Understanding stakeholder perspectives on aquatic invasive species management in the Margaree Valley to support improved local watershed management

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are of great to concern to fisheries managers and those who enjoy fisheries resources, such as anglers. In Nova Scotia, small mouth bass were introduced in the 1940s by provincial fisheries managers in the hopes of creating recreational fishing opportunities. These fish are efficient predators that predate upon and outcompete native species. Their growing populations threaten native species and aquatic biodiversity in the western portion of the province. In 2024, the province began require the mandatory retention (and humane euthanasia) of small mouth bass in the Margaree River watershed, an area prized for its Atlantic salmon fishing. But public reception of the retention policy is mixed, and it is unknown how people are using retained bass. This project will investigate perceptions of AIS management, control, and retention in the Margaree River watershed as held by anglers and other fisheries stakeholders. The insights gained will be the first of their kind in Nova Scotia, where human dimensions research on freshwater AIS is limited. They will also offer insights into how management approaches to AIS are received, how retained fish are used, and what next steps might be effective in preventing further spread of small mouth bass.

Faculty Supervisor:

Hannah Harrison

Student:

Partner:

Margaree Salmon Association

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Dalhousie University

Program: