News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Natural Resources Minister John Herron is calling for more specific steps and faster action to be taken by the federal government, following the release of Canada’s first conservation strategy for Atlantic salmon.

“I am pleased that then-minister Diane Lebouthillier heard our concerns in New Brunswick and was successful in the release of the strategy,” said Herron. “There is still an urgent need, not only for immediate and concrete action, but also for a more robust financial commitment from the federal government to ensure its implementation.”

Herron met with Lebouthillier – the former federal minister of fisheries and oceans – in early February and called on the government to finalize the strategy. Joanne Thompson was sworn in as the new federal minister last Friday, a day after the strategy was made public.

The document outlines four strategic outcomes over the next 12 years, with the aim to “create the conditions necessary for Atlantic salmon and the Atlantic salmon community to thrive.”

Herron said this goal is important, as it recognizes the socio-cultural and economic importance of salmon, as well as the valuable contributions of the conservation community.

The strategy also states, “Canadians are willing to invest more in the conservation of Atlantic salmon, compared to any other aquatic species at risk in the country.”

The federal government has invested $6.1 million, with a further commitment of $1 million for the 2025-26 fiscal year, to support new projects that will focus on Atlantic salmon conservation.

“The strategy recognizes that the needs of Atlantic salmon vary, which is important, and it proposes an area-based approach to restoration on a river-by-river basis,” said Herron. “What is lacking is the same financial commitment and investment we saw in the Pacific salmon strategy. We need transformative investments in the areas of conservation, stewardship, salmon enhancement and stock rebuilding.”

Herron said collective effort and action is needed, and that his department will continue its work with stakeholders to ensure the survival of the iconic fish.