The Renews River Conservation Association has been awarded the 2007 Guenter Behr Salmonid Conservation award by the Salmonid Association of Eastern Newfoundland (SAEN) for its work in preserving and rebuilding salmon stocks in the Renews River and watershed. Renews river is located approximately 90 kilometres from St. John’s and is home for both Atlantic salmon and sea run brown trout. Since the creation of the group in February 2005 they have had tremendous success with their efforts to “Take Back the River.” Historically the Renews river has supported excellent populations of salmon and trout but since the closure of the salmon fishery it is apparent that the stocks have been on the decline within the river system.
As a result, a group of over 35 volunteers rallied together to increase public education through newsletters, public meetings, fun days, erection of mission statements and increased signage and presence on the river and the introduction of the ASF Fish Friends Program in the local school to help address the declining stocks.
One of the greatest achievements of the group to date was the initiation of a five year study by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans of brown trout on this watershed. This is an important study as there is limited information gathered pertaining to brown trout and their habitat and interaction with Wild Atlantic Salmon. In addition to brown trout, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans hopes to learn more about predators in the area and water analysis.
“The Renews River Conservation Association is a model for other salmon and trout conservations organizations to look up to” stated Greg Billard, SAEN President. “I can’t imagine a more dedicated or effective group of volunteers.”
This is the 28th presentation of the Guenter Behr Salmonid Conservation Award to individuals or organization who have demonstrated outstanding conservation or protection activities related to our trout and salmon stocks. Guenter Behr was a founding member of SAEN and one of the organizations most dedicated conservationists. The award is presented annually in his memory.
