some adults back into the Gaspereau River to spawn in the wild. Others were brought to the LGBs for rearing to adult (see LGB activity 2).	1	2	DFO, FFFN, NSPI
3.1.2	LGB activity 2: Captive-rearing to maturity of fish collected from rivers	The iBoF Salmon parr and smolt collected from the in-river LGB (LGB activity 1) are transported to a Biodiversity Facility and raised to maturity in tanks and ponds. Fish at the Mactaquac Biodiversity Facility are vaccinated against pathogens. All fish are fed and cared for daily for 1 to 3 years until they reach maturity. Key results: Annually, hundreds of parr and smolts from different year-classes are maintained in the Biodiversity Facilities	1	2	DFO
3.1.3	LGB activity 3: tagging and genetic analysis	All wild collected iBoF Salmon (LGB activity 1) and fish from a captive-reared group (LGB activity 2) are tagged with a passive integrated transponder (PIT) tag, each with its own alpha numeric code, to help identify individual fish for subsequent steps in the LGB program. A tissue sample is taken from each tagged fish for genetic analysis. The resulting genetic information is used to assign each fish to a specific family and to assess the success of recovering specific families from the wild-exposed and captive-reared groups. Recovery of families is important in maintaining a large gene pool for each of the three DFO-monitored iBoF rivers. This information is used in the development of the annual mating plan (LGB activity 4) and is part of the genetic database that tracks family lineages for each of the three DFO-monitored rivers. Key results: Thousands of parr and smolts collected from each of the three DFO-monitored iBoF rivers and thousands of captive-reared salmon raised at the Biodiversity Facility were PIT tagged Thousands of tissue samples were taken for genetic analysis Annually, hundreds of fish from each of the three DFO-monitored rivers were assigned to specific family groups and were evaluated for their use in the mating plan for that year (see LGB activity 4) The persistence of hundreds of families in each of the three DFO-monitored iBoF rivers (captive-reared and wild) was confirmed (see LGB activity 7)	1	2	DFO
3.1.4	LGB activity 4: spawning	Mature fish are selected for mating according to a prescribed mating plan aimed at reducing the potential for inbreeding (spawning between fish that are related), reducing the loss of genetic variation from one generation to the next, and potentially minimizing selection for captive conditions. The mating plan was based on the genetic assignment of individual fish to specific families (LGB activity 3) and the environment in which they were reared (captive in tanks or wild in rivers). This spawning activity can be further broken into three main sub-activities which include: 1) annual development of genetic pedigree-based mating plans; 2) identification of non-target adult fish (those either no longer required in the mating plan, or have already spawned, or have high sibling numbers within the population) and designated for release (LGB activity 5), and 3) annual spawning of approximately one hundred (100) pairs of adult salmon per river for each of the three DFO-monitored iBoF rivers. Key results: Greater than 1,500 specific spawning pairs were produced and millions of fertilized eggs to be used for the various LGB purposes	1	3, 4	DFO
3.1.5	LGB activity 5: group assignment and distributions	Offspring produced from the spawning activity (LGB activity 4) were placed into one of three groups and reared separately: Captive Group, Equalized Group (EQU), and the General Releases Group. The Captive Group is made up of an approximately equal number of representatives from each family for each year and forms the captive gene bank. The EQU Group becomes the in-river gene bank and involves the strategic release of equal numbers of family representatives in each spawning year into select isolated areas of the watershed. The General Releases Group is made up of the remaining offspring that are annually broadly distributed to their rivers of origin and are non-target adults identified in LGB activity 4. Key results: Fry from approximately 100 families per river from each of the three DFO-monitored iBoF rivers became part of the EQU Group and were distributed into specific tributaries of their rivers of origin resulting in the annual release of thousands of progeny into in-river gene banks Captive gene banks were created annually and maintained for each DFO-monitored iBoF river. The gene banks included 10s of progeny from each family created in a spawning year Tens of thousands of eggs from each of the three DFO-monitored rivers were annually reared to unfed fry stage and released into strategic locations in their rivers of origin Hundreds of surplus (non-target) adult salmon were released into iBoF rivers, including the three DFO-monitored iBoF rivers as well as donor iBoF rivers (for example Salmon River Colchester (NS), North Minas Basin and St. Croix (NS), Petitcodiac (NB) and Upper Salmon (NB) rivers)	1	1, 4	DFO
3.1.6	LGB activity 6: monitoring captive populations and evaluating LGB success	Genetic samples collected from the captive gene bank (LGB activity 3) were analysed to determine to which families the progeny belonged. These analyses measure the success of maintaining a full complement of year classes of the three principle DFO-monitored iBoF rivers in the LGB. In-river monitoring provided a means of evaluating LGB success of wild-exposed individuals. To this end, wild-produced and wild-exposed parr and smolts that are captured as part of ongoing monitoring activities (recovery activity 1.1) were tissue sampled and their genetics used to determine the life stage at which the LGB fish was released into the river and from what family they originated. Monitoring of both captive and in-river LGBs also provided confirmation that loss of genetic diversity (for example, numbers and types of genetic traits) by the populations relative to the diversity noted in the founder collection (population used at the start of recovery efforts) has been minimized. Key results: Monitoring of captive and in-river LGBs has been ongoing over this reporting period and some genetic analysis undertaken Genetic analysis of Stewiacke River samples has demonstrated that One or more representatives of between 80 and 90% of families produced each year in the LGB are subsequently recovered and spawned in the production of the next generation of Stewiacke River iBoF Salmon The rate of loss of a specific type of genetic marker between the founder population and more recently captured Stewiacke River iBoF Salmon has been estimated to be between 0 and 2.5%	1	1, 2, 3, 4	DFO
3.2	Initiating the development of a 5-year plan for the LGB program	DFO established a framework and timetable in early 2015 for the development a 5-year plan for the iBoF Salmon LGB program. To this end, DFO Science established a small sub-committee of internal and external scientific experts to advise on the plan. The drafting of three associated supporting documents are underway (see below) and the 5-year LGB plan may be adapted following the completion of these activities; 1)assessment of LGB contribution to population status, 2) conservation of genetic diversity, and 3) effects of early rearing environments on performance (fitness effects).	1, 4	12, 15	DFO
3.3	New high ancestry LGB approach for Fundy National Park rivers	In 2010, PCA FNP initiated a change to its long-term iBoF Salmon recovery program. Prior to 2010, LGB operations on the Point Wolfe River focused on supplementing remnant Point Wolfe River stock with the adjacent Big Salmon River stock to increase population genetic variation. However, concerned with the loss of the unique original Point Wolfe River genetic strain through this stock supplementation, individuals most closely related to the original Point Wolfe River stock were selected from captive and wild populations in 2010 and 2011 to serve as founder broodstock for further LGB operations in FNP rivers. This new approach aimed to produce Point Wolfe River High Ancestry (PWRHA) stock for release into both the Point Wolfe River and the Upper Salmon River. Key results : PWRHA stock were selected from available captive and wild collections and spawned in 2011, 2012, and 2013 The resulting PWRHA offspring produced were released as unfed fry to vacant and isolated habitat in 2012 (30,000), 2013 (76,000), and 2014 (3,000) Various juvenile fish collections transfers to the Mactaquac Biodiversity Facilty for captive-rearing, retentions for future broodstock, and spawning activities were undertaken in 2013 to 2015 Beginning in 2015, the PWRHA program targeted 100 annual matings of PWRHA broodstock and a sustained broodstock population of approximately 500 spawners Juvenile fish collected in addition to those required for broodstock were either released back into the river where they were captured, or transferred to the marine rearing facilities as smolt where they would be later returned to FNP rivers as adults to spawn naturally (see recovery activity 1.8)	1	3, 4	PCA, DFO, FFFN
3.4	Prohibition against the destruction of identified critical habitat applied in Fundy National Park	PCA in FNP developed a Species at Risk Act (SARA) subsection 58(2) description for those portions of critical habitat within FNP, NB, namely for those sections of the Point Wolfe and Upper Salmon rivers within park boundaries. In August 2010, the Minister of the Environment published this critical habitat description in the Canada Gazette thereby invoking the SARA subsection 58(1) prohibition against the destruction of the identified critical habitat. This prohibition came into effect on November 5, 2010. Reference: PCA 2010	3	10	PCA
3.5	iBoF Salmon recovery strategy amendments (revised critical habitat maps)	Amendments to the iBoF Salmon recovery strategy were made in 2013 by DFO in collaboration with PCA FNP to incorporate changes to the critical habitat maps in appendix IV. These changes are restricted to the incorporation of geo-referenced coordinates for drawn polygons that circumscribe the tributaries containing the critical habitat. These revisions were made to help inform Canadians of the location of the identified critical habitat and did not change the definition, location, or total area of the critical habitat. The revised maps are in appendix IVb (pages 68 to 76) and the associated coordinates in appendix IVa (pages 77 to 84) of the recovery strategy. Reference: DFO 2010	3	10	DFO, PCA
3.6	Development of a Critical Habitat Order for identified freshwater critical habitat	The iBoF Salmon recovery strategy identifies 10 rivers in NB and NS as containing critical habitat: Gaspereau, Stewiacke, Debert, Folly, Great Village, Portapique, Economy, Upper Salmon, Point Wolfe and Big Salmon. Two of these watersheds are mainly contained within the boundaries of FNP (Point Wolfe and Upper Salmon rivers). For the protection of those 8 rivers and portions of the Point Wolfe and Upper Salmon outside FNP boundaries, DFO began work during the reporting period to establish a Critical Habitat Order made pursuant to subsections 58(4) and 58(5) of SARA. The Order was completed outside the reporting period in September 2019. The Critical Habitat Order invokes the subsection 58(1) prohibition against the destruction of the identified critical habitat.	3	10	DFO
3.7	Important marine and estuarine habitat – Science review process	In November 2012, a DFO Science review process was undertaken to review and evaluate available information to support the identification of important marine and estuarine habitat required for the successful completion of all iBoF Salmon life-history stages. A Science Advisory Report was prepared and includes information extracted from the more comprehensive supporting research document. Advice from this process was used to inform the development of an estuarine and marine critical habitat identification to be included in an amended recovery strategy (see recovery activity 3.9). References: DFO 2013, Marshall 2013	2	5	DFO, other meeting participants
3.8	Advice for the delineation of iBoF Salmon critical habitat boundaries in the Minas Basin and Chignecto Bay	A DFO Science Response process was undertaken in 2014 to assist with the delineation of precise boundaries for iBoF Salmon critical habitat being considered within Chignecto Bay and the Minas Basin. Specifically in question was the boundary between estuarine and marine habitat for several large, tidal estuaries (that is, Petitcodiac River, Avon River embayment, eastern extremity of Minas Basin at Salmon River Colchester and Cumberland Basin). Reference: DFO 2015a	2	5	DFO
3.9	Preparation of marine and estuarine critical habitat identification in future amended recovery strategy	DFO initiated work to identify iBoF Salmon marine and estuarine critical habitat in a new amendment to the recovery strategy, including the drafting of updates to various components of the critical habitat section of the recovery strategy. The Science processes outlined in recovery activity 3.7 and 3.8 provided information to support this work. The completion of the amended recovery strategy will include an external consultation phase and a public comment period on the Species at Risk Public Registry. Proposed (for public comment) and final amended recovery strategy will be available on the Species at Risk Public Registry once completed.	2	5, 7	DFO
3.10	Consideration of the Petitcodiac River as containing critical habitat	In response to requests from several Recovery Team member groups, DFO began to review information and discuss the possibility of identifying the Petitcodiac River as one containing critical habitat in early 2015. Since the publication of the recovery strategy in 2010, conditions had changed; the causeway gates were opened in April 2010, and partners had made significant efforts to re-establish iBoF Salmon to the Petitcodiac.	3	10	DFO
3.11	Development of a draft action plan for iBoF Salmon	A draft action plan for iBoF Salmon was developed by DFO in cooperation with PCA and in collaboration and consultation with the iBoF Salmon Recovery Team. Initial engagement with the Recovery Team was accomplished via a workshop on November 7, 2012 to seek their advice and input into the development of recovery measures. The draft action plan addresses the five recovery objectives identified in the recovery strategy and puts forth specific measures to achieve these objectives, address threats, and monitor recovery. In doing so, the action plan seeks to build on previous and ongoing activities while recognizing that other measures need to be undertaken or enhanced. The draft action plan included 35 recovery measures organized within 3 tables depending on the identified responsible party and/or collaborations. A jurisdictional review and external comment period on the draft action plan was undertaken from October to December 2014. The comments received from this review were considered in preparing for the next steps in action plan development which were completed outside of this reporting period (proposed version published in 2016, and final version published in 2019).	all	all	DFO and PCA, iBoF Salmon Recovery Team, other additional government departments and regulators, Indigenous groups, Industry, Environmental Non-Government Organizations
3.12	SARA permitting	Over the reporting period, DFO issued 34 SARA section 73 permits for activities affecting iBoF Salmon. No s.73 permits needed to be issued by PCA since all salmon research and recovery work within FNP during this reporting period was included in the activities listed in the recovery strategy (Section 2.9 Activities Permitted by the Recovery Strategy) to be exempt from the SARA prohibitions, in accordance with subsection 83(4) of SARA. These activities were evaluated by DFO (or by PCA for activities within FNP) and determined not to jeopardize the survival or recovery of the species. The permit conditions included mitigation measures to ensure minimal impact to the species. Reference:Species at Risk Public Registry Permits and Agreements (2015).	3, 5	10, 17, 18	DFO
3.13	Administration of federal funding programs for Species at Risk and fish habitat	iBoF Salmon stewardship projects have been supported through federally administered funding programs including: the Habitat Stewardship Program (HSP, 18 projects), the Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk (AFSAR, 9 projects) and the Recreational Fisheries Conservation Partnerships Program (RFCPP, 8 projects). Details on projects undertaken or planned are described in the Stewardship and/or Communication, Outreach and Education section of this table.	3, 5	8, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18	DFO and ECCC coordination with implementation by various groups as outlined in rows below
3.14	Fishery closures and restrictions	DFO has continued to implement Atlantic Salmon fishery closures and restrictions to protect the iBoF Salmon and other Atlantic Salmon populations. The commercial Atlantic Salmon fishery has been closed since 1985. The recreational iBoF Salmon angling fishery has been closed since 1990, except on the Gaspereau River which didn’t fully close until 1998. There have been no allocations for Aboriginal food, social, or ceremonial fisheries since 1990 on most iBoF rivers, although limited allocations were available on the Gaspereau River up to and including 2003. Gear and seasonal restrictions are in place to minimize iBoF Salmon bycatch in recreational fisheries that target other species (including Brook Trout), and the retention of iBoF Salmon as a bycatch is prohibited in all fisheries either by regulation or by licence conditions. For more information, see: Atlantic Fisheries Regulations (AFRs) 1985 Maritime Provinces Fishery Regulations (MPFRs) Variation Orders (VOs)	2, 3	7, 10	DFO
3.15	Fisheries compliance monitoring and enforce-ment surveillance in iBoF rivers	Fisheries monitoring and surveillance patrols on iBoF rivers to ensure compliance with existing regulations were conducted by fishery officers out of DFO Conservation and Protection (C&P) area offices in Truro, Saint John, and Digby. Vehicle, foot, snowmobile, and/or all-terrain vehicle patrols were undertaken to check known iBoF Salmon holding areas (for example, below bridges). Additional patrols were conducted following LGB iBoF Salmon releases in specific iBoF watersheds. There were no reported fishery related violations during this reporting period. This recovery activity is linked to outreach recovery activity 4.10.	3, 5	10, 17, 18	DFO
3.16	New regulations to address threat of aquatic invasive species	The presence and spread of aquatic invasive fish species (for example, Chain Pickerel, Smallmouth Bass) is a concern for iBoF Salmon and other native fish species in the Maritime Provinces. In November 2012, the Government of NS implemented new Live Fish Possession Regulations to address the illegal introduction (live possession and transport) of fish species into provincial waters. These new regulations developed under the Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act prohibit the unlawful possession of live fish and are intended help to address a long standing and serious threat to native species in NS. Reference: Live Fish Possession Regulations Factsheet [PDF 142 KB]	3	10	NSDFA
3.17	Law enforce-ment collabora-tion for the protection of iBoF Salmon in Fundy National Park	Collaboration among local law enforcement agencies was initiated by PCA in March 2015 for the protection of iBoF Salmon, including adult releases as part of PCA’s recovery efforts. This network of law enforcement agencies will maximize opportunities to protect iBoF Salmon being released in NB across jurisdictional boundaries. Through education, monitoring, and enforcement, this effort will also help build capacity amongst law enforcement agencies for ongoing and future collaboration. FNP Law Enforcement Fact Sheet (available from PCA at pc.fundy.pc@canada.ca or 506-887-6000)	3, 5	10, 16, 17, 18	PCA, DFO, NB DERD, RCMP, ECCC, NB Off-road vehicle enforcement unit, and Crime Stoppers
3.18	Restoration of tidal flow and fish passage on the Petitcodiac River	On April 14, 2010, as part of the second stage of a three-stage strategy and long-term plan to restore tidal flow and fish passage on the Petitcodiac River, the NBDTI opened the causeway gates between the NB towns of Riverview and Moncton. This phase of the project included monitoring of the seasonal response for at least two annual cycles as the river, fish population, and the surrounding habitat adjust to the change. See recovery activity 1.17 for the monitoring work associated with this project.	2	7	NBDTI
3.19	Regulatory review of project in iBoF rivers	The DFO Fisheries Protection Program (FPP; referred to as the Habitat Management Program prior to 2013 and as the Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program since 2018) undertook regulatory reviews of works, undertakings, or activities in iBoF rivers to ensure compliance with SARA and the Fisheries Act. FPP provided advice to proponents through Letters of Advice to avoid and mitigate impacts. Fisheries Act Authorizations were issued for a limited number of projects that impacted fish and fish habitat. These Authorizations included conditions to ensure impacts on iBoF Salmon, or its habitat were avoided or mitigated. No Authorizations were issues for the destruction of iBoF Salmon critical habitat. FPP also provided advice under SARA and the Fisheries Act in support of federal and provincial environmental assessment processes.	3, 5	10, 11, 17, 18	DFO
3.20	Habitat conformity and compliance monitoring and enforcement in iBoF rivers	DFO’s FPP undertook compliance and conformity monitoring of works, undertakings, or activities with the potential to impact iBoF Salmon and their habitat through habitat fragmentation and lost productivity. Conformity monitoring was undertaken to verify that work was undertaken as expected (for example footprint and timing of work) and that recommended mitigation measures were implemented. Monitoring efforts focused on projects or activities that affect fish passage, particularly culverts (see recovery activities 3.21 and 3.22 below for other specific DFO-led activities associated with culverts). In NB, habitat compliance monitoring and enforcement, a joint activity between FPP and DFO’s C&P Branch, was also undertaken to verify occurrences and to determine whether they resulted in serious harm to fish, including impacts to aquatic species at risk. In NS, FPP strives to conduct compliance monitoring as a joint activity with NS Environment and C&P.	3, 5	10, 11, 17, 18	DFO, NSE in NS for habitat compliance monitoring
3.21	Identification and mapping of barriers in iBoF rivers	DFO’s FPP assessed approximately 300 watercourse crossings in two iBoF Salmon watersheds (Salmon River, Colchester, and Folly River) between 2011 and 2012. Potential barriers to fish passage were identified, assessed, and mapped. This information will be used to guide and inform future remediation activities in these watersheds.	3	8	DFO
3.22	Culvert audits and development of new culvert installation guidelines in NS	DFO’s FPP audited new culvert installations in iBoF watersheds and across NS in 2013 and 2014. Following the audit, FPP and NS Environment revised the culvert installation guidelines, led training sessions for installers and culvert designers, and FPP committed to ongoing monitoring of all new culvert installations in iBoF Salmon critical habitat. Reference: DFO 2015b	3	10, 11	DFO, NSE
3.23	Aquatic connectivity improvements and effective-ness monitoring in Fundy National Park rivers	Several projects were completed to finalize and assess recent improvements to aquatic connectivity, and to assess overall aquatic connectivity, within FNP. These projects benefit iBoF Salmon by providing increased access to potential quality freshwater habitat. Dickson Brook stream restoration: Riparian planting was conducted between 2010 and 2013 as part of ongoing restoration efforts on Dickson Brook. Improvements increased channel stability and also led to ecological benefits including an increase in the quality and quantity of in-stream habitat for fish and aquatic invertebrates, increased biodiversity in the riparian zone, and restored fish passage through culverts. Bennett Lake Dam fishway construction: The deteriorating historic wooden dam at Bennett Lake was replaced with a concrete structure in 2010. A fishway equipped with a channel designed to mimic the natural stream was then constructed in 2011 to facilitate fish passage. This work was done in a manner to maintain the lake ecosystem of the naturalized Bennett Lake head pond. Post-installation fish passage and water temperature evaluations were undertaken. Fish of varying sizes were able to use the Bennet Lake fishway and thermal profiles suggest that the stream habitat mimics local natural stream habitat. Culvert replacements: The Kinnie Brook (which flows into the Upper Salmon River)/ Highway 114 culvert was replaced in 2009, and fish passage improvement was evaluated each summer from 2010 to 2012. The culvert was also re-evaluated using watercourse crossing inventory protocols. Data support that the new Kinnie Brook culvert system is passable by fish. Aquatic connectivity assessment: All stream crossings and barriers within four park watersheds were assessed: Point Wolfe River, Upper Salmon River, Dickson Brook, and Mile Brook. Assessments were done both inside and outside of park boundaries for the Point Wolfe and Upper Salmon rivers, and streams were ranked according to passability for diadromous and river-resident fish species. Data were collected from 2005 to 2010 to assess connectivity using the dendritic connectivity index (DCI). Overall, connectivity has improved significantly since 2010. Improvements to fish passage in the park have raised the DCI above the 80% threshold from Fair to Good. Reference: PCA 2015.	3	9, 10, 11	PCA
3.24	Atlantic Salmon marine threat workshop	In December 2014, DFO hosted a one-day multi-interest workshop to identify management and science actions to mitigate marine threats to Atlantic Salmon over the next five years. The workshop focused on three high level threats that were identified during recovery potential assessments (DFO 2008) and specific topics associated with each threat were discussed: Threat 1: ecosystem changes: estuary predator/prey, estuary oceanography, outside estuary predator/prey, and outside estuary oceanography Threat 2: pathogens and parasites found in wild populations Threat 3: salmonid aquaculture: predator/prey interactions on migrating wild salmon, disease control, genetic and ecology of escapees For each topic, actions to undertake, research needs, and next steps were identified.Meeting Summary Notes including the threat review template, main conclusions of the meeting, and suggestions for next steps were produced and distributed to all participants for follow-up on identified actions via existing advisory bodies. Reference: Meeting Summary Notes; DFO 2008	2, 5	6, 16, 17, 18	DFO, Other meeting participants (academia, aquaculture industry, PCA, Atlantic Salmon conservation organization, Indigenous groups, Province of NS)
3.25	Development and implementation of an Integrated Pest Management Plan for sea lice in NB	An Integrated Pest Management Plan (IPMP) for sea lice management in NB was developed in 2013 through a collaborative approach between salmon aquaculture farmers, provincial and federal regulators, veterinarians, scientists, conservationists and traditional fishers. The IPMP provides a comprehensive, strategic framework for the prevention, research, monitoring, and control strategies required to manage sea lice on farms, combining preventative farming practices with approved treatment products for use when necessary. The IPMP aims to promote the health and welfare of cultured Atlantic salmon, while minimizing potential impacts to wild aquatic resources including iBoF Salmon. Annual performance reports support the continuous periodic monitoring, evaluation, and improvement of the IPMP. Reference:ACFFA Integrated Pest Management Factsheet	2	6, 7	ACFFA, NB Veterinarian, NBDAAF, NBDELG, DFO, ECCC, HC, VDD
3.26	Collection and publication of sea lice abundance data on salmon farms	Salmon farms monitored sea lice abundance and reported as required by regulation to provincial regulators. Since 2011, the ACFFA has also prepared and made available online annual Sea Lice Management Reports which provide an overview of the status of sea lice management in NB going back to 2009. Data and trends for the reports are generated from farmers’ monthly submissions of sea lice counts to Fish-iTrends, an Atlantic-wide industry data collection system developed and maintained by the Atlantic Veterinary College. Reference: ACFFA Publications (research, program and project reports)	2	6	ACFFA NBDAAF, Industry
3.27	Review of farm fish escape management	The New Brunswick Breach of Containment Governance Framework for Marine Salmonid Farms (developed in 2009 by NBDAAF and DFO in consultation with industry) was reviewed in 2014 to 2015 through a collaborative process led by NBDAAF. The purpose of the framework is to prevent farmed Salmon escapees from marine aquaculture sites in NB and by establishing protocols, requirements, and recapture mechanisms to be followed in the event of escapes. All aspects of net pen location and infrastructure, equipment standards, inspection and maintenance, protocols and reporting were discussed in the review.	2	7	NBDAAF, DFO, Industry, other Stakeholders
3.28	Improvements in the planning and operation components of aquaculture facilities	DFO and its regulatory partners worked in spring 2014 to develop new Aquaculture Activities Regulations to clarify operation conditions, harmonize reporting, and establish specific environmental monitoring and sampling requirements across Canada. The regulations clarify under what conditions aquaculture operators may treat fish for disease and parasites and deposit organic matter into the environment. They also require that only products regulated by Health Canada (HC) be used. The proposed regulations were published to the Canada Gazette I for public comment in August 2014.	2	7	DFO, ECCC, HC, NSDFA
3.29	Development of a regulatory framework for aquaculture in NS	In May 2013 the Government of NS announced a commitment to developing and implementing a regulatory framework for aquaculture in NS. The NSDFA established an independent two-person Panel to develop this framework through an independent, consultative, collaborative and rigorous, evidence-based approach. The final report on ‘A New Regulatory Framework for Low-impact/High-value Aquaculture in Nova Scotia’ was published in December 2014 (Doelle and Lahey 2014). The Report provided recommendations for a new provincial regulatory system for NS. These recommendations may also be of value for consideration in NB. NSDFA Reference Material	2	7	NSDFA
3. 30	iBoF Salmon Recovery Team meetings	The iBoF Salmon Conservation and Recovery Team serves as a multi-interest DFO-led forum for sharing information, ideas, and advice on iBoF Salmon recovery, research, conservation, and outreach initiatives in support of the survival and recovery of the species, the development of recovery documents, and other SARA objectives. Eleven meetings of the Recovery Team were held over the five-year reporting period. Meeting Notes were prepared and distributed to Recovery Team members following each meeting.	All	All	DFO (Chair), Recovery Team members
3.31	iBoF Salmon Planning Group meetings	Led by DFO Science, the iBoF Salmon Planning Group is a multi-interest sub-committee of the iBoF Salmon Recovery Team. Its roles include evaluating, recommending, planning, and reporting on scientific investigations and projects concerning iBoF Salmon research and recovery. Areas of focus include population assessment and monitoring and population preservation and restoration. The Planning Group met and provided their recommendations to the broader Recovery Team eleven times over the five-year reporting period. Meeting Notes were prepared and distributed to Planning Group members following each meeting.	All	All	DFO, Planning Group members
3.32	Establishment of Ministerial Advisory Committee for Atlantic Salmon	In February 2015, the Government of Canada established a Ministerial Advisory Committee for Atlantic Salmon in response to declining wild Atlantic Salmon returns. The committee consisted of a chair, vice-chair, and nine expert advisors representing all salmon producing provinces in eastern Canada. It reviewed critical wild Atlantic Salmon issues including conservation, enforcement, predation, strategies to address international and unsustainable fisheries, and the advancement of science. The scope of this committee’s mandate included iBoF Salmon. To gather input, the committee held management/science/technical and stakeholder meetings in Halifax, NS; Moncton, NB; St. John’s, NL (including Goose Bay via video link); and Quebec City, QC, between March and May 2015. The committee then worked to prepare a report to outline the committee's findings and provide recommendations to protect, conserve, and rebuild Atlantic salmon stocks across eastern Canada. Reference: A Special Report on Wild Atlantic Salmon in Eastern Canada (MACAS 2015 [PDF 352 KB])	2, 3, 4, 5	16	DFO, Committee members and meeting participants

Table 4.4. Communication, outreach and education recovery activities for Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population, during the May 2010 to May 2015 period.
#	Recovery activity	Description and results	Recovery objective(s)	Performance indicator(s)	Participants
4.1	Supporting Indigenous community involvement in SARA	The Traditional Ancestral Homelands Mi'kmaq/ Wolastoqey (Maliseet)/ Peskotomuhkati/ Indigenous peoples involvement in various aspects of SARA was advanced, and a group of select IKANAWTIKET volunteers were exposed and connected to the various aspects of the Species at Risk Act (SARA) process (including those related specifically to Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population [iBoF Salmon]) through mentorship and training. This was accomplished through attendance at various meetings related to species at risk with the IKANAWTIKET Regional Facilitator, assignment by MAPC of a representative of their organization to recovery teams, attending workshops related to SARA or Indigenous peoples involvement in biodiversity issues, and promoting the work of the IKANAWTIKET volunteers. Reference: MAPC-IKANAWTIKET 2011	5	16, 17, 18	IKANAWTIKET-MAPC
4.2	Integrating Scientific and Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge of Atlantic Salmon in and around Mainland NS	MAPS led a two-year project (2011-2012) to collect Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge (ATK) on Atlantic Salmon, including iBoF Salmon, through interviews with Mi'kmaq individuals and communities in mainland Nova Scotia (NS). The existing body of scientific knowledge relevant to ITK was reviewed, a methodological approach for the collection and documentation of ITK was developed, and ITK related to iBoF Salmon was collected including current and historical use of the species, observations on population trends, habitat changes, and the species’ cultural significance. The project’s overall goal was to enrich approaches to Atlantic Salmon recovery and habitat stewardship measures. Reference: MAPS 2013	3, 5	8, 16, 17, 18	MAPS
4.3	Youth Arises 2010	Approximately 30 Indigenous youth attended a Youth Arises workshop where they learned about the steps of the SARA conservation cycle while focusing on specific examples of Maritimes Region coastal and marine species at risk, including the iBoF Salmon. In addition to the workshop, the Youth Arises project also provided an opportunity for the Indigenous youth to connect with species at risk leaders in the Maritimes Region and be involved in species conservation planning and activities, including participating in a recovery team, such as the iBoF Salmon Recovery Team.	5	16, 17, 18	IKANAWTIKET-MAPC
4.4	Launch of ‘Species at Risk: Leave no Footprint’ Book	The IKANAWTIKET-MAPC officially launched the book ‘Species at Risk: Leave no Footprint’ (Kespiatuksitew Wsitqamuey: muk nqatmu wetaptu'tip)in June 2010 as part of the International Day of Biodiversity. Aimed at raising awareness of species at risk and their habitats in Atlantic Canada, this fully illustrated book describes the biology, habitat, and threats against 20 species including iBoF Salmon. The publication was prepared from a Mi'kmaq, Wolastoqey (Maliseet), and Peskotomuhkati perspective and is written in English and two dialects of Mi’kmaq. Reference: Hunka et al. 2010	5	16	IKANAWTIKET-MAPC
4.5	Youth Ambassadors Atlantic Salmon Habitat Project	The MAPC engaged the Native Council of Nova Scotia (NCNS), the New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council (NBAPC) and other individuals and youth groups within the inner Bay of Fundy area to create a team of ‘Youth Salmon Habitat Ambassadors’. This team of youths (ages 12 to 18) worked with elders and their community to educate the public about the need to protect iBoF Salmon freshwater habitat and encouraged the public to observe and report any activities that could threaten this habitat. Undertaken in 2013 to 2014, this project involved an educational component about iBoF salmon and its habitat, site visits, and the posting of public information/education signage at road crossings on iBoF Salmon critical habitat rivers. These signs featured the iBoF Salmon habitat, life stages, and ways to reduce threats and maintain good freshwater habitat for the species. A public media campaign involving local media coverage was also undertaken to promote the signage at each river and to highlight the significance of maintaining quality habitat. Reference: MAPC and Congress of Aboriginal Peoples. 2013	3, 5	10, 16, 18	IKANAWTIKET-MAPC
4.6	Strengthening capacity among mainland NS Mi’kmaw communities in undertaking species at risk implementation activities	CCM-MCG has worked to build awareness and strengthen capacity within six mainland NS Mi’kmaw communities to undertake species at risk implementation work focusing on iBoF Salmon. Since 2012, workshops were held with community members (youth, elders, fishermen, and environmentalists), educational materials were produced (for example, colouring books, posters, educational modules and an educator’s guide), training (for example, electrofishing) and hands-on activities were provided, and a Mi’kmaw Youth Council was formed. As a result, Mi’kmaw communities in NS have become more involved in iBoF Salmon monitoring, recovery and stewardship activities. This recovery activity is linked to monitoring recovery activity 1.3. Reference: Mi’kmaw Conservation Group website	5	16, 18	CMM-MCG
4.7	Using hands-on methods for species at risk stewardship and Indigenous capacity development	This two-year project (2012 to 2013) led by FFFN aimed to build capacity among Indigenous community members in undertaking conservation activities on four iBoF salmon watersheds in New Brunswick (NB) (Big Salmon, Upper Salmon, Point Wolfe and Petitcodiac Rivers). The project focused on four themes: 1) Communication, outreach, and education; 2) Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge; 3) Conservation planning and implementation; and 4) Monitoring and data collection. Through Project themes 1 and 2, First Nation youth were trained and employed in species at risk conservation field activities, a species at risk-based education program was developed with Atlantic Salmon as a case study, and ways to incorporate ATK into species at risk-based education programs were explored. This work resulted in a strengthened capacity and an enhanced understanding of species at risk conservation and recovery processes among local Indigenous communities. Themes 3 and 4 are reported on under recovery activity 2.1.	5	16, 18	FFFN
4.8	Inner Bay of Fundy Salmon Habitat Stewardship Forum	The FMF leads a multi-stakeholder iBoF Atlantic Salmon Habitat Stewardship Forum focused on promoting freshwater aquatic habitat restoration. The Forum has been ongoing since 2008 and its objectives are to build capacity among its members, identify collaboration opportunities, fulfill communication and training needs, and develop and deliver tools for data collection and analysis for planning and restoration initiatives. During the reporting period, the Forum delivered one workshop in NB, and partnered with Adopt-A-Stream to deliver two workshops in NS.	3, 5	10, 16	FMF, Forum participants
4.9	‘What Works?” A workshop on wild Atlantic salmon recovery programs in eastern North America	A two-day workshop in September 2013, organized and hosted by the ASF, examined Atlantic Salmon recovery programs in eastern North America, including that of iBoF Salmon. Topics covered included live gene banking, stocking strategies, habitat restoration approaches, dams and obstructions, water quality, and regional perspectives. Activities underway in the field were reviewed, the latest research findings were presented, and knowledge gaps were identified. Examples of successes, failures, and best practices were discussed, and biological, socio-economic, and managerial perspectives were integrated. Over 100 participants representing governments and non-government groups attended from Canada, the United States, and elsewhere (United Kingdom, Netherlands, France). Proceeding documents outlining the workshop conclusions and recommendations were produced. Workshop outcomes were presented at the October 23, 2013 iBoF Salmon Recovery Team meeting. Reference: Carr et al. 2015	2, 3, 4, 5	6, 7, 10, 13, 16	ASF, Organizing Committee and workshop participants
4.10	Educational outreach by DFO fishery officers	DFO fishery officers continued to regularly engage with local fishers and the public for the purposes of education and stewardship. Species at risk awareness was raised during ongoing regular patrols and conversations. In NS and NB, fishery officers also visited seven schools and participated in 22 other public events where they spoke about their role in iBoF Salmon conservation. This recovery activity is linked to the fisheries management and protection recovery activity 3.15.	5	16, 17, 18	DFO
4.11	Fish Friends Program	Various Atlantic Salmon conservation organizations delivered the Fish Friends Program to elementary school students in both NS and NB. This educational program teaches students about the life of Atlantic Salmon and other aquatic creatures in marine and freshwater ecosystems. Activities were aimed at teaching youth important conservation, stewardship, and environmental lessons in a hands-on classroom setting. A primary component of the program is its egg incubation unit in which live fish eggs (acquired from DFO’s biodiversity facilities) hatch and grow to juvenile stage right in the classroom. At the end of the program, students release their fish into streams near their school. Key results: Approximately 28,000 salmon eggs were donated by DFO to the Fish Friends Program from the Coldbrook Biodiversity Facility between 2010 and 2013 and over 100,000 salmon eggs were donated from the Mactaquac Biodiversity Facility over the five year reporting period. The program in NS has been using trout eggs as a proxy since 2014. An average of 16 schools per year (approximately 1,600 students in total) participated in the program in NS and 12 schools per year (approximately ~1,200 students in total) participated in the program in NB.	5	16	In NS: NSSA and its affiliate network, local Nova Scotia schools. In NB: SAA in affiliation with the NBSC ASF (for program delivery support)
4.12	Feature advertisement in NS Anglers’ Handbook	The NSDFA annually provides DFO with an opportunity to include an aquatic species at risk page in the NS Anglers’ Handbook. This feature advertisement highlights the iBoF Salmon and its endangered and protected status under SARA. The handbook is provided to every angler who purchases a licence (~65,000/year) with an additional few hundred distributed during various events such as tradeshows and other promotional programs.	3, 5	10, 16, 17, 18	DFO, NSDFA
4.13	Raising awareness about the Little River (Stewiacke) restoration project	The CSA undertook annual outreach and education activities in the Stewiacke River focused on raising environmental awareness and promoting awareness of the CSA’s conservation and stewardship activities. Information meetings were held for local residents, presentations were made in local schools, the ASF-led ‘Fish Friends Program’ (see Fish Friends Program recovery activity 4.11) was promoted and managed, display booths were staffed and placed at local events, and river walks were organized for the public to showcase successful restoration work. Through this work, public awareness of the plight of iBoF Salmon, their place in the ecosystem, and the value of stewardship support has increased, as hasvolunteer and partner interest and engagement in CSA activities. For example, increased interest in the Fish Friends school program by students, parents and teachers has led many to become CSA volunteers. This recovery activity is linked to stewardship recovery activity 2.2.	5	16, 17	CSA
4.14	Education on migration barrier remediation in the Stewiacke River	The migration barrier remediation project described in recovery activity 2.3 included an education, outreach, and hands-on engagement component for Mi’kmaw communities. A migration barrier web game titled ‘Go Plamu Go’ was developed by the MCG and is available on their website. As well, an educational video featuring the timeless relationship of the Mi'kmaq and the Atlantic Salmon was produced.	5	16, 17	CMM-MCG
4.15	Outreach and education on restoration activities in the Petitcodiac watershed	The restoration activities on the Petitcodiac River described in recovery activity 2.7 also supported targeted outreach and education activities to engage local communities, landowners, stakeholder groups, and resource users in stewardship activities on the Petitcodiac watershed. As a result of this work led by the FFFN, capacity was built among organizations to plan and implement stewardship activities. As well, public awareness and support and engagement in restoration activities on the river increased. Some specific products developed include a communication strategy to increase awareness of the impact of the annual river run boating event on the Pollet River, and a website featuring the FFFN Habitat Recovery staff, focus watersheds (Big Salmon and Petitcodiac) and species, and various restoration projects. Reference: Fort Folly Habitat Recovery website featuring their various projects.	5	16, 17, 18	FFFN, PWA, SPK, PFRC
4.16	Promotion of the importance of thermal refuge areas for iBoF Salmon survival in the Petitcodiac River	The thermal refuge study described in recovery activity 1.18 included an outreach component to promote the importance of these thermal refuge areas for iBoF Salmon survival, and to encourage agriculture producers to adopt best management practices. To advance this activity, the PWA held a workshop in 2013 with local agriculture producer organizations on climate change, biodiversity, and species at risk.	5	16, 17, 18	PWA, Agriculture producers
4.17	Use of Regional DFO Twitter account to share iBoF salmon information	The DFO Maritimes Region regional Twitter account, opened in 2014, was used to notify followers of consultations, publications, and other news regarding iBoF Salmon. Relevant tweets over the reporting period included the release of unfed fry in Big Salmon River, and re-tweets from other organizations on iBoF salmon research and restoration activities.	5	16, 17, 18	DFO
4.18	Outreach events and materials	A travelling display featuring SARA listed species, including iBoF Salmon, was produced by DFO and was showcased at approximately 10 events in NB and NS over the reporting period, including World Oceans Day, school exhibits, and fisher forums. These events were attended by the general public, school groups, and environmental organizations. Promotional education and outreach materials (for example, tattoos, postcards, and brochures) featuring species at risk, including iBoF Salmon, were developed and distributed at these and other public events over the reporting period.	5	16, 17, 18	DFO
4.19	Outreach and education at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography	The Species at Risk Display Room at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (BIO) in Dartmouth, NS is an educational display of the various aquatic species at risk in the DFO Maritimes Region and is open to the public for guided or self-guided tours. This display features the iBoF Salmon prominently, and is explored by thousands of visitors, including local schools, each year. The Species at Risk display panel, which includes the iBoF Salmon, and a special iBoF Salmon science display were featured at BIO’s 50th anniversary Open House in 2013. This event attracted nearly 10,000 visitors. Outreach materials were distributed and experts were available to answer questions from the public.	5	16, 17, 18	DFO
4.20	Public tours at Mactaquac Biodiversity Facilities	DFO’s Mactaquac Biodiversity Facility Visitor Centre highlights the iBoF Salmon LGB program and is visited by 500 to 800 people annually. Guided and self-guided tours are taken by school children, academics, First Nation communities, environmental non-government organizations, and government officials. Reference: Mactaquac Biodiversity Facility website	5	18	DFO
4.21	‘Learn About Salmon’ school outreach program	A “Learn About Salmon” school outreach program was developed by PCA in 2014. The program has been delivered throughout NB over the reporting period, including to various Boys and Girls Clubs, Boy Scouts, and after school programs.	5	16	PCA, Boys and Girls Club of Canada, Boy Scouts of Canada
4.22	Volunteer partner and stakeholder engagement and educational activities in Fundy National Park	PCA, FNP actively seeks to engage, provide educational experiences, and disseminate new knowledge to their growing network of partners and stakeholders in all aspects of its recovery program. The following are examples of these efforts. Adult salmon ‘release day’ provides an annual opportunity for representatives from over 20 organizations representing government, First Nations non-government, academics, and private industry to connect, celebrate, and participate in restoring this iconic species at risk. A salmon volunteer opportunity program was developed and launched in 2014. The program aims to provide an educational experience and raise awareness among the general public by assisting PCA staff in their monitoring activities. This immersive program attracted 30 volunteers in 2014 who have contributed over 120 hours to the salmon smolt wheel monitoring program at FNP (see recovery activity 1.2). A “Swim with Salmon for Science” experience was launched in 2014. This experience provided FNP guests the opportunity to learn about various iBoF Salmon recovery actions being carried out around the iBoF from FNP and First Nations guides. Guests were taken to a remote section of river where they snorkeled with FNP and First Nations guides in hopes of spotting an iBoF Salmon in the wild. Hands-on training workshops were held in 2012 for First Nations communities interested in salmon egg basket rearing. Various invited NGOs and environmental groups participated in annual monitoring of the smolt wheel. FNP regularly presents their recovery program at a wide range of academic and applied research conferences and to general interest groups. Approximately 10 presentations were made annually over the reporting period.	5	16, 18	PCA,FFFN, CMM-MCG, Elsipogtog First Nations
4.23	Fundy National Park Web and social media activities	Engaging content about FNP’s iBoF Salmon recovery program was regularly featured across the Park’s French and English social media platforms, including official FNP and PCA Facebook and Twitter. Information on how the public can get involved in FNP recovery actions was regularly updated on PCA’s official website. FNP worked with partners to produce high quality web content across their organizations’ platforms.	5	16	PCA
4.24	Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference visit to Fundy National Park	Each year, the Governor General of Canada selects a handful of Canada’s prospective most promising future leaders for the prestigious annual Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference (GGCLC). The group visits a wide range of operations and projects to better understand regional issues. In May 2015, the GGCLC participants travelled to FNP to participate in the salmon recovery program, as an example of innovative and integrated species at risk recovery.	5	16	PCA, GGCLC
4.25	Magazines and special Interest publications featuring iBoF Salmon in Fundy National Park	PCA’s salmon recovery story in FNP has been featured in several national and international magazines and special interest publications, including (but not limited to) the ‘Atlantic Salmon Journal’ (2013), Memorial University’s ‘Research Matters’ magazine [PDF 4.8 MB] (2014, page 8), and the Aquaculture Research and Development Annual Review (2013-14).	5	16, 17, 18	PCA
4.26	Media features	Several National and Regional media features have showcased the iBoF Salmon including: CBC Land and Sea – “Wild Salmon- the desperate fight to save a disappearing species”, Episode 12, January 5, 2014 featured efforts in the recovery of iBoF Salmon and other salmon units. The program highlights the restoration efforts of the Cobequid Salmon Association, the role of the LGB program (Coldbrook Biodiversity Facility featured) in harbouring and protecting the remaining populations, and potential threats salmon face in the marine environment. La Semaine Verte – “Le Saumon de la Baie de Fundy” (in French only) – episode featuring the decline of iBoF Salmon and the efforts to restore their populations including the LGB and understanding marine threats was under development in 2015 (the piece aired on June 27, 2015). Article in The Valley Harvester, May 6, 2015 on the LGB program at Coldbrook Biodiversity Facility “Saving the Wild Atlantic Salmon”. DFO Facility Manager highlights the LGB program and its role in maintaining the genetic diversity of the iBoF salmon population. ‘A Park For All Season’ episode began airing on TV and online in 2010 on the Oasis HD network which prominently featured FNP iBoF Salmon recovery and collaborations with DFO, industry, academics, and First Nations. ‘Striking Balance’ documentary, featuring FNP and collaborators in iBoF Salmon recovery, was filmed in 2014. The film was released in spring 2016 on TVO and other major national networks. ‘Amazing Places: Perfect Atlantic Salmon Habitat in Fundy Park’ YouTube video. Biosphere reserves are areas designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to serve as models for demonstrating a balanced relationship between humans and the biosphere. FNP serves as a core area for the Fundy Biosphere Reserve. Collaborative efforts among people and organizations within the biosphere reserve serve to promote the sustainability of local economies and communities, as well as the conservation of the ecosystems in which they are located. The iBoF Salmon habitat in FNP was featured as oneof the Fundy Biosphere Reserve's Amazing Places in a YouTube video published in June 2014.	5	16, 17, 18	DFO, CSA, CBC FFFN, SPK, ASF, DFO, Radio Canada DFO, Valley Harvester newspaper PCA, Oasis HD, DFO, FFFN PCA, Striking Balance Productions, PCA, UNESCO
4.27	Media engagement in Fundy National Park	Every year PCA issues multiple media releases to inform and engage the public on FNP recovery activities. In 2014 alone, proactive media relations generated 22 stories in regional and national outlets, including TV, radio, and newspaper. Coverage has been attained across several national and regional networks, including stories on CTV National News, Global National News, and a front-page story on salmon returns to FNP in the Telegraph Journal in 2012.	5	16, 17, 18	PCA, Local, Regional and National media outlets

Table 4.4. Communication, outreach and education recovery activities for Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population, during the May 2010 to May 2015 period.
#	Recovery activity	Description and results	Recovery objective(s)	Performance indicator(s)	Participants
4.14.1	Supporting Indigenous community involvement in SARA	The Traditional Ancestral Homelands Mi'kmaq/ Wolastoqey (Maliseet)/ Peskotomuhkati/ Indigenous peoples involvement in various aspects of SARA was advanced, and a group of select IKANAWTIKET volunteers were exposed and connected to the various aspects of the Species at Risk Act (SARA) process (including those related specifically to Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population [iBoF Salmon]) through mentorship and training. This was accomplished through attendance at various meetings related to species at risk with the IKANAWTIKET Regional Facilitator, assignment by MAPC of a representative of their organization to recovery teams, attending workshops related to SARA or Indigenous peoples involvement in biodiversity issues, and promoting the work of the IKANAWTIKET volunteers. Reference: MAPC-IKANAWTIKET 2011	5	16, 17, 18	IKANAWTIKET-MAPC
4.2	Integrating Scientific and Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge of Atlantic Salmon in and around Mainland NS	MAPS led a two-year project (2011-2012) to collect Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge (ATK) on Atlantic Salmon, including iBoF Salmon, through interviews with Mi'kmaq individuals and communities in mainland Nova Scotia (NS). The existing body of scientific knowledge relevant to ITK was reviewed, a methodological approach for the collection and documentation of ITK was developed, and ITK related to iBoF Salmon was collected including current and historical use of the species, observations on population trends, habitat changes, and the species’ cultural significance. The project’s overall goal was to enrich approaches to Atlantic Salmon recovery and habitat stewardship measures. Reference: MAPS 2013	3, 5	8, 16, 17, 18	MAPS
4.3	Youth Arises 2010	Approximately 30 Indigenous youth attended a Youth Arises workshop where they learned about the steps of the SARA conservation cycle while focusing on specific examples of Maritimes Region coastal and marine species at risk, including the iBoF Salmon. In addition to the workshop, the Youth Arises project also provided an opportunity for the Indigenous youth to connect with species at risk leaders in the Maritimes Region and be involved in species conservation planning and activities, including participating in a recovery team, such as the iBoF Salmon Recovery Team.	5	16, 17, 18	IKANAWTIKET-MAPC
4.4	Launch of ‘Species at Risk: Leave no Footprint’ Book	The IKANAWTIKET-MAPC officially launched the book ‘Species at Risk: Leave no Footprint’ (Kespiatuksitew Wsitqamuey: muk nqatmu wetaptu'tip)in June 2010 as part of the International Day of Biodiversity. Aimed at raising awareness of species at risk and their habitats in Atlantic Canada, this fully illustrated book describes the biology, habitat, and threats against 20 species including iBoF Salmon. The publication was prepared from a Mi'kmaq, Wolastoqey (Maliseet), and Peskotomuhkati perspective and is written in English and two dialects of Mi’kmaq. Reference: Hunka et al. 2010	5	16	IKANAWTIKET-MAPC
4.5	Youth Ambassadors Atlantic Salmon Habitat Project	The MAPC engaged the Native Council of Nova Scotia (NCNS), the New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council (NBAPC) and other individuals and youth groups within the inner Bay of Fundy area to create a team of ‘Youth Salmon Habitat Ambassadors’. This team of youths (ages 12 to 18) worked with elders and their community to educate the public about the need to protect iBoF Salmon freshwater habitat and encouraged the public to observe and report any activities that could threaten this habitat. Undertaken in 2013 to 2014, this project involved an educational component about iBoF salmon and its habitat, site visits, and the posting of public information/education signage at road crossings on iBoF Salmon critical habitat rivers. These signs featured the iBoF Salmon habitat, life stages, and ways to reduce threats and maintain good freshwater habitat for the species. A public media campaign involving local media coverage was also undertaken to promote the signage at each river and to highlight the significance of maintaining quality habitat. Reference: MAPC and Congress of Aboriginal Peoples. 2013	3, 5	10, 16, 18	IKANAWTIKET-MAPC
4.6	Strengthening capacity among mainland NS Mi’kmaw communities in undertaking species at risk implementation activities	CCM-MCG has worked to build awareness and strengthen capacity within six mainland NS Mi’kmaw communities to undertake species at risk implementation work focusing on iBoF Salmon. Since 2012, workshops were held with community members (youth, elders, fishermen, and environmentalists), educational materials were produced (for example, colouring books, posters, educational modules and an educator’s guide), training (for example, electrofishing) and hands-on activities were provided, and a Mi’kmaw Youth Council was formed. As a result, Mi’kmaw communities in NS have become more involved in iBoF Salmon monitoring, recovery and stewardship activities. This recovery activity is linked to monitoring recovery activity 1.3. Reference: Mi’kmaw Conservation Group website	5	16, 18	CMM-MCG
4.7	Using hands-on methods for species at risk stewardship and Indigenous capacity development	This two-year project (2012 to 2013) led by FFFN aimed to build capacity among Indigenous community members in undertaking conservation activities on four iBoF salmon watersheds in New Brunswick (NB) (Big Salmon, Upper Salmon, Point Wolfe and Petitcodiac Rivers). The project focused on four themes: 1) Communication, outreach, and education; 2) Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge; 3) Conservation planning and implementation; and 4) Monitoring and data collection. Through Project themes 1 and 2, First Nation youth were trained and employed in species at risk conservation field activities, a species at risk-based education program was developed with Atlantic Salmon as a case study, and ways to incorporate ATK into species at risk-based education programs were explored. This work resulted in a strengthened capacity and an enhanced understanding of species at risk conservation and recovery processes among local Indigenous communities. Themes 3 and 4 are reported on under recovery activity 2.1.	5	16, 18	FFFN
4.8	Inner Bay of Fundy Salmon Habitat Stewardship Forum	The FMF leads a multi-stakeholder iBoF Atlantic Salmon Habitat Stewardship Forum focused on promoting freshwater aquatic habitat restoration. The Forum has been ongoing since 2008 and its objectives are to build capacity among its members, identify collaboration opportunities, fulfill communication and training needs, and develop and deliver tools for data collection and analysis for planning and restoration initiatives. During the reporting period, the Forum delivered one workshop in NB, and partnered with Adopt-A-Stream to deliver two workshops in NS.	3, 5	10, 16	FMF, Forum participants
4.9	‘What Works?” A workshop on wild Atlantic salmon recovery programs in eastern North America	A two-day workshop in September 2013, organized and hosted by the ASF, examined Atlantic Salmon recovery programs in eastern North America, including that of iBoF Salmon. Topics covered included live gene banking, stocking strategies, habitat restoration approaches, dams and obstructions, water quality, and regional perspectives. Activities underway in the field were reviewed, the latest research findings were presented, and knowledge gaps were identified. Examples of successes, failures, and best practices were discussed, and biological, socio-economic, and managerial perspectives were integrated. Over 100 participants representing governments and non-government groups attended from Canada, the United States, and elsewhere (United Kingdom, Netherlands, France). Proceeding documents outlining the workshop conclusions and recommendations were produced. Workshop outcomes were presented at the October 23, 2013 iBoF Salmon Recovery Team meeting. Reference: Carr et al. 2015	2, 3, 4, 5	6, 7, 10, 13, 16	ASF, Organizing Committee and workshop participants
4.10	Educational outreach by DFO fishery officers	DFO fishery officers continued to regularly engage with local fishers and the public for the purposes of education and stewardship. Species at risk awareness was raised during ongoing regular patrols and conversations. In NS and NB, fishery officers also visited seven schools and participated in 22 other public events where they spoke about their role in iBoF Salmon conservation. This recovery activity is linked to the fisheries management and protection recovery activity 3.15.	5	16, 17, 18	DFO
4.11	Fish Friends Program	Various Atlantic Salmon conservation organizations delivered the Fish Friends Program to elementary school students in both NS and NB. This educational program teaches students about the life of Atlantic Salmon and other aquatic creatures in marine and freshwater ecosystems. Activities were aimed at teaching youth important conservation, stewardship, and environmental lessons in a hands-on classroom setting. A primary component of the program is its egg incubation unit in which live fish eggs (acquired from DFO’s biodiversity facilities) hatch and grow to juvenile stage right in the classroom. At the end of the program, students release their fish into streams near their school. Key results: Approximately 28,000 salmon eggs were donated by DFO to the Fish Friends Program from the Coldbrook Biodiversity Facility between 2010 and 2013 and over 100,000 salmon eggs were donated from the Mactaquac Biodiversity Facility over the five year reporting period. The program in NS has been using trout eggs as a proxy since 2014. An average of 16 schools per year (approximately 1,600 students in total) participated in the program in NS and 12 schools per year (approximately ~1,200 students in total) participated in the program in NB.	5	16	In NS: NSSA and its affiliate network, local Nova Scotia schools. In NB: SAA in affiliation with the NBSC ASF (for program delivery support)
4.12	Feature advertisement in NS Anglers’ Handbook	The NSDFA annually provides DFO with an opportunity to include an aquatic species at risk page in the NS Anglers’ Handbook. This feature advertisement highlights the iBoF Salmon and its endangered and protected status under SARA. The handbook is provided to every angler who purchases a licence (~65,000/year) with an additional few hundred distributed during various events such as tradeshows and other promotional programs.	3, 5	10, 16, 17, 18	DFO, NSDFA
4.13	Raising awareness about the Little River (Stewiacke) restoration project	The CSA undertook annual outreach and education activities in the Stewiacke River focused on raising environmental awareness and promoting awareness of the CSA’s conservation and stewardship activities. Information meetings were held for local residents, presentations were made in local schools, the ASF-led ‘Fish Friends Program’ (see Fish Friends Program recovery activity 4.11) was promoted and managed, display booths were staffed and placed at local events, and river walks were organized for the public to showcase successful restoration work. Through this work, public awareness of the plight of iBoF Salmon, their place in the ecosystem, and the value of stewardship support has increased, as hasvolunteer and partner interest and engagement in CSA activities. For example, increased interest in the Fish Friends school program by students, parents and teachers has led many to become CSA volunteers. This recovery activity is linked to stewardship recovery activity 2.2.	5	16, 17	CSA
4.14	Education on migration barrier remediation in the Stewiacke River	The migration barrier remediation project described in recovery activity 2.3 included an education, outreach, and hands-on engagement component for Mi’kmaw communities. A migration barrier web game titled ‘Go Plamu Go’ was developed by the MCG and is available on their website. As well, an educational video featuring the timeless relationship of the Mi'kmaq and the Atlantic Salmon was produced.	5	16, 17	CMM-MCG
4.15	Outreach and education on restoration activities in the Petitcodiac watershed	The restoration activities on the Petitcodiac River described in recovery activity 2.7 also supported targeted outreach and education activities to engage local communities, landowners, stakeholder groups, and resource users in stewardship activities on the Petitcodiac watershed. As a result of this work led by the FFFN, capacity was built among organizations to plan and implement stewardship activities. As well, public awareness and support and engagement in restoration activities on the river increased. Some specific products developed include a communication strategy to increase awareness of the impact of the annual river run boating event on the Pollet River, and a website featuring the FFFN Habitat Recovery staff, focus watersheds (Big Salmon and Petitcodiac) and species, and various restoration projects. Reference: Fort Folly Habitat Recovery website featuring their various projects.	5	16, 17, 18	FFFN, PWA, SPK, PFRC
4.16	Promotion of the importance of thermal refuge areas for iBoF Salmon survival in the Petitcodiac River	The thermal refuge study described in recovery activity 1.18 included an outreach component to promote the importance of these thermal refuge areas for iBoF Salmon survival, and to encourage agriculture producers to adopt best management practices. To advance this activity, the PWA held a workshop in 2013 with local agriculture producer organizations on climate change, biodiversity, and species at risk.	5	16, 17, 18	PWA, Agriculture producers
4.17	Use of Regional DFO Twitter account to share iBoF salmon information	The DFO Maritimes Region regional Twitter account, opened in 2014, was used to notify followers of consultations, publications, and other news regarding iBoF Salmon. Relevant tweets over the reporting period included the release of unfed fry in Big Salmon River, and re-tweets from other organizations on iBoF salmon research and restoration activities.	5	16, 17, 18	DFO
4.18	Outreach events and materials	A travelling display featuring SARA listed species, including iBoF Salmon, was produced by DFO and was showcased at approximately 10 events in NB and NS over the reporting period, including World Oceans Day, school exhibits, and fisher forums. These events were attended by the general public, school groups, and environmental organizations. Promotional education and outreach materials (for example, tattoos, postcards, and brochures) featuring species at risk, including iBoF Salmon, were developed and distributed at these and other public events over the reporting period.	5	16, 17, 18	DFO
4.19	Outreach and education at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography	The Species at Risk Display Room at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (BIO) in Dartmouth, NS is an educational display of the various aquatic species at risk in the DFO Maritimes Region and is open to the public for guided or self-guided tours. This display features the iBoF Salmon prominently, and is explored by thousands of visitors, including local schools, each year. The Species at Risk display panel, which includes the iBoF Salmon, and a special iBoF Salmon science display were featured at BIO’s 50th anniversary Open House in 2013. This event attracted nearly 10,000 visitors. Outreach materials were distributed and experts were available to answer questions from the public.	5	16, 17, 18	DFO
4.20	Public tours at Mactaquac Biodiversity Facilities	DFO’s Mactaquac Biodiversity Facility Visitor Centre highlights the iBoF Salmon LGB program and is visited by 500 to 800 people annually. Guided and self-guided tours are taken by school children, academics, First Nation communities, environmental non-government organizations, and government officials. Reference: Mactaquac Biodiversity Facility website	5	18	DFO
4.21	‘Learn About Salmon’ school outreach program	A “Learn About Salmon” school outreach program was developed by PCA in 2014. The program has been delivered throughout NB over the reporting period, including to various Boys and Girls Clubs, Boy Scouts, and after school programs.	5	16	PCA, Boys and Girls Club of Canada, Boy Scouts of Canada
4.22	Volunteer partner and stakeholder engagement and educational activities in Fundy National Park	PCA, FNP actively seeks to engage, provide educational experiences, and disseminate new knowledge to their growing network of partners and stakeholders in all aspects of its recovery program. The following are examples of these efforts. Adult salmon ‘release day’ provides an annual opportunity for representatives from over 20 organizations representing government, First Nations non-government, academics, and private industry to connect, celebrate, and participate in restoring this iconic species at risk. A salmon volunteer opportunity program was developed and launched in 2014. The program aims to provide an educational experience and raise awareness among the general public by assisting PCA staff in their monitoring activities. This immersive program attracted 30 volunteers in 2014 who have contributed over 120 hours to the salmon smolt wheel monitoring program at FNP (see recovery activity 1.2). A “Swim with Salmon for Science” experience was launched in 2014. This experience provided FNP guests the opportunity to learn about various iBoF Salmon recovery actions being carried out around the iBoF from FNP and First Nations guides. Guests were taken to a remote section of river where they snorkeled with FNP and First Nations guides in hopes of spotting an iBoF Salmon in the wild. Hands-on training workshops were held in 2012 for First Nations communities interested in salmon egg basket rearing. Various invited NGOs and environmental groups participated in annual monitoring of the smolt wheel. FNP regularly presents their recovery program at a wide range of academic and applied research conferences and to general interest groups. Approximately 10 presentations were made annually over the reporting period.	5	16, 18	PCA,FFFN, CMM-MCG, Elsipogtog First Nations
4.23	Fundy National Park Web and social media activities	Engaging content about FNP’s iBoF Salmon recovery program was regularly featured across the Park’s French and English social media platforms, including official FNP and PCA Facebook and Twitter. Information on how the public can get involved in FNP recovery actions was regularly updated on PCA’s official website. FNP worked with partners to produce high quality web content across their organizations’ platforms.	5	16	PCA
4.24	Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference visit to Fundy National Park	Each year, the Governor General of Canada selects a handful of Canada’s prospective most promising future leaders for the prestigious annual Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference (GGCLC). The group visits a wide range of operations and projects to better understand regional issues. In May 2015, the GGCLC participants travelled to FNP to participate in the salmon recovery program, as an example of innovative and integrated species at risk recovery.	5	16	PCA, GGCLC
4.25	Magazines and special Interest publications featuring iBoF Salmon in Fundy National Park	PCA’s salmon recovery story in FNP has been featured in several national and international magazines and special interest publications, including (but not limited to) the ‘Atlantic Salmon Journal’ (2013), Memorial University’s ‘Research Matters’ magazine (2014, page 8), and the Aquaculture Research and Development Annual Review (2013-14).	5	16, 17, 18	PCA
4.26	Media features	Several National and Regional media features have showcased the iBoF Salmon including: CBC Land and Sea – “Wild Salmon- the desperate fight to save a disappearing species”, Episode 12, January 5, 2014 featured efforts in the recovery of iBoF Salmon and other salmon units. The program highlights the restoration efforts of the Cobequid Salmon Association, the role of the LGB program (Coldbrook Biodiversity Facility featured) in harbouring and protecting the remaining populations, and potential threats salmon face in the marine environment. La Semaine Verte – “Le Saumon de la Baie de Fundy” (in French only) – episode featuring the decline of iBoF Salmon and the efforts to restore their populations including the LGB and understanding marine threats was under development in 2015 (the piece aired on June 27, 2015). Article in The Valley Harvester, May 6, 2015 on the LGB program at Coldbrook Biodiversity Facility “Saving the Wild Atlantic Salmon”. DFO Facility Manager highlights the LGB program and its role in maintaining the genetic diversity of the iBoF salmon population. ‘A Park For All Season’ episode began airing on TV and online in 2010 on the Oasis HD network which prominently featured FNP iBoF Salmon recovery and collaborations with DFO, industry, academics, and First Nations. ‘Striking Balance’ documentary, featuring FNP and collaborators in iBoF Salmon recovery, was filmed in 2014. The film was released in spring 2016 on TVO and other major national networks. ‘Amazing Places: Perfect Atlantic Salmon Habitat in Fundy Park’ YouTube video. Biosphere reserves are areas designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to serve as models for demonstrating a balanced relationship between humans and the biosphere. FNP serves as a core area for the Fundy Biosphere Reserve. Collaborative efforts among people and organizations within the biosphere reserve serve to promote the sustainability of local economies and communities, as well as the conservation of the ecosystems in which they are located. The iBoF Salmon habitat in FNP was featured as oneof the Fundy Biosphere Reserve's Amazing Places in a YouTube video published in June 2014.	5	16, 17, 18	DFO, CSA, CBC FFFN, SPK, ASF, DFO, Radio Canada DFO, Valley Harvester newspaper PCA, Oasis HD, DFO, FFFN PCA, Striking Balance Productions, PCA, UNESCO
4.27	Media engagement in Fundy National Park	Every year PCA issues multiple media releases to inform and engage the public on FNP recovery activities. In 2014 alone, proactive media relations generated 22 stories in regional and national outlets, including TV, radio, and newspaper. Coverage has been attained across several national and regional networks, including stories on CTV National News, Global National News, and a front-page story on salmon returns to FNP in the Telegraph Journal in 2012.	5	16, 17, 18	PCA, Local, Regional and National media outlets

3.2 Activities supporting the identification of critical habitat

Table 5 provides information on the implementation of the studies outlined in the schedule of studies to identify critical habitat as provided in the recovery strategy. Each study has been assigned one of four statuses which correspond to the status of the study at the end of this reporting period:

completed: the study has been carried out and concluded
in progress:the study is underway and has not concluded
not started: the study has been planned but has yet to start
cancelled: the study will not be started or completed

Table 5. Activities undertaken by Fisheries and Oceans Canada to implement the schedule of studies to identify critical habitat for Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population, as outlined in the recovery strategy. The Timeline column refers to the timeline associated with completion of the outlined study as provided in the 2010 published recovery strategy.
Study	Timeline	Status	Description and results
1. Investigate habitat used for spawning and by post-spawning salmon (kelts) as well as freshwater and estuarine survival of kelts	2008 to 2010	In progress	The following research was undertaken to begin to address this area of study. A satellite tagging study investigated the migration of Atlantic Salmon kelts from different populations, including Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy population (iBoF Salmon). Results indicated that kelt migration mimicked that of post-smolts of similar origin, with water temperatures acting as a determining factor. IBoF Salmon kelt migration was restricted to coastal areas near home rivers in water temperatures 0 to 15°C. They spent most of their time near the surface (0 to 5 m) but undertook daytime dives associated with feeding. Reference: Lacroix 2013 Additional research would be needed to complete this area of study.
2. Investigate habitat used by salmon kelts for reconditioning, as well as the location and timing of mortality if it occurs	2009 to 2011	In progress	The following research was undertaken to begin to address this area of study. A satellite tagging study on kelts provided evidence of extensive natural mortality of migrating salmon in coastal zones attributed to predation by large pelagic fish (that is, porbeagle shark for iBoF Salmon coastal migrants) and no evidence of fishing mortality. Reference: Lacroix 2014 Additional research would be needed to complete this area of study.
3. Investigate migration routes for iBoF Salmon post-smolts leaving the Bay of Fundy and summer habitat used by resident post-smolts in the Bay of Fundy	2009 to 2012	Completed	Acoustic tagging studies were undertaken to investigate the migratory strategies of Atlantic salmon post-smolts of different origins including iBoF Salmon. Results indicated that migrating iBoF Salmon post-smolts used well-defined migration corridors close to shore and associated with prevailing surface currents. For some post-smolts, this coastal migration resulted in extended residency inside the Bay of Fundy during the summer where the Bay provided a thermal refuge (8 to 14°C). Reference: Lacroix 2012
4. Investigate marine foraging habitat used by [iBoF salmon post-smolts [in] comparison to that used by salmon [post-smolts] of outer Bay of Fundy origin	2009 to 2011	In progress	The following research was undertaken to begin to address this area of study. Acoustic tagging studies were undertaken to investigate the migratory strategies of Atlantic salmon post-smolts of different origins, including iBoF Salmon and outer Bay of Fundy (oBoF) Salmon. Results indicated that oBoF posts-molts migrated rapidly into the Gulf of Maine and did not return, and were classified as distant migrants. In contrast, iBoF posts-molts were usually classified as coastal migrants that returned to the Bay of Fundy for the summer. iBoF Salmon used well-defined migration corridors, close to shore, and associated with prevailing surface currents. Reference: Lacroix 2012 Additional research would be needed to complete this area of study.
5. Analyse existing marine distribution data for iBoF Salmon	2009 to 2011	Completed	An analysis of information contributory to the use of the Bay of Fundy by iBoF Salmon, followed by a science peer review process undertaken in November 2012, provided an update and synthesis of the best available information on marine and estuarine habitat use by iBoF Salmon. Advice from this process is being used to inform the identification of estuarine and marine critical habitat and a revised schedule of studies in an amended recovery strategy. See recovery activity 3.7. References: Marshall 2013; DFO 2013

3.3 Summary of progress towards recovery

3.3.1 Status of performance indicators

Table 6 provides a summary of the progress made toward meeting the performance indicators outlined in table 3. Each indicator has been assigned one of four statuses:

not met: the performance indicator has not been met, and little to no progress has been made
partially met, underway: moderate to significant progress has been made toward meeting one or more elements of the performance indicator, and further work is ongoing or planned
met: the performance indicator has been met and no further action is required
met, ongoing: the performance indicator has been met, but efforts should continue until such time the population is considered to be recovered (that is the indicator will be reported against in the next five-year progress report)

Table 6. Summary of progress toward meeting the performance indicators outlined in the recovery strategy. Recovery Activities (RAs) are as indicated in table 4 above.
Performance indicator	Status	Details
1)Number of river populations persisting, with and without Live Gene Bank (LGB) support	Met; ongoing	Comments Atlantic Salmon, inner Bay of Fundy populations (iBoF Salmon) continued to persist during the reporting period in the 14 rivers receiving LGB support (Gaspereau, Stewiacke, Upper Salmon, Point Wolfe, Big Salmon, Debert, Folly, Great Village, Economy, Salmon (Colchester), Petitcodiac, Cornwallis and St. Croix) and in 5 non-LGB supported rivers (Portapique, Irish, Mosher, Black and Mispec). This level of persistence (19 rivers) represents 45% of the 42 rivers known to have historically produced salmon. These populations are however not yet considered self-sustaining. This outcome is supported and informed by the following recovery activities (RAs) in table 4: 1.1 to 1.5, 1.10, 3.1, 3.1.5, 3.1.6, and 3.3. Next steps / recommendations Annual monitoring and assessments of principle LGB rivers, with ongoing evaluation of LGB success, should continue for Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Parks Canada Agency (PCA) and partner-monitored rivers Range-wide electrofishing surveys should continue to be conducted periodically (for example, 10 year intervals) in iBoF rivers to assist in evaluating the persistence of populations with and without LGB support and progress towards recovery (that is, the establishment of self-sustaining populations).
2) Success in maintaining a full complement of year-classes representative of the Chignecto Bay and Minas Basin (including Gaspereau River) populations in the LGB	Met; ongoing	Comments Full year classes of salmon populations representative of Chignecto Bay and Minas Basin (including Gaspereau River) have been successfully maintained in the LGB (RAs 3.1.1 and 3.3). These include the Stewiacke and Gaspereau rivers (Minas Basin rivers), the Point Wolfe River and the Big Salmon River (Chignecto Bay). Next steps / recommendations Collections of representative iBoF Salmon populations from priority rivers to support the LGB program should continue as described in the action plan.
3) Confirmation that loss of genetic diversity by the populations in the wild and in captivity relative to the diversity noted in the founder collection has been minimized	Met; ongoing	Comments Research on the effects of LGB strategies on the genetics of iBoF Salmon indicate that the current mating plan approach is successful in maintaining a high level of genetic variation and family persistence in LGBs (RAs 1.7, 3.1, and 3.1.4). This confirms that the loss of genetic diversity in the managed population (which is composed of both individuals released in the wild for a portion of their life cycle and individuals maintained in captivity for the entirety of their life cycle) relative to the original LGB collections has been minimized to the extent possible. Next steps / recommendations Continue to undertake the LGB program in a manner consistent with the current approach that minimizes the loss of genetic diversity, but also undertaking periodic reviews and adaptations to take into account new information and changing conditions as described in the action plan.
4) Loss of adaptive traits by inbreeding / outbreeding depression or unintentional loss of distinct populations within a river has been mitigated	Partially met; underway	Comments Research has been undertaken to monitor the effects of the current LGB program approach. The LGB program has operated in a manner that aims to minimize the loss of adaptive traits by inbreeding/outbreeding depression and the loss of distinct populations within a river (RA 3.1.3). Scientific research has shown that both inbreeding and outbreeding may have detrimental effects on the persistence of small, isolated populations of salmon (RA 1.7). Current LGB methods, which involve mating plans that account for river of origin and relatedness among all individuals spawned, were successful in maintaining a high level of genetic variation and persistence of families through time, therefore current methods appear to mitigate this issue. A plan to review of the LGB program to inform the subsequent development of a 5-year plan for the LGB program was initiated during this reporting period (RA 3.2). The Fundy National Park (FNP) ‘High Ancestry’ LGB approach (RA 3.3) has successfully prevented the loss of the distinct Point Wolfe River salmon population. Next steps / recommendations Undertake the LGB review and finalize a 5-year plan for the program Continue to periodically review and adaptively manage the LGB program as required to accommodate new information and changing conditions, as described in the action plan, and to mitigate the loss of adaptive traits and unintentional loss of distinct populations within a river Continue to maintain and adapt as necessary, the new ‘High Ancestry’ LGB approach for FNP rivers to conserve the distinct Point Wolfe River population of iBoF Salmon
5) Extent that our understanding of ocean distribution and habitat use by iBoF Salmon has increased	Partially met; underway	Comments Tagging studies on post-smolts and kelts during this reporting period has bettered our understanding of ocean distribution and marine habitat use by iBoF Salmon (see RA 1.12 and table 5). Results of this work and other available information on the marine distribution of iBoF Salmon was consolidated and peer reviewed by DFO Science (RA 3.7) and will inform the identification of estuarine and marine critical habitat for iBoF Salmon in an amended recovery strategy (RA 3.9). Next steps / recommendations Finalize the identification of marine and estuarine critical habitat for iBoF Salmon in an amended recovery strategy and complete the schedule of studies to further refine our understanding of ocean distribution and habitat use by iBoF Salmon Undertake the post-smolt marine movement and migration tracking and analysis study outlined in the action plan to further improve the characterization of habitat use by iBoF Salmon in the Bay of Fundy/Gulf of Maine
6) Contribution of the research program towards the identification of threats that could be preventing or limiting recovery	Partially met; underway	Comments Research was undertaken that contributed information toward the identification of threats that could be preventing or limiting recovery (RA 1.12 and table 5). A key result of this research indicated that large pelagic predators (that is, Porbeagle Shark and Bluefin Tuna) are present in iBoF Salmon habitat and are linked to mortality of post-spawned iBoF Salmon (that is, kelts). More research is needed to further our understanding of other identified marine threats. The latest research findings were discussed at multi-interest workshops held during the reporting period where threats and corresponding mitigation for Atlantic Salmon in the marine environment were reviewed and discussed and recommendations produced to identify further research needs (RA 4.9 and RA 3.24). Next steps / recommendations More research effort is needed to determine how and when smolts and post-smolts are dying during the marine portion of their life cycle, as well as what actions are necessary to address marine threats Research efforts should focus on relevant recovery measures outlined in the action plan. These measures include those aimed at improving our understanding of marine predation and undertaking a post-smolt marine migration study
7) Success of mitigative measures for overcoming identified threats (in marine and estuarine environment)	Partially met; underway	Comments Several fisheries, habitat, and aquaculture management activities have been implemented to attempt to minimize negative impacts on iBoF Salmon in the marine and estuarine environment (RA 3.14 to 3.28). However, their success has not been evaluated, and the level of effect each threat has on the iBoF Salmon population’s survival or recovery remains largely uncertain. Until the threats to iBoF Salmon in the marine environment are better understood and mitigative measures identified to remedy their impacts, efforts to date have focused on circumventing the low marine survival experienced by iBoF Salmon and improving fitness. These efforts include the LGB program which continues to support the population’s persistence (RA 3.1) as well as the FNP and Petitcodiac River marine rearing projects (RAs 1.8 and 1.11). To date, although these efforts have had some success in overcoming identified threats and maintaining iBoF Salmon at low population levels (see results of monitoring efforts RA 1.1, 1.2, 2.10), they do not directly address and remedy marine threats themselves. Next steps / recommendations Implement relevant measures in the iBoF Salmon action plan. These measures include, but are not limited to, the characterization of marine mortality, remediation of tidal barriers, monitoring and quantifying bycatch in marine fisheries, improving understanding of marine predation, and investigating and improving the understanding of possible impacts from marine farmed fish aquaculture. As marine threats are better understood, efforts should continue to implement management actions and evaluate the success of these to overcome identified threats Continue annual monitoring of adult salmon returns in index rivers, and monitoring in other priority rivers, as one of the means to evaluate this performance indicator In the interim, efforts should continue to implement, periodically review, evaluate and adapt the activities of the LGB program, as well as the FNP and the Petitcodiac River marine rearing projects as a means of overcoming marine threats
8) Extent and status of the habitat inventory (that is, amount, location and condition of freshwater habitat in all iBoF rivers)	Partially met; underway	Comments The extent and status of all iBoF Salmon freshwater habitat has not been comprehensively or systematically evaluated and inventoried over the reporting period. Several projects have focused on monitoring and assessing the freshwater habitat (for example, water quality and habitat connectivity) in specific rivers (for example, Stewiacke River [RA 2.2 and 2.3], Petitcodiac River [RA 2.4 to 2.7] and Cornwallis River [RA 2.8]. Other projects have assessed and mapped potential barriers to fish passage (for example, Salmon River, Colchester and the Folly River [RA 3.21]), and audited newly installed culverts (for example, iBoF watershed in NS [RA 3.22]). Next steps / recommendations Make efforts to establish an inventory to comprehensively and systematically track the extent and status of freshwater habitat in iBoF rivers. Update the inventory annually with new information to inform 5-year reporting and recovery planning (for example, remediation projects to improve habitat quality and quantity) Implementing iBoF Salmon action plan recovery measures aimed at inventorying the freshwater habitat (quality and quantity) and mapping and prioritizing sites for remediation, is recommended
9) Extent to which habitat quality, in terms of salmon production capabilities, has been assessed	Partially met; underway	Comments Over the reporting period, several projects assessed the freshwater habitat quality in two priority iBoF Salmon rivers: the Stewiacke River in Nova Scotia (NS) (RA 2.2) and the Petitcodiac River in New Brunswick (NB) (RAs 1.17 and 1.18). Other projects have focused on monitoring various aspects of the freshwater habitat: FNP (Point Wolfe and Upper Salmon) undergo annual aquatic ecosystem condition monitoring (RA 1.15) and water quality is monitored annually on the Big Salmon River (RA 1.16). Monitoring of aquatic invasive species, a biological component of the freshwater habitat, has also been conducted on a couple of NS iBoF Salmon watersheds during this reporting period (RA 1.14). While there are past estimates of productive capacity for 22 iBoF rivers, and recent work on assessing juvenile densities in 34 iBoF rivers (RA 1.5), work to assess habitat quality was completed in specific areas only over the reporting period. Comprehensive and up-to-date information on salmon production capabilities relative to freshwater habitat quality in iBoF rivers is lacking. Next steps / recommendations Partnerships and a multi-user approach at maintaining and assessing the freshwater habitat quality including the continued identification, prioritization, and improvement of freshwater habitat quality (action plan recovery measure 22) in priority iBoF Salmon rivers is recommended The periodic assessment of salmon production (juvenile densities) in priority rivers (action plan recovery measure 29) and evaluation against freshwater habitat quality data is recommended.
10) Success of mitigative measures for overcoming identified threats (in freshwater)	Partially met; underway	Comments Much work was undertaken to mitigate identified and emergent (aquatic invasive species) threats in freshwater (table 1a). In some cases, the success of these measures was demonstrated, while in others success was not evaluated or could not be demonstrated. The work contributing to the evaluation of this performance indicator includes: Site-specific habitat restoration projects: Petitcodiac River: The opening of the causeway gates resulted in improved fish passage and environmental conditions (RA 1.17) Site-specific restoration projects helped to increase habitat accessibility and habitat quality (RA 2.5 to RA 2.7) Fish releases in the Little and Pollet Rivers (tributaries) were undertaken to restore the extirpated salmon population (RAs 1.10 and 1.11). The success of these release efforts will take time to fully determine. Stewiacke River: Little River (tributary) restoration project reduced and prevented silt deposits from land-based activities (RA 2.2) and remediated several culverts which improved habitat access (RA 2.3) FNP rivers: Projects to improve aquatic connectivity (RA 3.23) were completed and shown to be effective. Overall connectivity within FNP rivers was significantly improved to a ‘Good’ threshold. The ongoing regulatory review and compliance monitoring of habitat works, undertakings, or activities (RA 3.22) Targeted communication, outreach and education initiatives were undertaken to raise awareness and prompt action to address threats in freshwater habitat (RAs 4.5, 4.10, 4.14, 4.15, and 4.16). Whether or not these efforts resulted in mitigation that successfully overcame freshwater threats could not be assessed. Next steps / recommendations It is difficult to assess at a broad scale whether applied mitigation measures are successful in overcoming threats in freshwater, and therefore whether they contribute to iBoF Salmon recovery. Nonetheless, these efforts are considered worthwhile given that increasing habitat quality and quantity in freshwater is likely to prevent further extirpations and promote self-sustaining salmon populations at low abundances (DFO 2013a); and, is important for long-term iBoF Salmon population sustainability should marine survival improve (DFO 2010). Stewardship, management, outreach, and threat mitigation and abatement activities should continue and be expanded to other priority iBoF Salmon rivers, as outlined in the action plan. The success of implemented measures should be evaluated.
11) Confirmation that the quality and quantity of habitat (freshwater and marine) has been maintained	Partially met; underway	Comments Freshwater environment: There is no broad scale baseline assessment and inventory of habitat quality and quantity in all iBoF rivers against which to measure changes. As well, there was no broad scale effort to determine the status of habitat quality and quantity during the reporting period. As a result, the maintenance of freshwater habitat quality and quantity cannot be confirmed. That said, efforts have been made at smaller, localized scales to monitor and evaluate habitat quality and quantity. FNP watersheds undergo annual aquatic ecosystem condition monitoring. Results confirm that the freshwater quality remains good and trends are stable within FNP streams of the Point Wolfe and Upper Salmon rivers (RA 1.15). Localized habitat quality and/or habitat quantity baselines were established, and in some cases comparisons of past and current conditions were undertaken, in the following priority rivers: Stewiacke River water quality database (RA 2.2), assessment of migration barriers and remediation plan (RA 2.3) Petitcodiac River: Water quality and habitat connectivity have been inventoried at priority sites (RA 2.5 and 2.6) Water quality sampling on the Pollet and Little rivers indicate the presence of good quality habitat for Atlantic Salmon (RA 1.18) Big Salmon River annual surface water quality monitoring results from 2010 to 2015 indicate that the water quality is good (RA 1.16) At a project scale, the DFO Fisheries Protection Program undertakes habitat conformity monitoring to ensure recommended mitigation measures for works, activities and undertakings have been implemented such that habitat quality and quantity is maintained (RA 3.20) Estuarine and marine environment: Important habitat quality attributes in the marine and estuarine environment have been identified for iBoF Salmon (RA 3.7). These include sea surface temperature, salinity, water flow, water depth/volume, and forage species and predator abundance. Information prior to 2010 indicated that habitat within an acceptable temperature range for iBoF Salmon appears to be available for much of the year. No analysis on sea-surface temperature or other marine habitat attributes as it relates to iBoF Salmon habitat quality was accomplished during this reporting period. No research or analysis was undertaken during this reporting period to evaluate whether the extent (quantity) of iBoF Salmon marine habitat in the Bay of Fundy has changed Efforts to restore tidal flow and fish passage on the Petitcodiac River (RA 3.18) include annual follow-up environmental monitoring. Results indicate a trend toward returning health (habitat quality) of the river and increased fish access to upstream habitat (habitat quantity) (RA 1.17). Mechanisms developed to minimize the potential impacts from marine net-pen aquaculture on the marine environment surrounding fish farms (for example, RAs 3.25, 3.27, and 3.28) often include periodic monitoring requirements. The effectiveness of these mechanisms in maintaining marine habitat quality and quantity around fish farms was not evaluated during the reporting period. Next steps / recommendations Freshwater environment: Indices to evaluate this performance indicator more comprehensively should be established and implemented Freshwater habitat assessment, remediation, and monitoring (quality and quantity) activities should continue on priority iBoF rivers, and be expanded to other priority iBoF rivers listed in the recovery strategy’s long term target The effectiveness of remediation activities on habitat quality and quantity should be evaluated Estuarine and marine environment: Research and data analysis is needed to better understand long-term changes in environmental conditions (biological, chemical, and physical) in the Bay of Fundy, possible relationships with identified anthropogenic threats, and how both of these factors affect the quality and quantity of marine habitat for iBoF Salmon Research is also needed to better understand spatial and temporal marine habitat use year round (particularly in winter), with a focus on identifying limiting factors and optimal mitigation options Monitoring and reporting measures aimed at maintaining marine environmental quality around fish farms should continue (action plan recovery measure 19), and the effectiveness of these measures should be evaluated The assessment and remediation of tidal barriers should continue with efforts focused on iBoF Salmon critical habitat rivers and other priority rivers as outlined in the recovery strategy (action plan recovery measure 12)
12) Annual status of populations where information is available	Met; ongoing	Comments Annual monitoring and assessment activities were ongoing in several priority LGB-supported iBoF watersheds: Annual assessments of adult returns and smolt production were undertaken on the Big Salmon River, NB and the Gaspereau River, NS (RA 1.1) Annual population monitoring, including counts of returning adults and emigrating smolts, was carried out in FNP rivers (that is, Point Wolfe and Upper Salmon) (RA 1.2) Since 2011, annual monitoring of native fish species (RA 2.5) and of iBoF Salmon releases (RA 2.8) have been undertaken on the Petitcodiac River. While these activities haven’t generated population estimates, they contribute to monitoring the progress toward re-establishing iBoF Salmon in the Petitcodiac river. Monitoring of emigrating smolts was initiated on the Stewiacke River in 2014 (RA 1.3)A range-wide electrofishing survey was undertaken in 2014 to provide an evaluation of the overall status of iBoF Salmon in non-LGB supported rivers (RA 1.5) Next steps / recommendations Assessment activities should continue to focus on: continuing the annual monitoring and population assessment on the Big Salmon River in NB (the index river in NB) continuing the periodic (approximately every 10 years) conduct of range-wide electrofishing surveys in both LGB and non-LBG supported rivers to provide an evaluation of the overall iBoF Salmon population status and trend Annual smolt and adult monitoring activities in the Point Wolfe and Upper Salmon rivers should continue to assess populations in each river and the effectiveness of release strategies Monitoring and assessment work associated with recovery efforts on the Petitcodiac River should track progress and evaluate the effectiveness of recovery measures Assessment activities on the Stewiacke and Gaspereau rivers should continue to provide an evaluation of iBoF Salmon status in NS rivers Monitoring and assessment data should be used to assess trends towards recovery and contribute to informing performance indicator 15 below
13) Non-genetic and non-habitat related threats identified	Not met	Comments Non-genetic and non-habitat related threats to iBoF Salmon are identified in the recovery strategy and include: depressed population phenomena (in both freshwater and marine environments), some aspects of aquaculture interactions with farmed and hatchery salmon (that is, competition with escapees, parasite and disease transfer, modified predator interactions), ecological community shifts and environmental shifts in the marine environment, as well as bycatch in existing fisheries (see also table 1b). Given these threats are already identified, this performance indicator is interpreted as evaluating the extent to which our understanding of these threats has increased. Non-genetic and non-habitat related threats to iBoF Salmon remain poorly understood Performance indicator 6 evaluated the contribution of research toward identifying threats in the marine environment that could be preventing or limiting recovery. Two large pelagic species have been confirmed as predators of iBoF Salmon. A marine threat workshop was held in part to identify further research needs to resolve knowledge gaps (RA 3.24) Next steps / recommendations Undertaking action plan recovery measures aimed at gaining a better understanding of the non-genetic and non-habitat related identified threats to iBoF Salmon is recommended
14) Non-genetic and non-habitat related threats reduced and mitigated	Not met	Comments Non-genetic and non-habitat related threats to iBoF Salmon have been identified, yet their impacts on iBoF Salmon survival and recovery remain poorly understood. The specific actions needed to mitigate these threats are therefore also largely unknown, hence few direct management actions have been taken to reduce or mitigate these threats during the reporting period. Next steps / recommendations Undertaking action plan recovery measures aimed at gaining a better understanding of the non-genetic and non-habitat related identified threats to iBoF Salmon is recommended Appropriate and effective mitigation measures to reduce impacts should then be identified, implemented, and monitored for effectiveness
15) Recovery strategy success, progress towards attaining self-sustainable populations, and the feasibility of recovery have been reviewed as indicated in the strategy	Partially met; underway	Comments This 5-year report evaluates the success of recovery strategy implementation over a five year period. See comments to all performance indicators in this table and the concluding statement in section 4 of this report The feasibility of iBoF Salmon recovery has not been formally reviewed or assessed since the RPA in 2008, although the recovery strategy states that it should be assessed every five years An overall evaluation of progress toward attaining self-sustainable populations across the designatable unit (DU) has not been completed although the recovery strategy states that it should be assessed every five years Using the Big Salmon River as an indicator for the DU, there is no indication that marine survival is improving, and no indication that the population is making progress toward self-sustainability. Annual monitoring results shows that this population continues to persist at low abundance A comprehensive analysis and review of the LGB program on the recovery of the iBoF Salmon population has not yet been completed. However, a framework for the development of a 5-year plan for the LGB program including an assessment of the LGB’s contribution to population status was initiated (RA 3.2) In FNP rivers (Point Wolfe and Upper Salmon) the new marine rearing recovery approach (RA 1.8) was in early stages during this reporting period. Encouraging salmon return and smolt production results had emerged, however, progress towards establishing self-sustaining populations was not yet formally evaluated. Annual monitoring results during the reporting period indicated that these two populations continued to persist at very low abundances Next steps / recommendations Annual monitoring and assessment activities on the Big Salmon River should continue to be used as an indicator for the status of the iBoF Salmon DU Annual monitoring and assessment activities on other priority rivers (that is, Petitcodiac, Gaspereau, Stewiacke) should continue and be evaluated every five years to inform the success of recovery strategies undertaken and progress towards achieving self-sustainable populations Annual monitoring activities and the new recovery approach initiated by PCA for FNP rivers should continue to assess the status of these populations. An evaluation of the effectiveness of the recovery approach taken and progress towards attaining self-sustaining populations should be undertaken every five years A broader overall status of iBoF Salmon DU should be assessed, preferably within a three generation timeframe of iBoF Salmon population recovery work (that is, 15 years). This assessment should evaluate the current status of the DU and both the success of the LGB program and of other recovery approaches undertaken in achieving the recovery strategy objective of re-establishing self-sustaining populations of iBoF Salmon The recovery feasibility of iBoF Salmon should be reviewed as discussed in Section 3.2.4 below
16) Governments, Indigenous peoples, non-government and conservation organizations, other stakeholders, industry and the general public are involved in the planning and conduct of recovery initiatives	Met; ongoing	Comments Many governments, Indigenous groups, non-government and conservation organizations, industry, and the general public were individually, collaboratively, and/or collectively involved in the planning and conduct of iBoF Salmon recovery initiatives over this reporting period. Many are long standing active participants, whereas others have become involved more recently. Recovery activities and the participating parties are fully outlined in table 4. Some specific examples include: DFO leadership on river monitoring and assessments in two priority index rivers (Big Salmon River in NB and Gaspereau River in NS) (RA 1.1), research on marine habitat use (RA 1.12 and table 5), and operations of the LGB program (RA 3.1) DFO leadership on various Species at Risk Act (SARA) program activities (RAs 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, 3.11, and 3.12) and various communication/outreach activities (RAs 4.10, 4.17, 4.18, 4.19 and 4.20) DFO leadership of the iBoF Salmon Recovery Team and Planning Group (RA 3.30 and 3.31 respectively) and the establishment of a new advisory committee to the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans to advise more broadly on eastern Canadian wild Atlantic Salmon issues (RA 3.32) PCA’s leadership on recovery activities within FNP rivers, including annual monitoring in FNP rivers (RA 1.2), a multi-partner collaborative marine rearing project (RA 1.8), and various communication/outreach initiatives (RAs 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, 4.24, and 4.25) Leadership and collaboration of Indigenous organizations, such as Fort Folly First Nation (FFFN), the Mi’kmaw Conservation Group, and the Maritime Aboriginal Peoples Council, in various iBoF Salmon recovery activities in both NB and NS iBoF rivers with much focus on the Petitcodiac River in NB and the Stewiacke River in NS (RAs 1.1, 1.2, 1.5, 1.8, 1.9, 1.10, 1.11, 2.1, 2.3, 2.5, 4.1, 4.3, 4.5, 4.7, and 4.15) Provincial government leadership on various programs, such as Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture (NSDFA) surveys of, and mitigation against, aquatic invasive species in iBoF watersheds (for example, RA 1.14 and 3.16) and New Brunswick Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries (NBDAAF) work on the farm fish escape management framework (RA 3.27) Non-government groups’ efforts with watercourse enhancement and restoration initiatives in both NB and NS iBoF rivers (RAs 2.2, 2.4, 2.7, 2.6, and 4.8) ASF’s focus on broader wild Atlantic Salmon conservation issues has advanced research and conservation on priority iBoF Salmon issues (RAs 4.9 and 4.11) Industry’s undertaking of activities related either directly or indirectly with iBoF Salmon recovery, such as ACFFA’s collaboration on sea lice management on fish farms (RA 3.25 and 3.26) and their collaboration with FFFN and PCA on marine rearing projects (RA 1.8 and 1.11), as well as NSPI’s contributions to monitoring and LGB Program activities on the Gaspereau River (RAs 1.1 and 3.1.1) Next steps / recommendations The continued involvement of existing partners and engagement of new partners in iBoF Salmon recovery efforts is recommended The continued use of partner and multi-stakeholder forums and advisory bodies is recommended to share information, tools, ideas, and best practices in a collaborative, coordinated approach; and to address specific issues or undertake specific projects for the survival and recovery of iBoF Salmon Groups are encouraged to continue to build their capacity and expertise, and to communicate their efforts to educate and raise awareness among their communities and the general public Efforts should continue to be focused on priority rivers and partners are encouraged to undertake or get involved in the recovery measures outlined in the iBoF Salmon action plan
17) Relevant partners and stakeholders are aware of how their actions potentially affect iBoF Salmon	Met; ongoing	Comments Specific efforts have been made to make relevant partners and stakeholders aware of how their actions potentially affect iBoF Salmon (for example, RA 4.16 and RA 4.10). More broadly, the number and extent of outreach efforts presented in the ‘Communication, Outreach and Education’ section of table 4 suggests that partner and stakeholders are being made aware of how their actions potentially affect iBoF Salmon. The breadth and diversity of groups participating on the recovery team and involved in iBoF Salmon recovery efforts is also an indicator of relevant partner and stakeholder awareness Next steps / recommendations As outlined in the action plan, communication, outreach, and educational activities should continue and new tools should be explored to encourage compliance among those engaged in activities impacting iBoF Salmon and its habitat, as well as voluntary stewardship actions that would benefit the species Methods to measure relevant partner and stakeholder awareness should be developed and implemented
18) Relevant partners and stakeholders are clear on how theSARAis being used to protect iBoF Salmon	Met; ongoing	Comments Partners, stakeholders and the general public have been made aware of how SARA is being used to protect the endangered iBoF Salmon and its habitat through various means and efforts. Broadly, this is demonstrated in many of the RAs in broad strategy 3 and 4 of table 4. More specific examples include: Regulatory review processes and follow-up monitoring for projects and activities affecting iBoF Salmon or its habitat (RAs 3.12, 3.19, and 3.20) Consultations regarding critical habitat protection (RAs 3.4 and 3.6) DFO fishery officers engagement with resource users during patrols (RA 4.10) and installation of signage in recreational angling rivers Education and enforcement efforts by the network of law enforcement in FNP (RA 3.17) Updates on SARA regulatory and management processes provided at Recovery Team meetings (RA 3.30) Promotion and use of SARA funding programs (for example, Habitat Stewardship Program and Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk) that support public involvement in iBoF Salmon recovery initiatives and habitat protection (RA 3.13) Outreach events and materials that raise awareness and educate about the SARA and how it is being used to protect and recover iBoF Salmon (for example, BIO open house events, SARA display room) (RAs 4.18 and 4.19) Next steps / recommendations SARA regulatory and management protection processes, cooperative stewardship initiatives, and education/outreach/communication activities should continue to make partners, stakeholders, and the general public aware how SARA is being used to protect iBoF Salmon and its habitat Methods to measure partner and stakeholder understanding of how SARA is being used to protect iBoF Salmon should be developed and implemented

3.3.2 Completion of action plan

A draft action plan for iBoF Salmon in Canada was developed during this reporting period. The proposed and final versions of this document were not completed during the reporting period, but were published in 2016 and 2019 respectively. The action plan is comprehensive in scope, meaning it will include the recovery measures necessary to address the species’ entire Canadian distribution, and fully implement the recovery strategy by addressing all five recovery objectives. The action plan seeks to build on previous and ongoing activities that address the recovery objectives. See table 4, recovery activity 3.11.

3.3.3 Critical habitat identification and protection

Critical habitat for iBoF Salmon was identified to the extent possible in section 2.5 of the recovery strategy. It includes freshwater critical habitat in ten rivers: Gaspereau, Stewiacke, Debert, Folly, Great Village, Portapique, Economy, Upper Salmon, Point Wolfe and Big Salmon rivers. The recovery strategy also describes the geographic location and biophysical functions, features and attributes of the critical habitat. The recovery strategy acknowledges that further research is needed to identify whether other areas of critical habitat exist, and includes a schedule of studies to identify additional potential critical habitat. Specifically, the schedule of studies outlines investigations that should be undertaken on estuarine and marine habitat usage (for example reconditioning, migration, foraging habitat) as well as an analysis of existing marine distribution data for iBoF Salmon to inform the potential identification of estuarine and marine critical habitat areas.

To advance study 5 of the schedule of studies (table 5), a science peer review process to update and synthesize information on important marine and estuarine habitat for iBoF Salmon was undertaken in November 2012 (table 4 recovery activity 3.7; DFO 2013a). Additional advice to delineate estuarine-marine boundaries in several large, tidal estuaries was provided in 2014 (table 4 recovery activity 3.8; DFO 2015a). This information is being used to identify estuarine and marine critical habitat in an amended recovery strategy (table 4 recovery activity 3.9). Additionally, considerations are being given to include the Petitcodiac River as one containing critical habitat given the changed conditions on this river (table 4 recovery activity 3.10). Other investigations into the marine habitat use, migration, and foraging habitat of iBoF Salmon were completed or in progress during this reporting period (table 4 recovery activity 1.12 and table 5 study #s 1 to 4), but were not available in time to inform the 2012 science review process.

The final recovery strategy for the iBoF Salmon was published on the Species at Risk Public Registry in May 2010. Accordingly, on August 7, 2010, a SARA subsection 58(2) description for those portions of critical habitat within FNP was published in the Canada Gazette Part I thereby invoking the SARA subsection 58(1) prohibition against the destruction of the identified critical habitat (PCA 2010) (table 4 recovery activity 3.4). This prohibition came into effect on November 5, 2010. With respect to the protection of all other critical habitat for the iBoF Salmon outside FNP, DFO began work to establish a SARA subsection 58(4) and (5) Critical Habitat Order during the reporting period. The Critical Habitat Order was completed outside the reporting period in September 2019. The Critical Habitat Order invokes the prohibition in subsequent 58(1) against the destruction of the identified critical habitat (table 4 recovery activity 3.6).

3.3.4 Recovery feasibility

The iBoF Salmon recovery strategy concluded that the recovery of iBoF Salmon is both biologically and technically feasible, with the understanding that population viability (that is, survival) is dependent on the LGB program.

Recovery feasibility was not re-assessed during this reporting period. A review process to assess the LGB’s contribution to the population’s current status was initiated during this reporting period (table 4 recovery activity 3.2), but completed outside this reporting period in 2018 (DFO 2018). The resulting science advisory report is expected to direct the development of a 5-year plan for the LGB program. This new information could inform a re-evaluation of the species’ recovery feasibility in the future.

The Government of Canada is developing new policy on the concept of survival and recovery as applied to SARA and the determination of the feasibility of recovery. A review of iBoF Salmon recovery feasibility under this new policy may be warranted when guidance or criteria become available. In the meantime, and in accordance with the precautionary approach, recovery strategy and action plan implementation efforts should continue under the current determination that recovery is feasible.

4 Concluding statement

The information presented in tables 4 to 6 describes how, and to what extent, the iBoF Salmon recovery strategy was implemented during this reporting period (May 2010 to May 2015). Activities were undertaken in support of the overall recovery goal and all five recovery strategy objectives. Many of the activities have been ongoing for some time, whereas others were initiated toward the end of this reporting period. Several of the activities listed in table 4 were not undertaken for the singular purpose of recovering iBoF Salmon but nonetheless resulted in direct benefits to the population.

Seven of the 18 performance indicators have been met; however, all of these will require ongoing action to maintain and continue to advance the progress made on recovery strategy implementation. Progress is being made towards meeting another nine indicators. Little progress has been made toward meeting performance indicators 13 and 14 which relate to research or activities undertaken to further understand non-genetic and non-habitat related threats, and to implement measures to reduce or mitigate these threats in the marine environment. Understanding these threats is a priority, however undertaking the required research in the large and dynamic Bay of Fundy remains a challenge. Progress over the next five year reporting period is however expected, and some work has already commenced.

Summaries of the progress made toward meeting each of the five recovery strategy objectives, and on critical habitat identification and protection, are presented below followed by an overall conclusion summary.

Objective 1: conserve iBoF Salmon genetic characteristics and re-establish self-sustaining populations in iBoF rivers.

The LGB program continued as the principle means to maintain iBoF Salmon genetic characteristics and river populations. It operated in a manner aimed at minimizing loss of genetic diversity and inbreeding/outbreeding depression in the iBoF Salmon population, and continued to focus on the principle iBoF rivers and on maintaining representative river populations of the Chignecto Bay and Minas Basin in captivity. Plans were initiated for a comprehensive review of the LGB program including an evaluation of whether, and to what extent, both parts of the goal (1) maintain genetic characteristics and (2) re-establish self-sustaining populations in iBoF rivers, have been achieved. Preliminary indications from the monitoring results suggest that the iBoF Salmon population continues to fluctuate at low levels which are not self-sustaining (recovery activities [RAs] 1.1, 1.2, and 1.5). The LGB review is intended to inform a 5-year plan for the program moving forward.

New innovative approaches were initiated to circumvent the high marine mortality and boost-start the reestablishment of self-sustaining populations. These projects, the marine rearing net pen projects in Fundy National Park rivers (RA 1.8) and in the Petitcodiac River (RA 1.11), are providing early signs of promise. Results of these projects will be reported on in the next five year progress report.

Objective 2: identify and remedy anthropogenic threats limiting survival and/or recovery of iBoF Salmon in the marine environment.

Threat identification and mitigation research for iBoF Salmon in the estuarine and marine environment is costly and logistically challenging in the large, dynamic, and turbid Bay of Fundy. Nonetheless, several research projects to better understand iBoF Salmon marine habitat use and threats in the marine environment were undertaken or initiated.

In estuaries, barriers (for example, dams, dykes, causeways, and aboiteaux) remain a challenge to address and a concern that requires future attention. Significant progress occurred with the opening of the causeway gates in the Petitcodiac River estuary in spring 2010. As part of a larger plan to restore fish passage and tidal flow to the river, this activity has led to increased partner and stakeholder engagement in iBoF Salmon recovery efforts on the river.

Long-term changes in environmental conditions in the Bay of Fundy, and the relationships between anthropogenic threats and iBoF Salmon and survival and recovery in the marine environment remain poorly understood. As a result, specific and effective threat mitigation actions remain unknown. Although various fisheries, habitat, and marine net-pen aquaculture management activities have been in place to mitigate identified threats and minimize potential impacts, further monitoring and study is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of these measures, and to understand whether and how these management activities affect iBoF Salmon survival and recovery. Measures to address research needs and threat identification and mitigation in the estuarine and marine environment are included in the action plan and will be reported on in the next five year progress report.

Objective 3: identify and remedy anthropogenic threats limiting survival and/or recovery of iBoF Salmon in the freshwater environment.

Most stewardship recovery projects are occurring in the freshwater environment where threats are better understood and more readily assessed and addressed. Efforts have primarily been site-specific and aimed at improving habitat quality and quantity. Many projects were led by external partners and focused on priority iBoF rivers, mainly the Petitcodiac in NB and the Stewiacke in NS. Projects included both focused habitat and culvert remediation projects, as well as freshwater habitat inventory work for future site remediation initiatives. These efforts should continue and be expanded to other priority rivers, primarily those identified as containing critical habitat, and secondarily to other priority rivers as outlined in the recovery strategy and the action plan.

Freshwater habitat-quality monitoring projects undertaken in select rivers have confirmed good water quality for Atlantic Salmon production; however, activities that impact water quantity and quality continue to occur in iBoF rivers and streams. Monitoring of iBoF Salmon freshwater habitat should therefore continue to detect changes, identify future restoration needs, inform mitigation measures, and evaluate the effectiveness of recovery measures. Specific measures required to address threats in freshwater are outlined in the action plan.

Objective 4: assess population status, sustainability and recovery feasibility.

DFO and PCA, assisted by partners, undertook annual monitoring of iBoF Salmon population status on several priority rivers (Big Salmon River, Point Wolfe River, and Upper Salmon River, NB, and Gaspereau River in NS). Partner-led monitoring was undertaken or initiated in other priority iBoF rivers (Fort Folly First Nation in the Petitcodiac River, and Mi’kmaw Conservation Group in the Stewiacke River). The broadscale juvenile electrofishing survey undertaken in 2014 provided an update to the one completed in the early 2000s.

Results from these monitoring activities indicate that populations continue to persist at low levels in rivers receiving LGB support and in a few other non-LGB supported rivers. Monitoring in index rivers, and periodic broadscale electrofishing surveys in both LGB and non-LGB supported rivers, should continue. These efforts provide the information needed to assess trends in status of river-specific populations as an indicator of DU status, the success of implemented recovery measures, and progress towards recovery.

COSEWIC re-assessed the status of iBoF Salmon in 2010 and re-confirmed its status as endangered. This re-assessment is based on information from COSEWIC 2006 and a 2008 estimate for the DU. A comprehensive up-to-date status assessment for the iBoF Salmon DU has not been completed since 2008, and an overall returning adult abundance estimate for the entire DU has not been accomplished since 1999. The LGB review will provide an indication of the species’ current status, but an updated overall adult population assessment (particularly a DU abundance estimate) would be informative for both recovery planning and management decisions. It will also inform both the development of the amended recovery strategy and the next iBoF Salmon COSEWIC re-assessment scheduled for November 2022.

Based on the iBoF Salmon’s population status, threats to its survival and recovery, and analysis of progress to date towards achieving self-sustaining populations, it is uncertain whether the overall recovery goal and objectives for iBoF Salmon remain relevant and achievable. Despite recovery efforts to date, there have been ongoing range-wide river-specific extirpations and ongoing low abundances, even in LGB-supported rivers. The survival of the population has, however, been maintained. The recovery feasibility of iBoF Salmon should be re-evaluated, particularly when new guidance or criteria become available. In the meantime, and in accordance with the precautionary approach, recovery strategy and action plan implementation efforts should continue on the premise that recovery is feasible. These measures, including the implementation of LGB review recommendations, will support the species’ survival and help progress towards its recovery.

Objective 5: communicate and increase the awareness of the status and recovery of iBoF Salmon.

Numerous communication, outreach, and education focused activities for both targeted and general audiences have been undertaken during this reporting period. These efforts have helped raise awareness of the endangered status of iBoF Salmon, the known and potential effects of human activities on iBoF Salmon, and the use of SARA to protect the species and its habitat. Information about recovery activities has also been communicated at recovery team meetings, via websites, and in the media. These efforts have allowed experiences to be shared, further raised the species’ profile, and encouraged others to care or become actively involved in iBoF Salmon recovery efforts.

Critical habitat: identification and protection

There has been progress in both the identification and protection of critical habitat for iBoF Salmon. Critical habitat protection under SARA has been established for those portions of critical habitat within FNP, and DFO also made progress towards establishing a Critical Habitat Order for the remaining identified critical habitat during the reporting period. The Order was completed outside the reporting period in September 2019. Since identification, iBoF Salmon critical habitat has also been protected using the provision afforded under the Fisheries Act. Several studies identified in the critical habitat schedule of studies were either completed or are in progress (table 5). This information is being used to inform the identification of estuarine and marine critical habitat, and a revised schedule of studies, in an amended recovery strategy. Consideration has also been initiated to identify the Petitcodiac River as containing critical habitat.

Conclusion summary

Progress was made toward implementing the iBoF Salmon recovery strategy during this first 5-year reporting period (May 2010 to May 2015). However, the overall recovery goal “to re-establish wild, self-sustaining populations as required to conserve the genetic characteristics of the remaining anadromous iBoF Atlantic Salmon” has yet to be achieved. Remaining river populations persist at low abundances and are dependent on the LGB program for their continued survival. The work started and completed to date has nonetheless built a strong foundation for continued research, recovery efforts and successful management of this species going forward.

Efforts should continue to focus on priority rivers and the LGB program should continue with adjustments made as informed by research and monitoring and the outcomes of the 2017 LGB review. Work in the estuarine and marine environment also remains a priority to better understand, identify, and mitigate threats to iBoF Salmon in iBoF river and coastal estuaries and the entire Bay of Fundy outward to the border of the northern Gulf of Maine.

DFO and PCA continued to lead important iBoF Salmon monitoring, assessment, research, management, protection, and communication activities within their geographic and mandated areas of responsibility. Provincial governments, Indigenous groups, conservation organizations, stakeholders, and industry groups were actively involved in the planning and conduct of many iBoF Salmon recovery initiatives. Their continued and expanded involvement in iBoF Salmon recovery efforts, as well as that of new partners, is encouraged. All partners are encouraged to explore new and innovative approaches and partnering arrangements for iBoF Salmon recovery. Groups are also encouraged to share the outcomes of their work, increase their knowledge base and capacity, and explore collaborative opportunities through continued participation in partner and multi-stakeholder forums and advisory committees. DFO and PCA will continue to work with partners at implementing the direction and actions set out in the recovery strategy and action plan.

5. References

Amiro, P.G. 2001. COSEWIC status report on the Atlantic salmon Salmo salar (Inner Bay of Fundy populations) in Canada, in COSEWIC assessment and status report on the Atlantic salmon Salmo salar (Inner Bay of Fundy populations) in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. 1-52 pp.
Carr, J., Trial, J., Sheehan, T., Gibson, J., Giffin, G. Meerburg, D. 2015. Proceedings of the Symposium: What Works? A Workshop on the Wild Atlantic Salmon Recovery Programs [PDF 53.8 MB]. Atlantic Salmon Federation, St. Andrews, New Brunswick, Canada, 310 pp.
Clarke, C. N., D. J. Fraser and C. F. Purchase. 2016. Lifelong and carry-over effects of early captive exposure in a recovery program for Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar). Animal Conservation. doi: 10.1111/acv.12251
COSEWIC (Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada). 2006. COSEWIC assessment and status report on the Atlantic salmon Salmo salar (Inner Bay of Fundy populations) in Canada. [PDF 1.9 KB] Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. vi + 52 pp.
COSEWIC (Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada). 2010. COSEWIC assessment and status report on the Atlantic Salmon [PDF 2.7 MB] Salmo salar (Nunavik population, Labrador population, Northeast Newfoundland population, South Newfoundland population, Southwest Newfoundland population, Northwest Newfoundland population, Quebec Eastern North Shore population, Quebec Western North Shore population, Anticosti Island population, Inner St. Lawrence population, Lake Ontario population, Gaspé-Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence population, Eastern Cape Breton population, Nova Scotia Southern Upland population, Inner Bay of Fundy population, Outer Bay of Fundy population) in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. xvii + 136 pp.
De Mestral, L.G., O'Reilly, P.T., Jones, R., Flanagan, J., and C.M. Herbinger, C.M. 2013. Preliminary assessment of the environmental and selective effects of a captive breeding and rearing program for endangered Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar. Fisheries Management and Ecology 20(1), 75-89.
DFO (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). 2008. Recovery potential assessment for inner Bay of Fundy salmon [PDF 507 KB]. DFO Can. Sci. Adv. Stock Status Rep. 2008/050.
DFO (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). 2010. Recovery Strategy for the Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar), inner Bay of Fundy populations [PDF 1.2 KB]. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy Series. Ottawa: Fisheries and Oceans Canada. xiii + 58 pp. + Appendices.
DFO (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). 2013a. Important marine and estuarine habitat of inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon. DFO Can. Sci. Advis. Sec. Sci. Advis. Rep. 2013/054.
DFO (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). 2013b. Recovery Potential Assessment for Southern Upland Atlantic Salmon. DFO Can. Sci. Advis. Sec. Sci. Advis. Rep. 2013/009.
DFO (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). 2015a. Support for Delineation of Inner Bay of Fundy Salmon Marine Critical Habitat Boundaries in Minas Basin and Chignecto Bay. DFO Can. Sci. Advis. Sec. Sci. Resp. 2015/035.
DFO (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). 2015b. Guidelines for the design of fish passage for culverts in Nova Scotia [PDF 13.9 MB]. Fisheries Protection Program, Maritimes Region, 95 pp.
DFO (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). 2018. Review of the Science Associated with the Inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon Live Gene Bank and Supplementation Programs. DFO Can. Sci. Advis. Sec. Sci. Advis. Rep. 2018/041.
DFO (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). 2019. Action Plan for the Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar), inner Bay of Fundy populations in Canada [Proposed] DFO (Fisheries and Oceans Canada). 2015b. Guidelines for the design of fish passage for culverts in Nova Scotia. Fisheries Protection Program, Maritimes Region, 95 pp.. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy Series. Ottawa: Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Ottawa. vi + 58 pp.
Doelle, M. and W. Lahey. 2014. The Final Report of the Independent Aquaculture Regulatory Review for Nova Scotia [PDF 1.4 KB]. Schulich School of Law, Dalhousie University. 147pp.
Environment and Climate Change Canada. 2015. Canadian Environmental Sustainability Indicators: Data Sources and Methods for the Freshwater Quality in Canadian Rivers Indicator [PDF 2.1 MB].
Evans, M.L., N.F. Wilke, P.T. O’Reilly, and I.A. Fleming. 2014. Transgenerational Effects of Parental Rearing Environment Influence the Survivorship of Captive-Born Offspring in the Wild. Conservation Letters, 7: 371–379. doi: 10.1111/conl.12092
Gibson, A.J.F., E.A. Halfyard, R.G. Bradford, M.J.W. Stockesbury, and A.M. Redden. 2015. Effects of predation on telemetry-based survival estimates: insights from a study on endangered Atlantic salmon smolts. Can. J. Fish. Aquat. Sci. 72: 728-741.
Government of Canada. 2002. Species at Risk Act, S.C. 2002, c.29.
Houde, A.L., Fraser, D.J., O’Reilly, P., and J.A. Hutchings. 2011. Relative risks of inbreeding and outbreeding depression in the wild in endangered salmon. Evolutionary Applications 4(5), 634-647.
Hunka, R. J., J. McNeely, S. Denny, G. Paul Boyle. A. Nibby Woods. 2010. Species at Risk: leave no footprint. Maritime Aboriginal Peoples Council. 81pp.
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Lacroix, G.L. 2014. Large pelagic predators could jeopardize the recovery of endangered Atlantic salmon. Can. J. Fish. Aquat. Sci. 2014, 71(3): 343-350
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Maritime Aboriginal Peoples Council and Congress of Aboriginal Peoples. Youth Salmon Habitat Ambassadors: Inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon River Awareness Project Final Report. March 31, 2013.
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Mi’kma’ki All Points Services. 2013. Mi’kmaw and the Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) in Mainland Nova Scotia. AFSAR Project#1954. 35pp.
Mi’kmaw Conservation Group. 2015. [Editor A. Sherry]. Assessment of Potential Migration Barriers to endangered Atlantic Salmon in the Stewiacke watershed. 22pp.
Minister’s Advisory Committee on Atlantic Salmon. July 2015. A special report on wild Atlantic Salmon in eastern Canada. [PDF 7.7 MB] 63pp.
O’Reilly, P.T. and C. Kozfkay. 2014. Use of microsatellite data and pedigree information in the genetic management of two long-term salmon conservation programs. Reviews in Fish Biology and Fisheries 24(3): 819-848.
PCA. 2010. Description of critical habitat of the inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon in Fundy National Park of Canada. Canada Gazette 144(32):2160-2161.
PCA. 2015. Summary of ecological monitoring, restoration and applied science projects at Fundy National Park 2015. 76pp. [available from Park Canada]
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Appendix A : Inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon Conservation and Recovery Team. Membership during this reporting period (May 2010 to May 2015).

Organization	Current Members
AMEC Earth and Environmental Inc. and New Brunswick Salmon Council	Bagnall, John
Aquaculture Association of Nova Scotia	Goodfellow, Danielle
Atlantic Canada Fish Farmers Association	House, Betty
Atlantic Salmon Federation	Carr, Johnathan (Research and Environment) Giffin, Geoff (Regional Programs) Hinks, Lewis (Nova Scotia Programs) Wilbur, Nathan (New Brunswick Programs)
Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq, Mi’kmaw Conservation Group	Coppaway, Clayton Gillis, Angeline Kavanagh, Sana
DFO – Aquaculture Management	Cline, Jeff Webster, Cindy
DFO – Conservation and Protection	Bieren, Stacey Gaudet, Odette Smith, Vincent
DFO - Communications	Taylor, Suzanne
DFO – Policy and Economics	Large, Cory
DFO – Resource Management	Stevens, Greg
DFO – Science	Claytor, Ross Whitelaw, John (Mactaquac Biodiversity Facility) Lenentine, Beth (Coldbrook Biodiversity Facility) Jones, Ross O’Neil, Shane O’Reilly, Patrick
DFO – Species at Risk Management	Robichaud-LeBlanc, Kimberly
DFO – Area Director Office SWNB	Millar, Harvey (Chair)
DFO – Aboriginal Fisheries	Howe, Tom
DFO Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program	Savoie, Fernand (New Brunswick) Devine, Richard (Nova Scotia)
Fort Folly First Nation	Epworth, Wendy (Habitat Recovery Program) Robinson, Tim (Habitat Recovery Program)
J.D. Irving Limited	Gilbert, John
Kings County Wildlife Association	Cook, Scott
Maritime Aboriginal Peoples Council	Hunka, Roger McNeely, Joshua (IKANAWTIKET)
Nashwaak Watershed Association Inc.	Salonius, Peter
New Brunswick Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries	Coombs, Karen
New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council	Wysote, Nathalie
NS Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture	LeBlanc, Jason
Nova Scotia Power	Walmsley, Jay
Nova Scotia Salmon Association	Purcell, Carl
Parks Canada Agency, Fundy National Park	Clarke, Corey Daigle, Edouard Mazerolle, Daniel John Whitelaw and Becky Graham (after 2015)
Petitcodiac Sportman’s Club	Whitehead, Ron

Footnote 1

Conservation levels: the number of Salmon required to produce an egg deposition of 2.4 eggs/m² of habitat; a value thought to optimize juvenile production in freshwater.

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Footnote 2

The causeway gates on the Petitcodiac River were opened in April 2010 as part of the second stage of a three-stage strategy and long-term plan to restore tidal flow and fish passage on the Petitcodiac River. See further details under recovery activity 3.18 in table 4.

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Footnote 3